Guides

Our friendly and professional guides will show you the beauty of this fantastic continent and explain the nature, history and culture of the land and its people. The guides are well trained, experienced and enthusiastic professionals dedicated to providing you with the holiday of a lifetime in Africa. They are licensed with both the Field Guides Association of South Africa (FGASA) and the South African Department of Environment and Tourism (DEAT) and are fully trained in First Aid.
Their knowledge of their home region, local conditions, the African bush and their willingness to share this knowledge ensures that your safari is enjoyable and successful.

We'd like to introduce you to some of the Sunway team...

THEMBA SIBANDA
Born in Gwanda south of Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, Themba grew up in a rural environment until he moved to Bulawayo were he finished his education. Having been born into a family of teachers, his desire was to do something totally different but was it really guiding? Themba tried out a new guiding course that his collage offered and was hooked on the bush and never looked back. He started guiding in 1996 in Hwange National Park and his passion for nature increased even more, and since guided in many reserves al over Southern Africa. Themba believes a genuine love for nature and understanding people’s interest is the key to being a great guide.
OUR CONDOLENCES: On Thursday 24Sep09, Themba tragically drowned in the Zambezi River. Our thoughts and hearts are with his family and friends. He will be missed by all of us at Sunway Safaris - the Sunway Team.

SHANDLE UBISI
Shandle, hails from Mpumalanga province close to Kruger National Park and guides tours for Sunway Safaris in South Africa.
Shandle's knowledge of indigenous languages and cultures gives fantastic insight into every day South African lifestyle. His knowledge of the fauna and flora in Kruger National Park is very good.
SOUTH AFRICA TOUR:"Shandle took us to his Shangaan village which we really enjoyed." - Thi Luu, United States
SOUTH AFRICA TOUR:"Shandle was hardworking and a really good guy." - Monika Mann, United States
CAPE TO VIC FALLS TOUR:”First of all I want to say many, many thanks to you and your company. Me and my boyfriend enjoyed one of our best trips ever with 2 of your colleagues, a great group and a perfect equipped Safari Truck (cape to vic falls 16.05.07). Gavin and Shandle were absolutely well organized, had a huge knowledge of flora/fauna and made us always feel safe. We will keep this holiday as a fantastic experience in our mind! We seriously thinking of booking the Mosambique tour in april 2009. But I can't wait to be back in Africa, so me and a friend of mine would really like to join one of your '17 days South Africa' tours this year. One special question about the guides composition. I'm sure all of your guides make a good job and they all got nice feedback on your website. But we would be very pleased, if it's possible to arrange the guidance by Gavin and Shandle. It's one of the main aspects, why the group enjoyed the last trip so much, and you would do us a great favour if they can guide us again! Thanks again and best wishes.” Verena Dresing, Germany.
SOUTH AFRICA CABIN TOUR:”Hi Shaun, It's been a while since my trip but I had to gush about it and especially about your guides. I went on the Rainbow Route on March 29 and it was easily the best trip I've ever taken and one of the best experiences of my life. I thought it was wonderfully organized. The itinerary covered amazing places and focused on scenery and game rather than cities, which is what I like and what is most worth your time in SA. The scenic locations of some of the accommodation added so much to the trip and really made you feel like you were extremely fortunate to be there. There was a great balance between there being lots of inclusions so you don't have to worry about any planning, but the group being small enough and the guides accommodating enough for it to feel like you were just traveling with a group of friends. I was really impressed with how well the structure worked, for example the way meals were done.
Gavin and Shandle were absolutely spectacular. Gavin was exceedingly professional and had a great manner about him, whereby he always had things planned and under control and yet was extremely laid back and fun to be around. He was a really good guy and I was impressed with how attuned he was to people's needs, even after knowing them for only a few days. Shandle was an absolute joy to be around and a great sport. He added so much to the group dynamic and was a phenomenal cook!
Both Gavin and Shandle were very knowledgeable and hard-working and largely made the trip the success it was. I am considering going on another Sunway trip next year and if they are still around I intend to request them. I hope that will be possible because the possibility of having them as guides again is a major factor in me wanting to return to Sunway." Moriah Shemer, UK.
SOUTH AFRICA RAINBOW ROUTE:”Hello, I just returned from a great holiday. It was a faultless trip thanks to your organisation and our guides Shandle and Vusie. Shandle has to be the best tour leader and bush cook in S.A. They both made a great team and their combined knowledge of the country, animals, customs and languages (both African and European) was priceless. Both were very hard workers - even after strenuous hikes they still found the energy to start cooking a delicious meal (with a little help from us of course) and spend time with us laughing and talking through the evening. We've become great friends and we hope to keep in touch. The highlight was definitely Lesotho, but everything else came a pretty close second - the scenery, the animals, the people,... The variety in accommodation was just right - the holiday definitely value for money. Thank you all for helping to make this a memorable holiday for us! Jane and Pierre-Alain Bolomey, UK.

MESHACK CHUNDA
Meshack was born in Tembisa, near Johannesburg. He grew up in Mzimba, (in the north of Malawi) and has been guiding for three years now. When asked what his funniest experience has been in the bush he replied “being charged by a hippo”. You will have to ask him about that as it doesn't sound funny! Meshack enjoys soccer and always has big smile to greet you.
VICTORIA FALLS TO KENYA TOUR:"Pieter and Meshack are outstanding guides. They are always helpful, patient, friendly and hardworking – a pleasure to have traveled with them." – Helen O’Brien, Melbourne Australia
CAPE to VICTORIA FALLS " Got home last night from my tour with Sunway (Cape town to Victoria Falls) and would like to share and show my appreciation to the guides Axel and Mescheck, their professionalism, their knowledge about the bush, the animals, the African culture. It was great ! Please thank them again, from all members of our group!" - Chantal Van Houtryve, Belgium.
SOUTH AFRICA SCENIC ROUTE: :"My second safari tour with Sunway ended 2 days ago, am back at work and still have the feeling it's time to fold my tent and prepare for the next game drive.... ;-) So again I would like to say a big 'thank you', especially to Meshack and Albert who made this trip so unforgettable. Both worked absolutely perfect as a team and did their best to give us a really exciting and enjoyable time in South Africa. They were always the first who awoke in the morning and the last who went to bed and I know it's definitely hard work to fulfill everybody's needs and expectations - but they did a great job! Very professional, but always relaxed and with a big smile on their faces (and as you know, their laughs are so contagious :-)) Although Albert is still in his 'trainee' phase, I'm absolutely impressed about his chef talents and always felt safe while driving with him. I'm sure, he's well on his way to become an indispensable guide for Sunway. And of course I won't forget Meshack's stories about 'beeing charged by hippos, lions, elephants....', he was always a fun to be around. We all learned so much about life & wildlife in this country and enjoyed every moment. It's always a great pleasure to come back to Southern Africa and these guys (just as Gavin & Shandle with whom I luckily experienced my first trip) contributed considerably to it!...for now I have to save money for Mosambique next year. So thanks again and greetings to Meshack, Albert, Gavin & Shandle next time they turn up at your office.” Verena Dresing, Germany.

DAVID BEADLE
David grew up in Johannesburg, the son of a British father and a German mother. After spending most of his school holidays travelling with his family, he matriculated from the Johannesburg German school and left for Europe to complete his German national service in the German military. He’s still a little uptight but we think he’ll relax in the long run...
He then trundled around most of Europe, America, Canada and Mexico, had a short stint in Hong Kong and then saw much of Southern Africa where he realised that Africa is the best place on earth. So he promptly obtained numerous guiding qualifications and mechanical experience and dived straight into tour leading. He loves the bush, camping and meeting new people, which is part of the reason I became a guide (We hope they feel the same way!). He enjoys a variety of sports, reading and good music but there is nothing he loves more than travelling around Africa, sitting around the camp fire with a beer and some good conversation.
CAPE TO VIC FALLS EXPLORER: Sept/Oct 08 "It was an unforgettable tour for us, Dave has knew to bring home it really to us the nature and many animals. He and Sydney conjured every evening really food. We would be glad very much if we may go away on one of our next tours again with the both. Again many thanks to the both" - Mike & Diana and Hans & Heidi from Chemnitz Germany
BOTSWANA WILDPARKS TOUR:"David, Charl and the company are to be complimented for providing our group with a wonderful experience." – July Warrell, Mount Waverley, Australia
MOZAMBIQUE BEACH & BUSH TOUR "Dave was excellent, well beyond the call of duty" – Han de Jong, Ireland.
CAPE TO WINDHOEK DESERT TOUR”Describing Dave is not difficult - funny, enthusiastic and passionate for his job, and 110% reliable! Dave is an excellent cook, I could imagine him opening an African Restaurant in his next life, where he can spend 24 hours a day cooking.” - Bianca Lottmann & Ralf Schmücker, Germany
CAPE – VIC FALLS EXPLORER TOUR:"Hello from Germany!
Many thanks for this unforgettable vacation. We had a great time with our friendly and helpful guides Dave and Jerry. Dave left no question unanswered and spoilt us with culinary pleasures, while Jerry fulfilled always in a good mood our wishes and woke up us in the morning on time! We had a lot of fun with Jerrys stunts! Kind regards to both, Claudia & Olaf - Germany
CAPE – VIC FALLS EXPLORER TOUR:" Hello, I was a guest of the Cape to Vic-Tour started on 21st November last year, guided by Dave, Jerry and Oscar. I would like to say a great "Tank you" to all the guides. Every moment I felt well-informed, secure and being cared by the guides. Dave is a superior guide, the way he managed the tour was great. He told us very interesting stories about the animals and the plants around us. The meals he cooked were delicious, especially the springbokk-stew ;-) and the cooked breakfast. This was the best journey I ever made, so I recommended this tour to a colleague. Great thanks to all, Sabine Loser” – Germany.
CAPE – VIC FALLS EXPLORER TOUR:" We'll make use of email, to give an extraordinary thank you to Dave Beadle, who guided us the tour Cape Town - Vic Falls Nov.5th - Nov 25th'09. He made it an unforgettable experience due to his enthusiasm, his knowledge and experience, his excellent cooking and his personal charm. He contributed very much to our total satisfaction with this holiday. Many Thanks also to his partner Chris, always being hepful in many things. Kind regards from Monika and Andreas Berger, Dresden, Germany.”

PIETER BEZUIDENHOUT
Pieter was born in the friendly city of Bloemfontein. He grew up in the Eastern Cape and Paarl, near Cape Town. Before joining Sunway, Pieter worked for three years as a river guide on the Gariep River (between South Africa and Namibia) while studying Tourism Management. His favourite sport is rugby, both playing and watching it (yes – typically Afrikaans!). He also enjoys adventure activities such as river rafting, bungi jumping, and has an interest in photography. Perhaps he could combine the two on his tour with you!
VICTORIA FALLS TO KENYA TOUR:"Pieter and Meshack are outstanding guides. They are always helpful, patient, friendly and hardworking – a pleasure to have traveled with them." – Helen O’Brien, Melbourne Australia
BOTSWANA WILDPARKS TOUR:"Pieter was an outstanding guide. He made the trip. Pieter was knowledgeable, insightful and responsive." – Eric Roher, Toronto, Canada
CAPE TO VICTORIA FALLS TOUR:"Pieter was a very considerate, professional tour guide. He shared is knowledge and passion for the scenery, flora and fauna. He was organised, always caring and in control of any given situation and answered all of our questions" – Verena Hutschenreuter, Hannheim, Germany
SOUTH AFRICA SCENIC TOUR: “Over the years we have had a number of trips with various companies to various parts of the world, but this was the first with Sunway, in fact we didn’t know it was Sunway until a few days before departure. To put it simply, our guides, Pieter Bezuidenhout and Tinus Pieterse, were the best we’ve ever had by far.
As I am sure you are well aware, Pieter is a highly competent young man who drove us efficiently and safely over 4000km of assorted roads. Always patient, always considerate, always polite, yet friendly and amusing and a good organiser, motivator and cook too. He is clearly proud to represent his country and has an extensive knowledge of the places, the people and the wildlife.” John Atherton and Jane Taylor, UK

IRIS RETTER
Iris grew up in Stuttgart, Germany. Being a sworn translator and having a great interest in languages and history she soon found herself guiding on weekends. After she moved to Cape Town in 2001 it was only a matter of time before she qualified as a cultural and regional guide for the Cape Metropole, Garden Route and Namaqualand. After having guided in Cape Town & surroundings for over four years she did her first Cape to Vic trip for Sunway Safaris in April 2009 and on tour decided that it was time to leave the corporate world. She is now studying for FGASA level 1 exam. Iris loves animals (all of them, yes, ALL OF THEM!), dancing and reading. She is suffering from vertigo and will therefore not jump off any bridge or out of a plane but feels safe in the water and loves water skiing & surfing. She is looking forward to taking many more German clients through Southern Africa, thus sharing her passion for the wildlife, people and cultures which can be experienced there.
CAPE – VICTORIA FALLS:"Iris made this trip very special for me. Her sparkling personality, her considerable knowledge about Africa was a great enrichment for the tour. She gave us a very good background about life in Africa, about animals, plants, culture... She was always concerned with what the guests need, what they want to know or what they want to see. Also, she is a very good cook and her organising ability is outstanding. Thank you for a wonderful time in Africa. I will definitely come back." – Iris Braehler, Germany
CAPE – VIC FALLS: ” I have the strong need of telling you how wonderful my trip with Iris, Gabriel and Themba was in the second quarter of this year. It was a big dream of me to travel in Africa and they made it to an unforgettable and great experience for me. The mix was perfect! During the long drives, Iris explained us very nice the culture, development and regional distinctions in German. On the walks it was amazing to notice how much knowledge Gabriel and Themba have about the animals, the landscape the history and even about the southern starry sky. Iris was perfect in translating promptly all these things in German in time. Furthermore we had a lot of fun together and the guides were very nice in handling even difficult and stressful situations. They were always aware that this adventure trip is our vacation and maybe our unique adventure in this form.” - Kristin Deutsch, Germany.
CAPE – VIC FALLS:”I did the cape to vic falls accommodated tour in march and wanted to tell you how much I liked it. Especially the guides who where a really good choice for this trip. We had Iris, who did a real good job on organization and tour leading. And she made delicious meals! Maxwell and Chris explained the nature and culture to us in a very interesting way. It is a really good choice to put some regional tour leaders on the tour as well. They were both very reliable and responsible and of course they knew about everything related to southern Africa.
The whole tour was really great… thank you! .” Stephanie Ritter, Germany

ALBERT MUCHENAGUMBO
Albert was born on 22 May 1973, 150km east of ‘Harare’- the capital city of Zimbabwe. After finishing secondary school, Albert worked as a store assistant where he was offered a bursary to study sales and marketing management. Later, Albert also achieved a diploma in Tourism Travel Management through correspondence and began working in the tourism industry in 1995. He enjoyed working as a tour guide and loved meeting people from all walks of life. But, sadly, in 2004 politics became a problem in Zimbabwe and no tourists were visiting his beautiful country. Albert forced himself to try out different jobs and eventually decided to move to South Africa to see what opportunities he could find. Initially he worked as a truck driver, but soon joined Sunway on 22nd June 2008. Albert says he will never forget his first trip; a hyena chewing on their tyre, baboons trying to steal fruit from the truck, ‘It was a great experience’. His favourite tours are through Botswana, South Africa and the Cape Town to Victoria Falls. He loves the scenery and the animals; his favourite being baboons and wild dogs. Albert appreciates every experience gained on the road and enjoys sharing and exchanging views with the many interesting people he meets from all over the world.
TRADE ROUTE:" Albert has a heart of gold, he always took care of every thing we needed with a huge smile. Together the guides formed a perfect team creating a unique experience that brought so much more out of Africa then just wildlife." Chris Egan, California USA
BOTSWANA WILDSIDE: ”I'm already 2 months back at home from the best experience I ever had on my life and which I got from your company. After staying in Cape Town for a few days we went on the Johannesburg to Vic Falls Safari through Botswana from April 18th to May 1st. It was such a great time I enjoyed it a lot. Our guides on the tour Albert and Charles and also Andrea (from planet Okawango) who was with us for the tour through Moremi, Savuti and Chobe made to tour unforgettable. They are all very knowledgeable and very responsible for the group and for all things necessary for a successful tour. Charles is a very friendly and kind person and a very good cook, Albert was the happy soul of the tour and had always a helping hand. Andrea had an enormous knowledge about all the wildlife in Botswana which he in an absolutely kind way shared with us and which helped us to see such a great amount of wildlife. We were so lucky to have him and Charles and Albert us our guides. Thank you all so much! I'm sure I'll come back on a tour with your company and would love to have them again as the guide.” Ulrike Wetzel, Leipzig Germany

LAZARUS MWALE
Lazarus Mwale born 7th September 1973 in Mazoe, a small farming community, situated in the north western end of Zimbabwe. Then moved to Victoria Falls as of senior school to date. Waking up every morning to the "thundering and smoking Mighty Victoria Falls", quenched his love for nature and outdoor adventure. In 1989 he became the youngest boat cruise captain on the upper Zambezi. His love for wild water found him guiding on white water rapids in the Batoka gorges below the Victoria Falls for the next 10years that followed as of 1994. My first experience wild camping through Moremi, Savuti (Botswana) got me closer to the untamed wild Africa hence you find me here to stay.
BOTSWANA:”Fantastic trip, good variety, well organised, superior guides (Lazarus) – GREAT TRIP.” Suzy Stevens, UK.
CLASSIC BOTSWANA:”The trip was phenomenal, surpassing all of our expectations. We were concerned about our lack of camping knowledge, but Lazarus and Press (our guides) made us feel comfortable in our ineptness. The guides and cook were fantastic. Very knowledgeable and willing to accommodate all of the campers' requests. I think I ate better in the bush than I do at my own home! .” Mr & Mrs Polis, USA.

ANGELIQUE PIERRY
Angelique Marie Pierry was born in Bonn, Germany. She grew up close to Frankfurt am Main. Travelling has been a passion of her parents that they passed on to her. After she matriculated she did an apprenticeship with SAP AG in Walldorf, Germany, as a foreign correspondence. She only took the job due to the fact that they promised her to send her overseas. In 2006, she arrived in South Africa for the first time and worked for SAP Research in South Africa. In 2007, after she finished her apprenticeship she decided to break down her tents in Germany and head back to the rainbow nation and study Communications Science in English. She joined Sunway Safaris in 2008 and mostly takes German clients through Southern Africa. She loves the bush – being back to basics – enjoys watching animals and the calmness that the beauty of African nature has to offer. When she is not on tour, she is studying for her degree or skydiving on the weekends.

JERRY MAGOHOMERA
Jerry was born in Harare in Zimbabwe, but grew up and was educated in the town of Kariba. Kariba is very close to many nature reserves, and it was here that he fell in love with the bush. Jerry's father was a professional big game hunter, and it was through him that Jerry learned all there is to know about the African bush, and love of the African bush was passed one from one generation to another. Jerry feels that the meaning of Africa can only be felt in the African bush, and as such, even when he is not on tour tries to spend as much time as possible in the bush. Jerry loves playing soccer so if you on tour with him, challenge him to a six a side game, and see how good his is. Apart from soccer, Jerry loves to cook (another one of our guides who have metrosexual tendencies) so the meals that he prepares are always wonderful. Jerry is full of fun, and feels that is the way to properly experience life
CAPE – VICTORIA FALLS EXPLORER TOUR:"Hello from Germany!
Many thanks for this unforgettable vacation. We had a great time with our friendly and helpful guides Dave and Jerry. Dave left no question unanswered and spoilt us with culinary pleasures, while Jerry fulfilled always in a good mood our wishes and woke up us in the morning on time! We had a lot of fun with Jerrys stunts! Kind regards to both, Claudia & Olaf - Germany
CAPE – VICTORIA FALLS EXPLORER TOUR:"Great thanks to the always laughing Jerry, he is also a great cook an he helped us every time we need it, for example, putting up the tent. This was the best journey I ever made, so I recommended this tour to a colleague. Great thanks to all, Sabine Loser – Germany.
CAPE – VICTORIA FALLS EXPLORER TOUR:"Hallo! I’m very happy that I have done the decision to do it. I had never been in Africa before and could see so many places and animals in only three weeks. Thanks to Jerry and Francois, our guides. Thousands of kilometres on the road we felt very safe with Francois, our truck driver. He was always friendly, full of fun and good for jokes. And he can do things so well and fast : Buy food and prepare well tasting meals together with Jerry, do the paperwork…
A big Thank You to Jerry ! He is very likable and was really a good friend to all of us, helping whenever he could do so. And no question kept unanswered, he seems to know all about the African bush ! He cheered us up so often with his funny and hearty way." Juergen Schneider, Germany.
CAPE _ VICTORIA FALLS EXPLORER TOUR:"The organization in South Africa was great, I think I have never been looked after so well in my whole life. The equipment and truck were just perfect. The tents were sometimes a bit difficult to erect, but we always had helping hands and it was therefore no problem. The guides have been great, very friendly. The meals on safari were excellent. In most of the hotels on other holidays I have not eaten half as well. The balance between driving and visiting/exploring was just right." Sweet Orange Guest House in Cape Town was great. Very friendly staff and a wonderful breakfast." Marco Lehmann, Germany.

ADRIAAN SMIT
Adriaan was born in the friendly of city of Port Elizabeth, but feels that he grew up in the Kruger National Park. He and his family were very out doors orientated, and spent as much time as possible in the bush.
After finishing school Adriaan spent a few years working in the U.K and doing some travelling in Europe. When he returned to South Africa, Adriaan studied to be a game ranger / field guide. In his second year of studying he realised that his passion lay in birding and the wildlife and the different cultures that Africa has to offer. This means that being an overland guide is a perfect life style for him.
Adriaan feels that it is an honour to share the African experience with people from all over the world. He is committed to the African continent and feels that, "value can only be found in committed people".
GARDEN ROUTE ADVENTURE TOUR:"Tour was enhanced by Adriaan our guide who could never do enough for us and who was encouraging, enthusiastic and extremely well informed. He put himself out to “make” the tour for us for us and was courteous, very friendly and a bonus." – Anne Niven, UK
SOUTH AFRICA SCENIC ROUTE”Back home after "Scenic Route" (23 June to 10 July 2007) I and my son want to thank you very much for a very in-depth experience. We also thank our guides Wiehen Stapelberg and Adriaan Smit; they were always qualified, enthusiastic and available.” Franco and Federico Fochesato – Italy
BOTSWANA WILDPARKS SAFARI TOUR: "I was part of a Botswana Wild Parks Tour in June 2009 and had a fantastic time.Our tour guide Adrianne and his assistant Jamie did a great job. His favourite saying turned out to be "this does not usually happen". We had quite a few unexpected experiences which bonded the tour group together and contributed towards ...!–Gayle Anderson, England

DYLAN CHERRY
Dylan was born in Durban and raised in South Africa (they moved around the country a lot because his dad was a miner). He eventually settled down in Johannesburg and finished high school. When he was growing up he wanted to be a Pilot, Actor or a Rock Star. He now has 37.8 hours on his PPL (Private Pilot License), he finished four years of drama school and he still plays the drums for a SA rock band but also plays guitar, bass and a little piano (between tours). He is also a PADI Rescue Diver and regularly goes diving on holidays.
His normal job after school was working for his parents at a furniture factory over a period of nine years, doing many different jobs and ended up behind a computer from 9-5 and he was making a lot of money, but he eventually got tired of the office job and followed his heart to the bush. He did his guide training and got a job with Sunway Safaris where he loves guiding more and more with every trip.
He lives with his brother in Johannesburg (where he does all the cooking) and likes to watch Rugby (Go Sharks) and 20/20 Cricket. He likes to do all the extreme sports including rock climbing, bungee jumping, sky-diving, river rafting (he’s basically game for everything that’s a little on the edge). But he still recons nothing can compare with the adrenalin rush you get when an elephant charges you…
FAMILY SAFARI OF SOUTH AFRICA “May I start by saying a big thank you for providing us with a wonderful holiday. Dylan and Speedy were amazing. They worked very very hard at everything they did and gave us a great experience. They were so good as guides but did such a good job on the catering. Please send them kindest regards and good luck with all that life brings them from all all of the Williams family (Mair ,Nigel,Bryn and Rhys).
Whilst in Kruger Dylan pulled the truck up at a safe distance away from a massive bull elephant, who was eating the leaves off a large branch. The elephant decided to get a closer look at our vehicle and came over to investigate. Dylan with nerves of steel kept the truck still and we all kept as quiet as possible. My 10 year old son filmed all this and it does provide an interesting clip.As the elephant came as close to the truck as he could without actually getting into it!
Once again I cannot praise Dylan and Speedy highly enough.” Mair WILLIAMS, UK
TRADE ROUTE:" Dylan and I got on like we have been friends for a long time. His knowledge and experience made this a very comfortable tour. Every time he prepared dinner he impressed us with his magical camp cooking prows." Chris Egan, California USA

MICHIEU LOURENS
Mich is happiest with her toes in the sand and the wind in her hair. She was born and bred in the coastal town of Cape Town (where’s the mountain?) and spent most of her days on the beach or in the sea. It doesn’t take much to make this young lady smile (as long as the sun is shining). Mich looks at everything in life as an adventure. She spent 2 years working and travelling in Europe and although she is an African child, she has a passion for meeting all kinds of people and experiencing all parts of the world. When she is not on the road, she’s planning her next adventure, strumming her guitar, jamming on her jembe drum or strolling on the beach with her big (but friendly) Rotwiler – all very Cape Town.
BOTSWANA WILDPARKS “Fly-In”:"I would like to be say thank you to Charel & Michieu and for their excellent organization on the trip. My greetings to the two of them. I was very satisfied and loved the 3 days that we spent in the Moremi Game Reserve. Karin Barth - Germany
SOUTH AFRICA & MOZAMBIQUE BEACH & BUSH: "Seasons Greetings to all at Sunway Safaris, including Charel and Mich. I had a great trip in September 2009 to South Africa and Mozambique and have many lovely photos to prove I saw the big five in one day in Kruger, the whale shark in Tofo, the great food prepared by Charel and Mich and even some macro flower photography." –colleen Fowler, Australia

SPEEDWELL “SPEEDY” MADAKA
Speedy was born in a town called “I Dutywa” pronounced I-doo-tja and grew up in Umtata in the Eastern Cape (a beautiful part of South Africa). Speedy’s interest at home is soccer, and in the bush he enjoys bush walks and game drives. When Speedy is not on tour we are greeted in the mornings by the buzzer at the gate with a “Good morning. It is Speedy. Please can you open the gate for me. Thank you”. You will be able to recognise Speedy as he is always wears a cap (and enjoys making hotdogs for lunch).
SOUTH AFRICA TOUR: " I just wanted to say another big thank you to Wayne and to Speedy for one of the best trips I have ever been on, we couldn't of wished for better Guides. We got back yesterday from the 17 day South Africa Trip, it was a shame it had to come to an end. I will miss them both, especially Wayne's great cooking and chat and Speedy's 'Wunderbarr' (group joke!)
This was my second trip with Sunway Safaris and we will definitely be looking to book a third hopefully for the end of this year, beginning of next. I wouldn't even consider using a different company to travel around Africa with, as the Guides, the small group size, the tents and the trucks make it perfect.” Naomi WILLIAMS, UK
SOUTH AFRICA TOUR: “THANK to the best guides Wayne and Speedy for the best holiday I ever had. With them I travelled from Jo-burg to Cape town in April/March 2006 (Start March 25th 2006) within 17 days of greatest fun and adventure. I enjoyed marvelous cooking, the wonderful happy and friendly atmosphere both ever created as well as learned incredible much due to their great knowledge of South Africans nature/wildlife und human beings.
Most of all I admired their always putting themselves behind the guest. Besides, tents and truck made it a perfect trip. Everything every time was possible, "under control" and absolutely "Wunderbar":-) THANK YOU!!! Hopefully I return - I’m already planning my next trip with Sunway.” - Sandrin Steffens, Germany
SOUTH AFRICA FAMILY TOUR: “Hi. I'm writing to say an enormous thanks to your guide, Speedy, who along with Greg made such efforts to ensure we had the holiday of a lifetime. Speedy worked tirelessly from morning til night, always smiling & laughing & taking everything in his stride. I particularly appreciated his warmth & the lovely friendship my son made with him. Even when he was tired he gave him attention & watching them splash in the ocean at the end of the trip was a highlight of the holiday. I cannot praise him enough as a person or a guide. He is an invaluable asset to your company & a wonderful representative for South African hospitality. Please pass on our warmest thanks to him. Best wishes.” – Morag & Keir Reid, United Kingdom

RIAAN PIENAAR
Riaan was born in Bloemfontein in the Free State province of South Africa and grew up in the capital city of South Africa, Pretoria. After school, Riaan lived in England for 6 months, working in a chocolate factory. But, packing chocolates was not what Riaan wanted to do for the rest of his life and, like most South Africans in England, he missed the African sunshine. Riaan returned to South Africa and enrolled at the University of Pretoria as a student in Psychology. After studying psychology for 2 years, Riaan realized that the African bush was calling… He then enrolled to study Game Reserve and Lodge management, which included a flied guiding qualification. Riaan graduated in 2006 and started working as a field guide in a private game reserve, where he spent his time doing game drives and walks with clients. He has an incredible love and passion for the African bush and realized that there is so much more to be explored in Southern Africa. Riaan joined Sunway and loves being on the road, sharing his passion for Africa with his clients.
SOUTH AFRICA:”The guides (Riaan and Pieter) were great fun, always helpful and friendly and brilliant in their cultural and fauna/flora knowledge!” Janina Huebner, Germany
BOTSWANA:"Hello Sunway-Safaris, I'm just for a few hours back in Germany from my fantastic vacation in Botswana and I'd like to give a feedback:
It was a really great und and unforgettable time in Botswana. I've never expected to see so many animals and get to know such a wonderful and breathtaking landscape. It is unbelievable how pristine and natural the game reserves are. We drove and drove and drove and no other car crossed our way- that is real holiday and escape from the everyday life. It was very fascinating and amazing how close you can get to the animals there- lions, elephants, hippos...
Of course this whole journey could only work because of our great guides Riaan and Chris! This two guys were always hard working and I was very lucky to spent my holidays with them.
Chris- the Animal as himself- is one of the funniest persons I know. He knows always to tell a very good story and to make the group laughing. The both are very loveable (I'm true with this formulation...) persons and it would be a pleasure for me to spend another vacation in Southern Africa wit them!
All the best from a happy German traveller." Daniel Pietsch

JEFFREY MOKOENA
Jeffrey was born in Newcastle in Kwazulu Natal (South Africa), the home of the Zulu, a proud African culture with a rich history. He moved to Johannesburg where he studied logistics and worked as a receiving clerk and stock controller. During this time Jeff attended management courses where he gained valuable knowledge in regards to human relations. Whilst working in Johannesburg Jeff never forgot his roots, and missed being close to nature. He read many books and watched nature programs on television, he learned more and more about nature. He realized that he should be working close to nature and not in the city! Jeff started off with Sunway as a tour driver and has learned even more tour leading and the tourism industry. You meet him leading groups for Sunway. While on tour, sit around the fire in the evening with Jeff and you'll find he has many firm opinions and some interesting local insights. He believes that he belongs in the overlanding business!
SOUTH AFRICA:”Pieter and Jeff are great guides, very professional, helpful, informative and good fun. Also worked extremely hard to make our holiday wonderful memories.” Eileen Fraser, UK

WAYNE MWANGO
Wayne was born on 21 Aug 1982 in Ndola, Zambia. He moved to Lusaka at the age of 13 and finished school their. Wayne joined the Youth Alive Zambia to get involved with caring for animals and ended up staying with them for 7 years working on volunteer programs. In 2005 driven by his ambition to become a tour guide he decided to come to South Africa and follow a guiding course to learn all the intricacies of the bush. After joining Sunway Safaris and spending some time on the road Wayne believes that he is finally living out his dream of being a tour guide. He also has a great love for football and passionately supports Manchester United.

MAXWELL MUSWERE
Born in Rusape, Zimbabwe (born 1977) Maxwell attended a good old boys school and studied up to an advanced level. He left Zim to further his education in South Africa studying Hotel Management. He went on to work for a variety of hotels and finally after some years got tired of “indoor jobs”. Max decided to visit England (but why!) and returned to get qualified as a professional guide in Zimbabwe. He worked as a river guide on the mighty Zambezi when the “travel bug” took over again. With his love for people and nature “overland” guiding seemed to be the best option, he has now travelled to East, South and Central Africa on safaris and he is still enjoying every moment of it. When not on tour Max loves to spend his time playing a bit of rugby or reading a good book, and if you ever travel with him be prepared to be spoiled by his excellent bush cooking skills!

CHAREL HATTINGH
Charl was born in the Sabie and grew up in Rustenburg, a mining town (he actually worked in the mine for 3 years) in the North West Province. Charl thinks there is nothing better than lying in a canvas tent at night listening to the sounds of the bush, or having coffee next to a fire in the morning. Charel has never brushed his hair (see photo for evidence) and “David Beckham likes to wear an alice-band like Charel” is a favourite quote of this shy guide. He is soft-spoken yet rough (enjoying playing with Puff Adder snakes) and despite his rather varied taste in music (from Classic to Jazz) Charel is quite musical and can play the bongo drums and the guitar (at the same time!). Charel has visited many game reserves with his father growing up so has a great knowledge of birds and animals, and he loves cooking so sounds like the perfect guide.
BOTSWANA TOUR:"Hi and thank you! I had the most wonderful time! The group were great, the leaders (Charel and Axle) never ceased to amaze me (local knowledge, knowledge of animals, their thoughtfulness, their cooking skills etc. etc.). The whole holiday was incredibly well planned out with a real variety of adventures along the way which built up and up to a final crescendo……being soaked through at the Falls!! Fantastic, can’t rave enough about it and gonna tell ALL my friends!! Am looking to book something for Xmas now, just awaiting my new catalogue from you guys! This kind of travel has opened up a whole new world for me, as I am single!" Siobhan Breslin, UK
CAPE TO VICTORIA FALLS TOUR:"Charl; Jaco: Thanks so much for all. You made the tour to be an unforgettable one." – Belinda Haefliger, Switzerland.
BOTSWANA TOUR: "Our two guides, Charel and David are to be complimented for providing our group with a wonderful experience" – Judy WARRELL, Australia
BOTSWANA WILPARKS SAFARI TOUR: "May I say a huge thank you for organizing a great trip for the "special tour". Your staff were superb,Charel and Albert made a great team,competent, efficient, friendly and very professional. Your choice of accommodation was excellent especially Santiwani and the free camp in the Delta. Both these places gave us the true Africa we wanted to experience. I wish your company well and will advise others that this is the best trip in Africa" – Cathie COMPTON, Australia
BOTSWANA WILPARKS SAFARI TOUR: We just returned from the Botswana Wildside camping that ended last week. My girlfriend and me were absolutely stunned and pleased about this trip. We left with tears in the eyes. A warm thank you for the efforts and guidance we got from your organization. This was by far the best trip we had, ever.
A special thank you to Charel, who was a perfect guide for the whole tour. He spared no efforts to make us happy and feel comfortable. He also showed us great knowledge about the culture, fauna and flora. The food he presented to us was 5 star quality. We lost our luggage at the beginning of the tour but Charel made sure we had everything we needed at hand. This trip was awesome, but Charel made it even better. " – Joris Ooms & Brenda Schevenels, The Netherlands
SOUTH AFRICA & MOZAMBIQUE BEACH & BUSH: "Seasons Greetings to all at Sunway Safaris, including Charel and Mich. I had a great trip in September 2009 to South Africa and Mozambique and have many lovely photos to prove I saw the big five in one day in Kruger, the whale shark in Tofo, the great food prepared by Charel and Mich and even some macro flower photography." –colleen Fowler, Australia
BOTSWANA WILDSIDE SAFARI TOUR: "Our Botswana camping safari trip was an amazing experience! We now still enjoy that trip! So, we would like to say a very special thanks again to our greatest guide Charel and the two other guides (Press en Israel) for all the things they've done to make us feel home and save... We will never forget it!–Brenda Schevenels, Germany

CHRIS VAN BRAKEL
He was born in the small town of Bethal in the Highveld of South Africa. After matriculating he went to ‘big city” Pretoria to study Nature management and then went on to work at a few lodges in the Limpopo Province while still studying part time. He has now joined the Sunway Safaris team to increase his knowledge of Southern Africa nature and wildlife. Chris has a typical small town personality and is a positive influence to any camp fire. He has a great love for travelling but according to him his car is too small to go to all the wonderful places we travel to, so he likes going in our Sunway Safari trucks.
BOTSWANA WILDSIDE SAFARI TOUR: “We had a fantastic time and lots of fun. I would like to underline that the great experience is due to the amazing job of your guides. We have been accompanied by Chris v B and Pieter van Wyk. They have been outstanding for the whole trip making every group member at ease. They both showed an extremely patient and positive approach to life and they were always helpful to solve small problems and help people and satisfy their needs. Thanks again!”- Silvia Mollo, Italy

SYDNEY MNISI Sydney was born in Mpumalanga, close to the border of the Kruger National Park. His love of the bush started when his mother took him on his first visit to the Kruger at the age of 7. From there he was hooked. At school he was focused on Nature Conservation, and after finishing school he did a course in Nature Conservation, but he felt that he needed more people interaction, did a course in Travel & Tourism management, and from there progressed towards guiding where his love of nature, and his need for people to people interaction gave him all that he wanted in life. Sydney says, “All in all guiding is my LIFE!!”
CAPE TO VIC FALLS EXPLORER: Sept/Oct 08 "It was an unforgettable tour for us, Dave has knew to bring home it really to us the nature and many animals. He and Sydney conjured every evening really food. We would be glad very much if we may go away on one of our next tours again with the both. Again many thanks to the both" - Mike & Diana and Hans & Heidi from Chemnitz Germany
SOUTH AFRICA CABIN TOUR:“The tour of South Africa recently was absolutely fantastic. I had such a smooth and exciting trip. The three guides TJ, Sydney and the trainee Dennis couldn't have been more helpful. Sydney did most of the cooking and the food provided was of a very high standard. One night we enjoyed Ostrich and another night dined on Warthog! Absolutely delicious! There was fresh fruit at all times and plenty of salad with lunch. All the accommodation was extremely clean and comfortable. TJ did all the driving and I felt very safe on the road as despite frustrations he did not ever obviously lose his cool. He was confidently in control of the organization of the trip, and was able to give us useful information about where to go and not to go in towns we visited so at all times I felt pretty safe. There were so many different things to see on the tour. I loved the mix of game parks, beaches, wineries and big cities. The game parks were my favorite and we saw all of the 'big five' including a leopard in the branch of a tree. I was the only one of our group to go on the Kruger night drive, and on this occasion saw elephant, rhino, buffalo and hyena at pretty close quarters. I did three optional tours and especially enjoyed the visit to Robben Island, although the sea was pretty rough on that particular day. What a fascinating and moving history locked up in that small piece of land. The visit to the Zulu village was absolutely fascinating as we were told all about the lives of the family that lived there including marriage and burial rituals, food and living arrangements.” Christina Martin, Australia.
CAPE to VIC FALLS:“The trip was outstanding,- Our two guides Albert and Sydney were superb - in every way - interest flora and fauna –amazing organization and as people wonderful to meet. We got to places that there is no way we could have been by ourselves - Africa is totally haunting me and calling me back - Even the long distance traveling was thrilling seeing that pristine eternal landscape.” Tessa Zadok.

THEA OBERHOLZER
Thea grew up on a farm in the North West province of South Africa and her love for the outdoors started with all the wonderful family holiday trips they went on. After school she travelled and worked in the U.K for a year, but had to return to her beloved country as the “bush” was calling. She decided that a career involving sitting in an office the whole day was definitely not for her, so she went on to complete a degree in Ecotourism Management. She spent some time managing a lodge in the Northern parks of Botswana before joining us as a guide at Sunways. Thea loves nature and any outdoor activities and when not on tour she likes spending time with her family on the farm.

GAVIN TE BRAKE
Born and bred in Johannesburg, from a large family and a father with an ever present need to go on holiday. He camped his entire life and there is nothing he loves more than seeing new places (or old favourite spots), meeting interesting new people and having a good hearty laugh. Gavin spent 3 years studying Communication Management at the University of Pretoria, and then doing a 1 year post-grad in marketing, then decided to begin his career in travel. He spent 9 months working and travelling in parts of Europe, before the bush called him back home. He now enjoys touring, seeing and ‘living the life’ and intends doing it for an indefinite period of time.

MICHAEL LEESON
Mike was born the 24 March 86 in Johannesburg and moved to the east coast when he was seven. That’s were his passion for wildlife and people started. Always catching animals and birds and releasing them after studying them for a few minutes. In 2005 he started studying tourism and wildlife but was not old enough to get a professional drivers permit to guide yet. But he pursued his dream and when he finally got his PrDP he started his career guiding. Loving the bush, animals and all the people, he doesn’t see himself doing anything else. Mike loves motocross and if you cannot find him on the road working, well then he is probably on his bike in the bush or on the track! Mike: “I love my job! The places I get to see and experience that I get is awesome. I always tell my guests “welcome to my office”. Thanks to Sunway Safaris, I can finally live my dream and enjoy what I am good at.”

CHRIS ZVIDZAYI
Chris was born in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe and nicknamed ‘animal’, for his love of wildlife! He spent 20 years of his life in the African bush and admits that he can more easily find his way in the bush than in the streets of towns! Whilst traveling through Southern Africa, he gained valuable knowledge of fauna, flora and all the different cultures in Southern Africe, he has been guiding tours for 17 years and is always ready to share this knowledge and his love for nature. He believes to always give his best in everything he does. Chris is interested in working within a multicultural environment and being in the bush ‘touching nature’. He encourages participation on tour and motivates those around him to conserve nature for the future generations. Chris is a wonderful person, always friendly and caring.
BOTSWANA WILDSIDE TOUR:"Hi guys at Sunway Safaris, I'd like to write some words about your guides Chris and Francois - for your internet-site, if you like.
We made the Classic Botswana and Okavango-tour with Chris and Francois and it was a great trip. Francois was the head of the team and he is mulit-talented: perfect organisation, good timing, perfect cook, always friendly and he seems to be never tired. Chris is really a GOOD MAN with a heart of gold. he was always first out of the tent, always working very hard but always with a smile and a good story... wonderful funny stories. Thank you for this. You both made this trip unforgettable... hope to see you soon in Southern Africa. Good luck and with best regards." Ralph Eichmann, Germany, 2008
BOTSWANA WILDPARKS SAFARI: October 2009 " Hi Chris, Tinus. Still buoyed by the experience of this mainly Botswanan holiday. Anne and I would like to thank you all for the hard work and daily problem solving that seems to be part of a fast paced people moving exercise in Africa. Of course we were delighted with the opportunity to be so close to animals in their natural habitat but the bonus was to be so close to the people who live in this environment and to find the safari leaders to be so engaging and informative. The local guides also, were generous with their knowledge, answered questions freely and went out of their way to assist and to bring us closer to wildlife. No guests could be happier than we were throughout the trip and still are as we muse on the memory. This safari provided many unexpected delights such as the kindness observed in the local people, both to us and to each other at San-Ta-Wani . And thrills such as an elephant coming to the bar-side pool at Elephant Sands for an after dark drink. While I am sure that many sticky situations and frustrations must have arisen through the 14 days, the leaders managed to keep cool, stick to the timetable and iron out difficulties so that we had the impression that everything ran like clockwork. This was a many layered experience and we will take pleasure in commending this tour to those who ask and will look forward to another trip in the future. !" - Gary Chapman, Australia
TRADE ROUTE:" I just wanted to point out that both Chris and Tinus were an inspiration to me. As I employ people in BP and we have a code of conduct in how to work in my company I just wanted to let you know the professionalism that was given to me by both Chris and Tinus. With my observation of them both I wanted to point out that Chris is a motivator with all groups concerned and has a way with interacting with people on all levels and his mastery of languages gives you the impression that he is an asset to your company. He is passionate about Sunway Safaris and gives 110% to his job and wakes up every day with a smile on his face and a motivating aura to his group. if I was to have a job going within BP I would snap both of them up to employ them given their commitment to their jobs and their passion." Zandra Smith, UK
TRADE ROUTE:" Chris was one of the most dynamic people I have met. He offered a window into the heart and soul of Africa that I never dreamed of seeing. His interactions with the people that extended to us on tour were truly one of the most rewarding parts of my journey. I feel privileged to have shared this experience with him." Chris Egan, California USA
CAPE – VIC FALLS:”I did the cape to vic falls accommodated tour in march and wanted to tell you how much I liked it. Especially the guides who where a really good choice for this trip. We had Iris, who did a real good job on organization and tour leading. And she made delicious meals! Maxwell and Chris explained the nature and culture to us in a very interesting way. It is a really good choice to put some regional tour leaders on the tour as well. They were both very reliable and responsible and of course they knew about everything related to southern Africa.
The whole tour was really great… thank you! .” Stephanie Ritter, Germany

PIETER van WYK
After being born in Gauteng, Pieter’s parents moved to the small town of Nylstroom in the Limpopo province or as the locals call it “The Bushvelt.” He matriculated from the local high school and went on studying civil engineering, but after 5 years of work of which 2 was in the UK he figured that he won’t be happy unless he is back in the place where he grew up. He decided to study field guiding to improve his bush knowledge and soon after graduating he joined Sunway Safaris as an overland guide. Pieter has a passion for cultures and enjoy telling stories around the cooking fires about his travelling experiences in Africa and around the world.
BOTSWANA WILDSIDE SAFARI TOUR: “We had a fantastic time and lots of fun. I would like to underline that the great experience is due to the amazing job of your guides. We have been accompanied by Chris v B and Pieter van Wyk. They have been outstanding for the whole trip making every group member at ease. They both showed an extremely patient and positive approach to life and they were always helpful to solve small problems and help people and satisfy their needs. Thanks again!”- Silvia Mollo, Italy

LISSOM TSHUMA
Lissom was born in Nkayi, Zimbabwe on 07 Oct 1979. After completing high school he became teacher at a local primary school for 3 years. Realising that teaching wasn’t his thing he moved to Victoria Fall as this is the tourist capital of Zimbabwe he automatically joined the tourism industry. After getting a diploma in sales management and marketing with the Collage of Professional Management he attended a tour guiding course and started guiding. He loves nature and meeting new people and with his teaching background he is a great leader and very enthusiastic about sharing his knowledge of the Southern African bush!

LEON LOUW
Leon was born in Johannesburg and after his military service, this computer illiterate fellow worked as a clerk for an IT company while studying Nature and Conservation. Quickly realizing an office environment was not in his future, Leon began his guiding career in 1999. Traveling over Southern Africa with a two year stint in Botswana, Leon loves sharing his knowledge of African flora and fauna. Be warned however, while in National Parks, if Leon stops the vehicle with too much excitement on his face, he has usually spotted a small brown bird and not a pride of Lions!!!
SOUTH AFRICA:”Hi to you all (especially Leon & Susanne). Alison and I would like to say a big thank you for the great time we had on our recent SA 17 safari. Everything went pretty well despite the obvious pressure to meet a tight schedule. Best wishes, Alison & Peter Jones, UK. P.S. We would recommend you to anyone who asks"
CAPE TO VICTORIA FALLS:"Hi. I'm home again, but everytime I return from Africa my soul seems to take longer to return too. Thanks to sunway and the two excellent guides LEON and SUSANNE it was once more a unforgetable tour with Sunway. I'll be back next year. Best wishes and kind regards. Claire Kern, Switzerland"
SOUTH AFRICA:"Hi there. My sister and I recently participated in your 17 day scenic route tour. What a fantastic journey, and it was made so special by the professional, well organised yet friendly relaxed attitude of our two guides, Leon and Susanne. For first time visitors to your amazing country their knowledge, patience, and willingness to share made our trip possibly the best and most memorable we have made. We have very firmly resolved that we have not finished with Africa by a long way, and that any return trip would need to involve one of your many tours. Thanks again to Leon and Susanne, I am convinced their contribution made the difference between a great trip and a truly rewarding and wonderful experience." Janice Humphries & Beryl Thomson, New Zealand
CAPE TO VIC FALLS: “Dear Leon, we want to thank both you and Ricus for making our holiday so fantastic. Your knowledge of the country, animals, flora and people couldn’t have been bettered. You kept us entertained and ensured we all participated and never was there a cross word.
We are raving about everything here and already passing your details onto friends who are so envious. Gordon & Elaine Gwinnett – UK
SOUTH AFRICA SCENIC ROUTE: “Having recently travelled on your Scenic Route tour I would like you to pass on my grateful thanks to your two guides who, for me, helped make it a truly fabulous holiday which surpassed all my expectations. The small group that I travelled with were extremely lucky to be accompanied by Leon and Ricus who more than played their part in making it a holiday to remember.
Leon was amazing, his knowledge of flora and fauna was endless and we managed to identify forty mammal species (including four of the big five and three of the small five) and almost 140 species of bird on our trip. He kept saying how lucky we were to see so much but the truth was it was down to his knowledge and experience in getting us to the right place at the right time. Although lacking the flora and fauna knowledge, Ricus’s knowledge of the history of South Africa was immense and he really brought to life the British/Boer/Zulu battles.
Both guys proved to be excellent cooks and meal times were always keenly anticipated and Leon’s Potjie was a hit with everyone. Always eager to please, Ricus would often go out of his way to ensure everyone was catered for both in camp and out on field trips. His sense of humour was brilliant and his impersonations (especially the hippo) were highly entertaining.
I am sure everyone on the tour would echo this but I would just like to say a huge, huge thank you to both guys for looking after us during the tour and making it such an unforgettable experience. Colin Haggart - UK

WIEHAN STAPELBERG
Wiehan grew in a small town in Limpopo Province called Naboomspruit. After completing his schooling Wiehan studied Catering and Hospitality, and also did a bit of project managing along the way. He joined the family restaurant for a while but felt that he needed to get out into the bush, as it is one of his passions. Wiehan studied field guiding, and has now joined the Sunway guides. Wiehan has guided throughout Southern Africa, and his easy going nature, and fun attitude ensure that all the people who have been on tour with him have a great time. It may also be something to do with all the beers that they drink!!!! Wiehan really enjoys guiding, and is most happy when he is out on the road.
BOTSWANA PRIVATE SAFARI:"I just want to thank you for another formidably successful safari, and how could it be otherwise with people such as Wiehan Stapelberg and Andrea Gagotshwane? Knowledgeable, enthusiastic, skilful - it is impossible to exaggerate their qualifications, and I know I have all my group with me in saying this." Staffan Ulfstrand – Sweden
BOTSWANA FAMILY SAFARI:" Thanks for giving us such a great and memorable week, Richard, Christine, Amelia and Imogen – United Kingdom
BOTSWANA WILD PARKS: “We can’t speak highly enough of Wiehan who was hugely knowledgeable, efficient, fantastic with the children, good company and an excellent cook. He made a great trip a brilliant one.” Holmes Family – UK
SOUTH AFRICA SCENIC ROUTE”Back home after "Scenic Route" (23 june to 10 july 2007)I and my son want to thank you very much for a very in-depth experience. We also thank our guides Wiehen Stapelberg and Adriaan Smit; they were always qualified, enthusiastic and available.” Franco and Federico Fochesato – Italy

TAMLYN WRIGHT
Tamlyn grew up in Zimbabwe, until she came to South Africa in 1998 to study marketing in Cape Town, and now lives here permanently. She did a stint as a Field Guide at a game lodge for 3 years, largely involved with horses and trails-riding and has worked in different areas of South Africa. She decided to come back to civilization in 2006, and is now enjoying working in the “big city” and the office full-time. Many of you will have contact with Tamlyn as she is currently involved in the sales and reservations in the Sunway office. Even with interests in Ultimate Frisbee (don’t ask about the broken arm last year!), horses and motorbikes, she does enjoy the opportunity to go on tour as well.

MEL READ
Mel is a recent addition to the Sunway office team and admin is her game! Before joining Sunways Mel studied personal relations and worked for some time as a chef in a popular up market restaurant in Jo’burg(poor people!). She also enjoyed some travelling after finishing school and visited England and the Canary Island and she believes she will visit some more exiting places soon. Mel is also a keen MotoX enthusiast.

RICHARD WHITE
Richard was born and raised in Johannesburg, South Africa and has spent the majority of his life living in and out of the bush. He feels perfectly at home in the African wilderness and when he is travelling on personal safaris he has been known to go walkabout in the bush.
Richard studied politics and international relations, and later specialised in travel and tourism management. He has travelled extensively in Europe, and also spent time in the Far East teaching English.
After so many years with Sunway Richard is now involved in the international marketing of the company and spends several months of each year visiting our agents in various countries around the world. ‘Rich’ always has time to talk to anyone, so when you meet him, buy him a beer and you’ll be sure to have a good laugh at all the stories he has to tell.
BOTSWANA & ZIMBABWE TOUR:"Demonstrating occasional human characteristics by occasionally wearing shoes in the bush." - Happy Hippo Society, Hungary
SOUTH AFRICA TOUR:"This was the best holiday I have taken yet. I would for sure do it again. Our guide on tour was very helpful and enjoyable, can't think of anything I would change. Thanks for a great trip." - Beth Trawick, United States of America
SOUTH AFRICA TOUR:"Excellent tour, excellent guide. Thoroughly enjoyed it all!!" - Lisa Stonehouse, UK

’BASIE’ MEYER
We are very pleased to announce the marriage of Basie & Tertia. The ceremony was help on the banks for the Boteti River in Maun. Congratulation to both of you, and we wish you all the best for the future. We look forward to seeing Klein Basie helping out in the work shop!!! All the best from the Sunway Team.
Basie hails from Frankfort in the Freestate. After school he decided to explore a bit, went to England on an agricultural working holiday for about a year. He then moved on to America where he worked for a year as linesman, installing high tension power lines. He’s love for the bush brought him back to our lovely country and he joined a game capturing team and traveled Africa capturing and re-allocating all sorts of game. His favorite being the Warthog, which he wants as a pet in the house one day!
After quite a few years of game capturing he ran a breeding program for white lions in Bethlehem which was amazing as he literally brought them up like children in the house. They never left his side and they accompanied him everywhere, even to the post office - easy way to clear the queue!
After many years of working with animals all over Africa he decided to concentrate on another passion motor mechanics and joined Toyota. In Basies eyes there is no better vehicle than a Toyota pickup!
He then decided that doing mechanics alone wasn’t satisfactory and needed a new challenge, so he joined Sunway Safaris as our operations manager and has recently moved up to Maun Botswana to take care of operations there. You might not meet him on safari, but Basie's hard work keeps it all running smoothly

THOMBI – THE OFFICE DOG
Thombi doesn’t do much in the office, but she’s always here to meet you in the morning!

BRUCE TAYLOR
He has travelled extensively for years in Europe, North, East and Southern Africa and parts of South America, New Zealand, Canada, the USA, Malaysia, India and Borneo. Bruce is also a keen mountain biker and competes in several multi-day stage races each year including a successful completion of the 8 day 950km Cape Epic in 2006.
Following a BCom degree from the University of Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, completed in 1993 Bruce worked in an office for a year, but threw that in for the safari life! Bruce, as a founding member of Sunway, is still actively involved in all aspects of the Sunway operation experience. He has a keen interest in photography and enjoys those special "off the beaten track" places.
Bruce & Claire got married on the 2nd of February 2008, and enjoyed a fantastic 2 month honeymoon to Thailand and Cambodia. I am sure that both of them will find it difficult to get used to being back at work, but we are all sure that this is the first of many trips that they will take together!

SHAUN WARING JONES
Shaun's family are from the coastal city of Port Elizabeth, South Africa. Shaun's interest in the wild areas of Africa has lead to many years of 4WD excursions into the bush of Southern Africa including the remote Kaokaveld on the Namibia/Angola border and many national parks. He obtained a BCom degree from the University of Witwatersrand, Johannesburg where he also practiced his love of rowing. Shaun then started leading tours throughout East and Southern Africa from 1994.
Shaun married Megan in 2000 and they have spent time travelling in Australia, climbing mountains in Nepal and skiing in Canada. There first son, Laird is pleased that the has been joined by his brother Fynn, born on the 2nd March 2008, hence mountain climbing will be put on hold for the moment to be replaced by running after young children.