A note from Warren Pearson

Warren is a pan-African safari guide whose work experience extends from guiding to managing lodges, remote luxury bush camps, mineral exploration camps, as well as working in disaster management and training. He has explored areas such as the Eastern Congo, Chad, Rwanda, and many other regions in Africa. Warren has also spent time working for Animal Planet as well as National Geographic on different projects through Southern Africa.

After a very busy 2022, my year ended with an incredible week at a safari lodge in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa with my family. Combining these two aspects of my life is incredibly special. Watching my kids explore, learn and love being in nature is what I live for. The New Year has started with a bang and two exciting educational trips, one to Ethiopia and the other to the Congo basin.

Ethiopia was just incredible! I was invited by a new company that has access to areas around Africa that are away from the crowds and typical tourist zones. This is not a trip for the faint hearted or those who need the white fluffy towels of a luxury safari lodge. This is a trip for those seeking a raw and untouched aspect of Africa where a smile, sincerity and a camera phone opens the doors to a world very few people have ever seen. We explored the southern Omo Valley and the different tribes that call this place home. At times it was like travelling back 1000 years to an Africa no one had even dreamed of.

We also explored the Bale Mountains, home to the most endangered canid on the planet, the Ethiopian Wolf. Our group spent two days enjoying the unique endemism of this area, albeit at -4deg C at times!

Sadly, the Congo was a no go. The unfortunate cancellation of a flight resulted in the entire trip having to be postponed due to the intricate logistics involved in getting to Odzala National Park. Lessons learnt and the reason why I do these educational trIps.

Endangered Mountain Gorilla

Now for the big news. After officially separating from Royal African Safaris and Passage to Africa last year, I am building a platform called SAFARIOUS along with two stalwarts of the industry, Michael Lorentz and James Kydd. I have known and worked with them for years, we design and lead similar safaris and believe in the same conservation solutions. Like me, they are both passionate and curious explorers, so it makes sense to share a space with them. Collectively we have been guiding safaris across Africa for over 80 years.

Warren and Friends

Safarious will be a hub that allows us to continue to design and deliver extraordinary journeys across Africa - and occasionally beyond. I will keep you updated as we get closer to the launch.

Across our industry, 2022 will be remembered as the year that people travelled, it seems that 2023 will follow in the same vein. This year is looking good but there are still a few gaps, so let me know if I can tempt you back on safari - as you know The Safari Never Ends. Barbara Boast, with whom some of you have dealt in the past, has joined us full time and will be managing the admin in her inimitably organised way.

Lastly, just a reminder that as well as leading safaris we are also always available to help you plan and book independent travel to Africa - whether it’s a safari adventure or a fantastic beach & winelands holiday in Cape Town.

I hope to see you soon.

Warren Pearson

Namibian Desert