The African Private Guides Network was founded in 2023 by safari operators who had spent years working alongside exceptional African guides and recognised that those guides lacked the marketing infrastructure, booking systems and industry representation to reach the travellers who would benefit most from their expertise. APGN exists to fix that. We bring together a carefully vetted portfolio of Africa's most accomplished private guides - each with decades of field experience, specialist knowledge and deep cultural ties to the landscapes they work in - and we give them back-of-house support: sales, operations, bookings, marketing and logistics. They focus on the safari. We handle the rest.
Our guides
Experts in the bush, our guides are the best the region has to offer - our carefully selected portfolio numbers just ten. Highly qualified, they have decades of experience and expertise is organising, hosting and curating trips.
With specialty subjects such as ornithology, history, culture, adventure and activities such as mountain climbing or walking, they are the perfect addition to any type of safari.
As the African proverb goes: ‘If you want to travel quickly, go alone. If you want to travel far, go together.’
Travel together with us, and let us take you far and wide.
Founded in 2023, APGN was founded by seasoned safari operators who were impressed by the incredible talent of African guides they were working with. APGN’s purpose is to showcase a diverse and exciting group of guides from across the region to the many different types of travelers that go on safari every year; guides that are known for a level of quality that transcends boundaries, cultures and destinations.
Why book a private guide?
A private guide offers a level of quality and in-depth knowledge that can only be found in someone who was born and lived in the bush their whole life
A private guide can inspire younger safari-goers and add a whole new level of excitement to the experience - as well as giving parents a well-deserved midday rest - with games, bush adventures and other child-focused activities
Multi-generational groups or large number groups can rely on a private guide to make sure every member is looked after and spending the time as they wish - tailoring each member’s experience to their needs and wants
Because of their focused, in-country knowledge, a private guide can create a cohesive and well-planned safari by knowing what activities to do in each location. They offer a level of quality and in-depth knowledge that can only be found in someone who was born and lived in the bush their whole life
Importantly, our chosen guides have cultural ties to the landscape in which they have been brought up. This means that guests learn about not just the wildlife, but the landscape and people they encounter, by becoming part of the community rather than observers
Add an extra pair of hands to help with younger guests, in the form of our highly capable and expertly trained Safari Nannies - brought in to support our guides with groups with children or multi-generational groups. Find out about our Safari Nanny service here.
And finally, having someone who knows the country, speaks the language and can help with any situation, whether it’s a restock of medicine, a restaurant recommendation, someone to advise and help with an issue, or an on-hand haggler to get the best price for your holiday purchase.
Our private guides are the best in the business; by offering them back of house - marketing, sales, operations and financial - support, we allow them to do what they love best; being on safari. Our rigorous enrolment process means that our guides are the best trackers, have the keenest eyes, most enjoyable fireside stories and latest up-to-date knowledge on how to make your safari not just memorable, but the best it can be.
Who should book one of our private guides?
Anyone with an interest in adding an extra layer of expertise, professionalism and practicality to their safari should consider adding a private guide to their next safari.
A first time safari-goer looking for a passionate individual to show them around their home. Our in-house team can not only find the right guide, but we can also help organise and book your whole safari for you.
A safari enthusiast looking to add another layer of expertise to their next trip - whether it be an ornithologist with a passion for Africa’s bird life, trekking to see Uganda’s gorillas or someone to help them spot the famous melanistic leopards of western Laikipia
Any group which includes children or a multi-generational members - our guides and Safari Nannies can help bring the group together and keep everyone happy, rested and engaged
A travel agent or industry partner looking to add a private guide to a group they are working with. A number of our guides speak more than one language and many consider themselves an expert and guiding groups of all ages
A lodge or safari camp looking for an extra pair of hands for a large booking or specialised interest group
Another private guide needing an extra pair of hands on a trip they have organised and recognise the quality of the members of our network.
FAQ
How much does a private safari guide cost?
APGN guides are priced across four tiers, from $ ($100 - $250 daily guiding fee) to $$$$ ($1,000 daily guiding fee), reflecting experience, qualifications and specialism. Daily fees start at $100 and go up to $1,000 or more for the most senior guides. The full rate for your trip will depend on the guide selected, the number of days and the location of your safari. Contact us for a quote once you've browsed the guides and identified one that fits your trip.
What does a private guide actually do on safari?
A private guide works exclusively with your group for the duration of your time together. They lead game drives, walking safaris or cultural excursions; they interpret wildlife, ecosystems, birdlife and local culture; and they handle the day-to-day logistics that would otherwise fall to you - from knowing which route to take to which camp serves the best food. Unlike a camp guide who rotates between multiple groups, a private guide's full attention is on you. Many of our guides also help with broader itinerary planning before the trip begins.
Can APGN book my whole safari, or just the guide?
Both. If you already have camps and flights arranged, or if you are a travel agent looking for a safari guide for your own trip, we can simply add a guide to your existing itinerary. If you are starting from scratch, our team can plan and book the full trip - accommodation, transfers, activities and a guide matched to your interests. We work with a range of camps and lodges across East and Central Africa and can advise on what suits your group's budget, travel style and timing.
How far in advance should I book?
For peak travel periods - the Great Migration and the Christmas and New Year period - we recommend booking at least six months in advance. Our guides are in high demand and have limited availability. For travel at quieter times of year, a lead time of four to eight weeks is usually sufficient. Get in touch as early as possible and we will confirm availability.
Press
Read about our guides and APGN in the press from across the world:
