Brian Batsurana

Brian was born and raised in Katwe village, deep within the heart of Queen Elizabeth National Park in southwestern Uganda. Surrounded by wildlife and wilderness from an early age, Brian’s path as a nature guide was forged through a deep connection to the land and a passion for sharing its wonders with others. He is a professional and highly skilled private guide and wildlife photographer, holding a Diploma in Wildlife Tourism Management from the Uganda Wildlife Research and Training Institute. His training also includes FGASA NQF2 and BQA Level 2 certifications in Nature Guiding from the prestigious African Guide Academy in Botswana.

With years of experience guiding across Uganda and Rwanda, Brian is especially passionate about introducing guests to the great apes of East Africa. Guiding gorilla and chimpanzee treks is not just a profession for him - it’s a calling. He describes every encounter with these incredible primates as humbling and awe-inspiring, and considers it an honour to guide guests through the misty forests of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Mgahinga, and Nyungwe, offering them a front-row seat to some of the most extraordinary wildlife experiences on Earth.

Brian's knowledge of birds, mammals, reptiles, butterflies, plant life, and local culture is extensive, and his natural ability to interpret the wild weaves scientific insight with storytelling in a way that leaves a lasting impression. His guests often describe their time with him as transformative, full of laughter, learning, and deeply moving moments in the wilderness.

Fluent in English and ten indigenous languages - including Kiswahili, the regional lingua franca - Brian is able to seamlessly connect with both local communities and international travellers. His linguistic abilities open doors to deeper cultural exchange, while his flexibility, warmth, and ever-present smile create an easygoing and welcoming atmosphere on every safari. He is in the process of learning Spanish to connect with travellers from a wider demographic.

Whether birdwatching along the Kazinga Channel, tracking lions across the Ishasha plains, or guiding once-in-a-lifetime gorilla treks in the Virunga volcanoes, Brian brings unmatched enthusiasm, care, and professionalism to every adventure.

Home location: Uganda

Guides in: Uganda & Rwanda

Languages: English, learning Spanish

Daily rate: $