Peter Kamau

Born in 1979 at the foothills of Kilimambogo - locally known as Buffalo Mountain - in Kenya, Peter Kamau’s connection to the natural world began early. Raised by parents who were both primary school teachers, he grew up in an environment that valued learning, curiosity and respect for the land.

His first meaningful encounter with wildlife came during his primary school years through the Wildlife Clubs of Kenya (WCK). It was there that Peter first looked through a pair of binoculars to admire a bird - a simple moment of awe that quietly set his life’s direction. That early exposure grew into a lifelong passion for the wild and ultimately shaped his career in guiding and guide training.

Although his parents hoped he would pursue teaching, Peter followed his calling into tourism. After completing high school, he trained in Tour Guiding and Administration and later studied German at the Goethe-Institut, deepening his cultural understanding and strengthening his ability to connect with international travelers.

Peter’s career in the bush has been both profound and demanding. He has tracked wounded lions in tall grass, been treed by elephant, rhino, and Cape buffalo, charged by hippos, stalked by hyena and wild dogs, and crossed crocodile-infested luggas in the Maasai Mara during anti-poaching and de-snaring patrols. These experiences shaped a guide with exceptional field skills, steady judgment and deep respect for wildlife.

When the COVID-19 pandemic brought tourism to a standstill in 2020, Peter used the pause to invest in his future. He completed FGASA training, earning NQF Level 2, NQF Level 4, and Trails Guide qualifications, formally stepping into the role of guide trainer. In 2024, he joined Saruni Basecamp, focusing fully on mentorship and training, and later founded Campfire Training Company, delivering custom training programs for local guides.

Peter’s work extends beyond guiding into conservation and community engagement. He has been actively involved in habitat restoration, reforestation, anti-poaching patrols, wildlife rescue operations and citizen science initiatives including MaKenya (Mammal Atlas Kenya) and Kenya Birds Trend. He has collaborated closely with Kenya Wildlife Service, David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, Mara Conservancy, and other conservation partners. He has travelled across Europe visiting The Netherlands and Cyprus and The USA for training and conferences.

Home location: Kenya

Guides in: East Africa

Languages: English, German

Daily rate: $$