Adventure Travel with Ant Kaschula - Private Guided Safaris

Ant KaschulaFounderPrivate Guided SafarisI am a born & bred, fourth generation Zimbabwean who's professional guiding career spans more than two decades. I have travelled the length and breadth of the African continent and I have guided or lead safaris or expeditions in twenty-one different African countries.As the holder of the most highly respected professional guiding qualification in the world coupled with a Masters degree in Ecology and interests ranging from Botany, Bushcrafts & Fly Fishing to Entomology & Recreational Flying, provides me with the background to impart an incredible breadth & depth of knowledge to my guests.I am an ExCo member of the Zimbabwe Professional Guide's Association and am involved in ensuring the high levels of training and examining of the next generation of professional guides is maintained.I have a ceaselessly questioning mind and as per one of my mentor’s sayings – have, eyes for seeing and not just looking, which means that very little goes undetected by my radar and no stone is left unturned in my quest to provide my guests with that 'perfect moment’.In terms of being a specialist, I am most happy whilst leading walking safaris through big game areas and particularly enjoy spending time with elephants on foot.Having had the privilege of spending much of my adult life exploring the continent’s wildest landscapes, what has become more and more apparent are the threats faced by these rapidly diminishing refuges. Truly passionate and dedicated to the long term safeguarding of these areas, I tend to direct my support, and that of some of my  philanthropic guests, towards protected areas which are managed by organizations that are moving the needle in terms of protecting Africa’s remaining wild spaces.https://www.privateguidedsafaris.com/summaryAnt Kaschula, founder of Private Guided Safaris, shares his journey and passion for the African wilderness. He explains why he chose the name Private Guided Safaris instead of using his own name, highlighting the importance of providing a high level of service rather than focusing on an individual. Ant discusses his early experiences in the bush and how they shaped his career as a safari guide. He also talks about the boarding school experience and the strong bonds formed with friends during that time. Ant emphasizes the unique opportunities for walking safaris in Zimbabwe and the intimate and personal experiences they offer. Ant Kaschula emphasizes the importance of having a private guide on a safari trip, as they provide personalized service and create a unique and unforgettable experience. He highlights the value of staying in remote and exclusive locations, where guests can have a more intimate and authentic wildlife encounter. Ant also discusses the benefits of direct communication between the travel agent, the guide, and the clients, as it allows for better coordination and customization of the itinerary. He encourages travelers to be open-minded and trust the expertise of their guide when planning their safari adventure.takeawaysChoosing a business name that focuses on providing a high level of service rather than an individual can be beneficial for future growth and scalability.Early experiences in the bush can have a profound impact on shaping a career in safari guiding.Boarding school can provide unique opportunities for personal growth and strong friendships.Zimbabwe offers exceptional opportunities for walking safaris and intimate wildlife experiences.Luxury in the safari industry is not just about fancy amenities, but about the value and authenticity of the experience. Having a private guide on a safari trip provides personalized service and creates a unique and unfor Big World Made Small guest features are invitation-only and selected based on story, experience, and fit with the show. Guest support helps make the episode possible, but it does not determine who is featured. This helps keep the show free of third-party ads and interruptions while keeping the focus on real, story-driven conversations.Learn more about the Big World Made Small Adventure Travel Podcast and join our private community to get episode updates & special access to our guests.Are you a tourism expert with a story to share? Let's connect.