Ian Kriek

Ian has always been happiest with a map, some time, and somewhere interesting to go. Growing up as the eldest of three, his adventurous parents took the family on self-drive trips through Southern Africa. These days, he and his partner still favour the road less travelled, seeking out lesser-known corners of the continent and beyond. Now, after 22 years in travel, he loves navigating the planning process with his guests, guiding them in the direction of their dream journey. He’s a good listener and has developed a strong sense of where different kinds of trips tend to work best, often pointing first-time safari-goers towards Southern Africa and returning guests further east. On safari, Ian is all about the experience beyond the wildlife: the people, food, wine, and lodge that make a trip memorable. His favourite place on a game drive is at the back of the vehicle for the elevated view, where he can flex his spotting skills. And unlike some of his colleagues, Ian will swap one out for a spa treatment every now and then. For him, a great safari leaves room for both.