A safari is not only about the animals you see. It is also about the person beside you who helps bring the wilderness to life.
The guide who notices the smallest movement in the grass. Who understands the behaviour of the animals. Who knows when to move on and when to wait, because something magical might happen.
On our safaris in Tanzania, one of these guides is Madeal Simba.
Madeal is a professional chief safari guide with more than 25 years of experience. He was born at the foothills of Kilimanjaro, where his love for animals began as a child. A love he describes as endless. Today, he uses that passion to show travellers the beauty of Tanzania – and, in his own words, to help make dreams come true.
What do you love most about your job?
“When guests come with expectations and then these expectations are fulfilled. And to show the importance of nature and wildlife and why it is important to preserve both.”
What is your favourite place to show travellers and why?
“It is a difficult question as we have so many beautiful things to show. We have Ngorongoro, Tarangire, Manyara, but Serengeti is at the top of the list. Serengeti is my favourite place, because of the vastness and the endless savannah.”
What is the most unforgettable wildlife experience you’ve had?
“I have had quite a few, but one stands out. An elephant and a lion – normally fierce enemies - saying hello to each other. The elephant said hello with the trunk and the lion was high-fiving it with a paw. Amazing. Enemies can come together. I have only seen it once and I do not think it has ever been seen before nor again.”
What is the most rewarding moment you’ve experienced as a guide?
“An 86-year-old guest went on safari with me. When she saw a giraffe, she started crying. I asked her why she was crying and whether something was wrong. Her answer was: “These are tears of joy. This is a dream come true. A dream I have had since I was 6 years old.”
What do you hope travellers take home with them – beyond photos?
"Memories of a lifetime and something they will keep forever. The best camera is the mind."
Behind every great safari is a great guide. For our guests in Tanzania, Madeal is one of the people who help turn our tours into memories that last long after they return home.
TourCompass – From tourist to traveller
