Ultimate Safaris invests in global guide exchange (AGRIMONITOR)

For the third time in a row, Ultimate Safaris invested in an international guide exchange program, helping Namibian guides learn from others around the world, improving their skills and knowledge.The company has spent over N$300 000 on this programme since it started. This year, Jason Nengula, Ultimate Safaris’ 2024 Ultimate Guide of the Year, travelled to Baja California, Mexico, for a three-week immersion experience with Todos Santos Eco Adventures. The exchange underscores a shared mission between the two companies to empower guides, foster cross-cultural conservation practices, and celebrate the ecosystems they passionately protect.“The guide swap initiative is a great opportunity for interaction and learning between people on different sides of the world who may have differing geographies, wildlife, and weather—but who share the same dedication to conservation and community,” said Tristan Cowley, co-founder and managing director of Ultimate Safaris.According to Ultimate Safaris, Nengula's journey from Namibia’s vast deserts to Mexico’s vibrant marine ecosystems was nothing short of transformative. From snorkelling and scuba diving to whale watching and leather-making from cactus, Nengula embraced new perspectives—both professionally and personally.“Imagine Damaraland with an ocean,” Nengula said. “Being a guest, not a guide, helped me understand how our guests must feel. It was a humbling and eye-opening experience.”Nengula encountered four species of whales—Blue, Humpback, Fin, and Grey—an awe-inspiring highlight that shifted his perspective on control, nature, and the role of a guide, said Ultimate Safaris. In addition to nature-based activities, the exchange allowed Nengula to explore Mexico’s strong connection to its local culture and cuisine—an experience that left a lasting impression.“In Namibia, we have so many rich cultures and traditions to share,” he said. “The food in Mexico inspired me to think about how we can better incorporate Namibian cuisine into our guest experiences.”Later this year, a Mexican guide will travel to Namibia for the next chapter of this growing partnership, continuing the spirit of knowledge-sharing, cultural appreciation, and environmental stewardship.The Ultimate Safaris and Todos Santos Eco Adventures guide exchange initiative represents a model for global collaboration in eco-tourism—building not only better guides, but stronger bridges between continents, cultures, and conservation efforts.

Ultimate Safaris invests in global guide exchange (AGRIMONITOR)

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Namibian Sun 2025-05-02

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Ultimate Safaris invests in global guide exchange (AGRIMONITOR)

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Namibian Sun 2025-05-02

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