On World Ranger Day, we celebrate with the musings of one our guests’ favorite guides for many years, Hillary Manda. Born in a small town called Moshi, on the slope of Mount Kilimanjaro, he has since moved only a couple of hours away to Arusha, from where he takes guests from all over the world on explorations of Tanzania’s Northern parks and the Ngorongoro Crater.

While on safari he loves discussions with guests on different matters including sports, family issues, lifestyles, and sometimes, politics. He used to play soccer for fun but due to his busy schedule, he mostly watches the game nowadays. Otherwise, he spends his limited free time reading books and watching movies. He was inspired to become a safari guide by his family’s interest in nature and conservation. Starting out as a walking guide in various small camps 20 years ago, he has continued his studies and training to become the senior safari guide and naturalist he is today.

“I was born in a family where nature and conservation were part of our life. After finishing high school, I joined a college where I studied agriculture engineering, specializing in irrigation schemes and farm machinery design. I didn’t last long in this field before I decided to enroll at the College of African Wildlife Management and fulfilled my dreams. Many thanks to my uncle who used to be a professional hunter for his efforts and support because now I love conveying my knowledge and sharing experiences about wildlife and nature with my guests. The impact of our industry can be either negative or positive. It certainly creates employment opportunities and enhances the economy of the region by providing public services like water, education, and health facilities, but irresponsible practices create pollution and cause the loss of some natural habitats which increases the pressure on already endangered species 

I would encourage any young person who dreams of joining this industry but only if they are driven by a passion for nature and wildlife. Being a safari guide requires real passion and commitment. I obtained my training at the College of Africa Wildlife Management,  and apart from maintaining my FGASA Training level 2, I have expanded my knowledge with courses in everything from communication skills, first aid and Wilderness Medicine, to the Art of Guiding and Cultural Tourism, and continued FGASA online training. During the busy season, the most obvious way to stay updated on animal movements and changes in the environment is always by chatting with colleagues and observing the weather which is the key. We also share and exchange information with the authorities, researchers, and the TANAPA park rangers. 

I only speak two languages (English and Swahili) though I learned French but I never get to use it for a long time. Most of my clients came from the USA followed by Western Europe some from Scandinavian countries, and Asia. What I like about American guests, is that they seem to be more attuned to nature and open to asking questions and learning rather than just concentrating on taking pictures. They are usually more patient when we spot an animal, which increases our chances of seeing the action we all enjoy.  The advice I will give to first-time guests is to concentrate on what guides tell them and give their full cooperation. Let them forget what they have seen in documentaries on TV. Listen to the guide and enjoy the current experience.