Gen Z safari guide swaps doomscrolling for life in the wild
Nel knew from an early age that he wanted to become a guide.
Gen Z safari guide Willem Nel, 28, has swapped endless hours of social media scrolling for an immersive life in the wild. The digitally obsessed generation often deemed dependent on screens finds solace in the great outdoors. Nel, a guide at Rhulani Safari Lodge in Madikwe Game Reserve, opts for the thrill of the bush over virtual distractions, claiming "the moment you sit in front of a screen, you lose time out in the bush."
His occupation offers an array of experiences, from cheetah sightings and bird calls to the unexpected presence of elephants in camp. The beauty of the bush transforms day and night, with animals becoming active, creating sounds, and birds filling the air. The rustic yet vibrant life of Madikwe is not without its challenges, such as when an elephant drinks from the swimming pool or when wild dogs hunt.
Despite these surprises, Nel remains captivated by the bush, having fallen in love with nature from a young age. Guiding is far more than just leading guests through safari drives; it involves hands-on tasks like cooking, bartending, and maintenance, alongside effective communication through Setswana radio calls to ensure the animals remain unaware of the visitors.
Nel's dedication to his craft is evident in his ability to form personal connections with the animals he guides, making their stories an integral part of the visitor experience. For Nel, guiding is about creating unforgettable moments and witnessing the joy on his guests' faces, reigniting the passion for Africa that resides within them.
Written by urgent.news from The Citizen's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
