Meet the People Behind Mont Eco: The Safari Guides

Every unforgettable safari at Réserve de chasse du Mont Eco begins long before the vehicle sets out.

It begins with a team whose deep respect for nature, passion for wildlife, and genuine care for every guest transform each journey into something truly memorable.

This month, as part of our “People of Mont Eco” series, we turn the spotlight on our guiding team — the heart of every safari experience and the storytellers of the wilderness.

For our safari guides, life in the bush isn’t just a career — it’s a calling.

Each member of the team followed a unique path to get here: some grew up surrounded by wildlife and knew early on that the bush was home, while others found their way through years of studying nature and sharing their knowledge with visitors from around the world.

What unites them is a shared love for the land and a deep respect for the creatures that call Mont Eco home.

As one guide says, “The unpredictable moments are what make this work so special. Every drive is different, and nature always has the final say.”

Every day on safari is a new story waiting to unfold.

Morning drives begin at 06:00, when the bush awakens with birdsong and golden light. Afternoon drives start at 17:00 during summertime, ending with breathtaking sunsets over the Klein Karoo mountains. Day visitors are welcomed at 09:00 et 14:00, with each game drive lasting around 2.5 to 3 hours.

Each outing is guided by instinct, experience, and deep respect for the wild.

Guests might track giraffes across open plains, pause to watch a herd of éléphants, or quietly observe smaller, lesser-known creatures that reveal the intricate balance of the ecosystem.

One of Mont Eco’s guiding principles is exclusivity and peace — only one vehicle is allowed per sighting.

As one of our safari guides explains, “Our animals are not caged or controlled. This isn’t a show — it’s nature as it’s meant to be.”

While spotting the Les cinq grands is a dream for many, Mont Eco’s guides offer something deeper. They are interpreters of nature, helping guests understand not just what they see — but how everything in the ecosystem connects.

Each drive begins with a thoughtful briefing to ensure comfort and safety. Respect for wildlife is at the heart of every experience: keeping a safe distance, speaking softly near animals, and never interrupting their natural behaviour.

Behind the scenes, the guiding team stays in constant contact with Mont Eco’s dedicated scouts, sharing updates on wildlife movement and ensuring both guest safety and animal wellbeing.

“Animals come first — their space is more important than anything else,” says one of our safari guides. “When guests see that the animals are relaxed and happy, they feel that same peace too.”

Au Réserve de chasse privée Mont Eco, conservation is not just a mission — it’s a daily practice.

Our safari guides play an essential role in ongoing sustainability efforts, from monitoring animal behaviour and assisting with tree planting to educating guests about our ecological projects.

They embody the Mont Eco ethos: offering guests luxury and comfort while ensuring the environment remains pristine and thriving.

Each guide shares insights not only about the wildlife, but also about the delicate balance of flora, climate, and terrain that makes this corner of the Klein Karoo so unique.

“We aim to create meaningful, personal experiences — helping guests connect not just with the animals, but with the environment as a whole,” shares one guide.

Every safari guide brings their own strengths — expert tracking, photography insight, storytelling, or engaging with children and families.

Chaque safari drive is tailored to the group’s interests — from waiting patiently for that perfect photo to explaining the secret habits of the reserve’s smaller residents.

Safety and comfort are always top priorities. Every vehicle is carefully prepared before departure, stocked with blankets, coolers, warm water bottles, and other thoughtful touches that make the experience both luxurious and effortless.

But what guests remember most is not only what they saw — it’s what they felt.

The laughter, curiosity, and shared moments of stillness in the wild create memories that linger long after the journey ends.

To help you plan your visit, our safari guides shared some of the most common questions guests ask before their first safari at Mont Eco.

What can guests expect to see on a game drive?

Every drive brings something different — from the dramatic sightings of the Les cinq grands to the smaller moments that make the bush come alive. Expect to see giraffe, hippo, antelope, and countless bird species. Sometimes, it’s the quiet encounters that become the most memorable.

How long do game drives last and what times are they offered?

Morning drives depart at 06:00 and afternoon drives at 17:00. Day visitors can join safaris at 09:00 and 14:00. Each drive lasts between 2.5 and 3 hours, allowing plenty of time to explore and enjoy refreshments in the wild.

How are game drives structured for lodge guests versus day visitors?

In-house guests enjoy dedicated drives in smaller groups, ensuring a private, tailored experience. Day visitors join scheduled safaris at specific times. Both enjoy the same expert guiding and access to the full reserve.

What makes Mont Eco’s safaris unique?

Mont Eco allows only one vehicle per sighting, giving guests uninterrupted moments with wildlife in their natural environment. As one of our guides says, “This isn’t a show — the animals lead, and we follow.” It’s an experience that feels intimate, ethical, and entirely authentic.

How do guides ensure the animals’ wellbeing during drives?

Respect comes first. Guides always maintain a safe distance, avoid unnecessary noise, and keep vehicle movement to a minimum. The team also works closely with Mont Eco’s scouts before each drive to ensure animals are not disturbed.

Can drives be adapted for photographers, families, or couples?

Absolutely. Our guides tailor each experience to the guests’ interests. For photographers, that might mean longer stops at prime moments; for families, it may include interactive learning about animal tracks and behaviour. Every drive is personal.

What should guests bring for their safari?

A hat, sunscreen, comfortable clothing, and a sense of adventure! Cameras and binoculars are recommended — but above all, come ready to disconnect, breathe deeply, and enjoy the rhythm of the wild.