NICHOLAS SMITH

Nick is always happy, Nick is especially happy if he has started his morning before sunrise with an excellent cup of coffee, birds chirping in the background and with the knowledge that he is about to head out into the African Bushveld on Game Drive. Nick loves many things, Birds, Elephants, Coffee and his Camera (in no particular order) but what Nick loves the most, is sharing the wonders and marvels of the African Continent with his guests!

Our Elephant Man with a Coffee obsession

Nick was born with wildlife in his blood. From a young age, he has always had an immense passion for the African Bush and its wild inhabitants. Visiting the Kruger National Park often with his parents as a child a deep love was born for all things wild and conservation. Nick attended a school with a very strong wildlife component on a wildlife estate in Hoedspruit, which allowed him to further explore and develop this passion - it was there that he knew that his future and passion was wildlife and private guiding.


With extensive experience guiding in the Makuleke Concession of the northern Kruger National Park, to exploring the Timbavati, Klaserie and other private reserves that make up the Greater Kruger National Park as well as further afield in regions such as Kwa-Zulu Natal and Botswana - Nick's enthusiasm and passion is unrivaled.


Nick has a strong intuitive side, that allows him to communicate and engage with guests from all walks of life in a sincere manner, and this in turn, allows him to tailor make his safari experiences for his guests, to ensure that they get a well balanced experience while on the continent. His holistic approach to life and animals gives his guests greater insight into the unique animal interactions that we are privileged to encounter on safari.


With a background in Hospitality - Nick is focussed on the overall experience, and gives his all to ensure that you, as his private client leaves happier and more fulfilled than when you arrived.


Nick is an avid birder, topping his personal life list at an impressive 558 species and you will often find him exploring remote areas in search of a new species and to improve his year list, year on year. Nick's talents are multi-faceted and he is an exceptional photographer, who takes his time with photographic guests to get that perfect shot! Having grown up in Africa - he is familiar with the unique African Light, and which settings will enable his guests to maximise their photographic opportunities while on Game Drive - he is also a pro at reading the subtle nuances of the wildlife to expertly position the vehicle for that once in a lifetime capture.


To Nick the bush is like a blank canvas and each game drive allows him to perfectly paint the picture of the delicate intricacies that make up the unique eco-systems in which he operates. All you need is a yearning for adventure, camera and an immense wanderlust (a good sense of humor helps too) and you are ready to embark on the journey of a lifetime.


Every day that Nick works in the African Bushveld is a day where he is able to live his dream, and you can bet that he will make the absolute most of it - always to the benefit of his guests.

Get to know your Guide - Nick Smith

  • If you could have any wild animal as a sidekick on your safaris, which one would it be and why?

    Undoubtedly be an elephant. These majestic creatures embody a unique blend of strength, wisdom, and gentle grace. Their presence would not only add an incredible sense of awe to our safaris but also symbolise the deep connection between humans and nature that I cherish. Plus, their keen intelligence and ability to navigate diverse landscapes would make them invaluable companions for exploring the wilderness

  • What's your all-time favourite safari destination, and what makes it so special to you?

    It has to be Makuleke, particularly the enchanting Pafuri region. What makes it so special to me is the unparalleled landscape diversity it offers. From the rugged beauty of Lanner Gorge to the serene and otherworldly fever tree forest, every moment spent in Makuleke feels like a profound connection with raw, untamed nature. It's a place where the wilderness speaks to your soul, and the sheer variety of wildlife and ecosystems is awe-inspiring. Makuleke/Pafuri is where I've had some of my most unforgettable safari experiences, and it continues to hold a special place in my heart


  • What's the most extraordinary wildlife encounter you've ever had while on a safari, and how did it leave an impact on you?

    The most extraordinary wildlife encounter is often one I believe I have yet to experience. Every safari presents the opportunity for something truly remarkable to unfold. It's the anticipation of the unknown, the potential for unexpected moments, and the endless wonder of nature that keep me returning to the wild. The beauty of safaris lies in their ability to surprise and humble us, making each journey a unique and potentially life-changing experience

  • Which safari experience do you find most exhilarating - tracking big cats, observing elephants at a waterhole, or bird-watching in a lush forest?

    It's indeed a difficult choice between spending time with my sidekick, the majestic elephant bull, and sitting all day at a waterhole, waiting to see what comes down. Both experiences offer their own brand of exhilaration. However, I find the mystery of the unknown to be most captivating. 


    There's something uniquely thrilling about the anticipation and patience involved in waiting at a waterhole, never knowing what might grace us with its presence. It's a reminder that in the wild, every moment is a surprise, and the enchantment of nature unfolds on its own terms.


  • If you had to sum up your passion for guiding and the wild in one sentence, what would it be?

    Connecting people with the wonders of nature, one unforgettable adventure at a time.

  • If you could have any superpower on safari, what would it be?

    The ability to talk to wildlife. There's a world of curiosity and wonder within the animal kingdom, and I have so many unanswered questions for them. Imagine having conversations with lions about their pride dynamics or discussing migration strategies with wildebeest. It would be an incredible opportunity to gain deeper insights into the secrets of the wild and foster an even greater connection with the creatures that make our safaris so extraordinary

  • What's the most unusual or funny wildlife behaviour you've ever witnessed?

    In the wilderness, I had the privilege of witnessing an incredible moment involving an elephant bull. As he dug into the earth with deliberate precision, I couldn't have anticipated what would unfold. With patience and a sense of deep contemplation, he unearthed a hidden root, an unassuming treasure buried beneath the soil.


    What transpired next was nothing short of remarkable. The elephant, with a gentleness that belied his massive frame, engaged in a subtle dialogue with the root. It was as though he understood the root's significance to the tree and the ecosystem as a whole.


    What truly left an indelible mark on me was his next action. After this profound interaction, he carefully covered the root back up, using his foot and trunk with remarkable finesse. It was a gesture that spoke volumes about his respect for the natural world.


    But the story didn't end there. The elephant, showing an almost purposeful intent, moved away to resume his digging. This time, his efforts unveiled another root, which he handled with the same meticulous care and reverence.


    In that extraordinary moment, I couldn't help but feel that this magnificent creature possessed a wisdom that transcended our human understanding. His actions were a poignant reminder that animals, too, share a deep connection with and an innate understanding of the world around them, often in ways that we can only begin to appreciate

  • If you were to lead a safari for your favourite celebrity, who would it be, and what kind of safari experience would you plan for them?

    If I were to lead a safari for my favourite celebrity, it would unquestionably be Sir David Attenborough. His lifelong dedication to wildlife and environmental conservation has been an inspiration to countless individuals, myself included. For him, I would plan a safari experience that delves deep into the heart of the natural world, providing opportunities to witness and document the wonders of the wild up close. It would be a journey of discovery, learning, and sharing the profound beauty of our planet. After all, on safari, I find we also have so much to learn from our guests as we share in the awe-inspiring moments of nature

  • Which destination is still on your bucket list and why?

    South Luangwa National Park. I've heard incredible tales of its pristine wilderness, abundant wildlife, and the raw beauty of the Luangwa River. It's a place known for its walking safaris, which offer a unique and intimate way to connect with the African bush. South Luangwa's reputation as a wildlife haven and the opportunity to explore its untamed landscapes make it an enticing destination I'm eager to experience

  • What legacy do you want to leave behind ?

    My legacy would be to leave a mindful and enduring connection between humans and Mother Nature. It's my hope that through our adventures and experiences, we cultivate a deeper appreciation and respect for the natural world. By fostering this connection, we can inspire others to protect and preserve the beauty and diversity of our planet for generations to come.

Dust on your boots, wind in your hair, and the wild in your heart – that's the promise of a safari waiting to be fulfilled.

No matter what your safari style is, we have the perfect private guide to take your journey with Martin Meyer Safaris to the next level.


If you are an expert birder or just a newbie we can elevate your experience to new heights.


Book a safari consult now and see how!

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