SafariWise Tours and Safaris in southern Africa: about us

SafariWise is owned and managed by two of southern Africa's leading naturalists: Neil MacLeod and Johan van Tonder.

Neil MacLeod
Neil is the founder of SafariWise. He started off as a freelance guide in Namibia before taking the plunge on his own in 1992, offering tours to friends of friends. The business took off! Little did he know that his name would become synonymous with adventurers, wildlife lovers and more specialized interests like bird watching. Neil has expanded his phenomenal birding knowledge to include wildlife, plants and almost everything to do with the natural world. Working with people is second nature to Neil. His visitors can’t speak highly enough of him. He sets the standard for personalized eco holidays and creates memories that are never to be forgotten. Neil runs operations in Namibia and leads tours into Botswana, Zambia and Namibia.

Johan van Tonder
A short detour took Johan into engineering before he joined forces with Neil to launch SafariWise in 1999. Growing up in the Western Cape, Johan spent his youth outdoors absorbing the names and habits of birds, plants and animals. It is here where he gained his passion for wildlife birds and guiding. His client reports are excellent and reflect his dedication to their enjoyment, education and safety. Johan runs operations in South Africa and leads tours into Lesotho, Madagascar, Mozambique, and of course his own country.

We have developed a solid reputation for high quality, intimate tours and safaris. Many of our clients return as friends to discover more of the diversity and beauty of Africa with us.

While Johan and Neil still lead most of their safaris to this day, they have a senior part-time walking, talking encyclopaedia by the name of Charles Rhyn. Charlie guided for that same large safari company specialising in tracking desert elephants and black rhino. He joined SafariWise in 2003 and, with the tutelage of Neil and Johan, has earned a devoted following and high praise from his clients.

Melakia Nghishoono is our indispensable and industrious camp assistant in Namibia. He goes in front of the safari and sets up camp in the most beautiful and remote places. His traditional cooking, easy smile and helpful nature has earned him much respect and admiration.

When things get busier, SafariWise employs only the best professional freelance guides, who are experts in their fields, to conduct specialist tours and safaris.

About Us