Meet Juma A.K.A. “Bushbaby” for his boundless energy and sharp nighttime eyes, Juma brings personality, passion, and years of experience to every safari. A natural storyteller and guest favorite, Juma is known for turning game drives into unforgettable adventures—always with a laugh, a Swahili phrase, and a deep respect for the wild.

What’s your most memorable wildlife sighting?
One sunrise in the Serengeti, we spotted a female leopard just meters from our vehicle—teaching her cub how to hunt. The patience between them, the lesson unfolding in silence, was mesmerizing. I kept the group quiet so we wouldn’t disturb them, whispering facts about leopard behavior. One guest said it was the highlight of their trip. Moments like that remind me why I love this work.

What’s one tip for travelers visiting Africa for the first time?
Embrace flexibility. Weather shifts, wildlife has its own schedule, and the best moments are often unplanned. I’ve had guests upset over a detour, only to witness a lion hunt or stumble into a village celebration. Go with the flow. As we say in Swahili, “Haraka haraka haina baraka”—rushing has no blessings.

What’s one thing most travelers don’t expect about going on safari?
How cold it gets at dawn! Everyone packs for heat, but those early morning drives in open vehicles? You’ll want gloves. And don’t get me started on safari hair! The dust, wind, and sun will humble your curls—bring a buff, and maybe don’t fight it. Also: bring extra camera batteries. You’ll shoot 500 photos before breakfast.

What’s one local phrase or word every safari-goer should know?
Hakuna matata! Yes, it’s real Swahili—and yes, it means “no worries.” Out here, it’s more than a phrase, it’s the spirit of safari life. Whether your coffee’s running late or an elephant blocks the road—just smile, relax, and let nature lead.

What’s your favorite national park or safari destination?
The Serengeti, always. There’s nothing like the Great Migration—thousands of wildebeest pounding the earth, crocodiles waiting at the river, and that raw tension you feel in your chest. But it’s not just the big moments. I love showing guests the “little” wonders—dung beetles, ant lions, birds in mid-flight. In the Serengeti, even the quietest things tell epic stories.