Our Story

Thuto Moutloatse

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Named "Best Safari Guide on the Planet" in Outside magazine’s Travel Awards, Thuto Moutloatse's life has evolved around wildlife. His passion for nature runs so deep that one of his guests once observed, “He seems to really understand the profound position he is in—that he lives our ‘trip of a lifetime' every single day.”

As a result of his father’s involvement in tourism and conservation, Thuto had the privilege of growing up in pristine natural areas of Botswana, which fostered a childhood love of the wild. He continued to hone his bush skills and passion for wilderness through hiking and horseback riding while attending Treverton College in the foothills of the Drakensberg Mountains in neighboring South Africa.

Following graduation, Thuto completed a Travel & Tourism course, undertook volunteer work at Hluhluwe Imfolozi Game Reserve, then returned to Botswana, beginning his career at Khama Rhino Sanctuary. He then spent four years as a lodge-based guide in the private Linyanti Concession. To feed his insatiable interest in Botswana’s diverse ecosystems, Thuto began leading safaris that spanned the country's mosaic of prolific wildlife regions, enhancing his natural sense for guiding and furthering his personable rapport with guests.

Thuto’s extensive knowledge of birding, tracking and wildlife photography, combined with his larger-than-life personality, have earned him frequent guiding requests from repeat guests from around the world.There is a never a dull moment with Thuto: he may have you down on your hands and knees looking at tiny critters, tracking big game on foot, or enjoying “breakfast-on-a-spade” or dinner under the stars. After going on safari with Thuto, guests return home with new knowledge and a new friend. But while you are with him in the moment, be sure to ask him about Tour de Tuli and why he loves seafood so much…

Thuto is an accomplished photographer, leading photographic safaris throughout Africa while sharing his technical expertise with guests. 

What's in My Camera Bag

My Packing Philosophy

Canon R7 body and the 70–200mm are must-haves. A wide angle for landscapes and star shots, plus the 100–400mm for reach.

Cameras
Canon R7
Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III

Lenses
Canon 100–400mm f/4
Canon 70–200mm f/2.8
Canon wide-angle lens
Olympus 14–150mm f/4–5.6 II
Olympus 40–150mm f/2.8
Olympus 300mm f/2.8

What Our Guests Say

Holy Cow, Thuto is amazing! He’s authentic, caring, intelligent, and engaging. I am so grateful that I had the opportunity to spend time with him! He is a true gem. He is beyond intelligent, and he taught me new things every day, with a caring and thoughtful disposition. I’m spoiled by his leadership and guidance, and I’m not sure anyone can top him when it comes to being an amazing Expedition Leader.
Camie K.
Thuto is a wealth of ecological knowledge, the emotional intelligence and kindness that is so important in an Expedition Leader, and is a phenomenal photo guide. For photography, he has a knack for walking guests with different skill levels and interests through getting the shot. As someone who was brand new to using a "real" camera and futzing with settings, Thuto taught me nearly 100% of what I know about photography. I learned so much from him over the course of the trip and am infinitely grateful. His enthusiasm is totally infectious and I learned so much every day. I’m truly grateful to have gotten to travel with him. He’s such an asset to Nat Hab, and we are exceptionally fortunate to have worked with him!
Emma V.
If you had a higher rating, I'd give him that. Thuto was awesome!!!!! Knowledgeable, fun, and he truly loves his job. He made the trip one of the best trips of my life! I would love to go on another trip with him. I can't say enough good things about him. Always smiling, happy, knew everything about the wildlife, camera settings, everything! We could not have had a better guide!
Cindy M.