Simon Stobbs

After completing a post-graduate degree in psychology, Simon was stuck behind a computer, working in human resources for two rather painful years. Thankfully, he decided that it was time to follow his passion for nature and pursue a career in the African bush. He started working as a guide in a private game reserve adjacent to Kruger National Park in 1999, and after five years he was so successful at guiding that he was hired to train up-and-coming guides out of Johannesburg. But naturally, after just one year he could not resist the call of the bush once again and returned to where he has been leading small specialty safari groups ever since. Since those early years in southern Africa where Simon became one of the region's most knowledgeable experts, his guiding focus has expanded to east and central Africa as well. As a Nat Hab "Hall of Fame" Expedition Leader, Simon shares his interests in wildlife and photography with our guests in a variety of the continent's most remote locales.

Praise from Nat Hab travelers:

K. Taylor
“We cannot say enough about the excellence of Simon as our guide. He not only is an expert bush guide with a thorough knowledge of the animals and plants of Africa; he was exceptional at being able to convey the information to us in an interesting, thought-provoking manner. He also did an exceptional job at coordinating and making sure the trip ran smoothly. He is personal and a joy to be with. He is obviously passionate about his work. We would highly recommend him as a guide to any other travelers. A couple from South Africa went on four safari drives with us, with Simon as the guide. I think what they said to me about Simon as a guide sums it up better than I could say it. They said that they have been going on different safaris for over thirty years in different African countries, and that Simon was the best guide that they have ever had. My wife (who is standing behind me) is tearing up thinking about the trip and how lucky we were to have Simon as our guide."

C. Burak
“Simon is a gentleman and a scholar. He helped me through my fear of planes and was a treat.”

R. Hestand
“Simon was an outstanding guide. He made sure we had the best local guides and trackers. He also arranged surprise entertainment, meals in special places and made everyone a CD of their trip."

J. Smith
"Our guide Simon was without question the best guide we have ever experienced on any trip anywhere in the world."

B. Kiel
"Simon was particularly outstanding. His expertise and social skills greatly added to our group's experience."