About alan

​After 30 years in the saddle, Alan continues to break new ground as a wilderness guide and has become one of a handful of operators to lead pioneering safaris to Zakouma National park in Chad.

Once a permanent resident of the Okavango Delta in Botswana, Alan co-pioneered a series of unsupported, exploratory dugout canoe traverses of the delta. Each traverse lasted for four weeks and in the process he has racked up over 3000 kms by dugout.

Alan’s deep understanding of the wild and his readiness to share it with all who are interested makes him a much sought after wildlife educator and he spends a lot of time between safaris training guides. But it is not just his knowledge and experience that makes spending time on safari with him so special; it is also his gentle, self-effacing manner, sense of humour and relaxed character that makes it such a treasured event.

He is an established motivational speaker and has travelled extensively advocating leadership and conservation at numerous European forums and is a TEDx speaker. As a passionate elephant conservationist, Alan is well known for his knowledge of these remarkable animals, and constantly strives to raise the bar of awareness.

A lifetime of exploration and discovery, not to mention the traditional knowledge of baYei, Bushman, Herero and Shangaan trackers and guides have made lasting impressions. Wilderness, therefore, is no longer a place but a way of life, and he remains committed sharing meaningful encounters with nature and people.

Alan lives in Hoedspruit, SA, with his wife Sarah and two children, Jake and Meg.

​​All rights reserved. Alan McSmith 2019