Safari Tracker

In much of southern Africa, the tracker rides on a seat mounted on the front of the open vehicle, scanning the ground for prints while the guide drives and interprets. When fresh leopard or lion tracks appear, the tracker may follow them on foot while the vehicle waits, then direct it in once the animal is found. Many trackers grew up in communities bordering the reserves and bring deep, inherited bushcraft.

The guide-and-tracker team is a large part of why private reserves such as the Sabi Sand are known for close leopard sightings. In East Africa, guides more often drive and spot on their own. In Rwanda and Uganda, gorilla trackers head out early to locate each family, then radio its position to the guides leading visitors.

Trackers are usually tipped separately from guides; your lodge can advise on local customs. Learn more in what to expect at luxury safari lodges and our gorilla trekking guide.