Andrew Smith Safaris
Private guided & tailor-made adventures into the African wilderness
About : Andrew, journey into the Wilderness
Andrew is born and raised in Harare, Zimbabwe’s capital. After leaving school he pursued a career in the safari. For more than two decades Andrew has been guiding in Southern Africa, later his passion for the bush and all things wild is stronger than ever. Andrew’s love for the bush is shared by his wife, Clea and children.
Andrew started his career in the world famous Hwange National Park. Following this, Andrew expanded his knowledge of Zimbabwe’s parks by working in Matusadona, Mana Pools & Gonarezhou Whilst working in these areas Andrew had the privilege of being the understudy of some of Zimbabwe’s best professional guides for four years, who imparted their invaluable experience.
During this training, Andrew built a strong foundational knowledge in Environmental Ethics, Flora and Fauna, tracking Africa's mega fauna on foot and even some Mechanics for the moments when things go wrong in camp. Andrew also contributed to various communities – assisting farmers by chasing crop-raiding elephants out of maze fields; scientists, in the dead of night, with the darting of lions for research; and conservationists with the removal of wire snares. He has also ploughed back into the industry he is so enthusiastic about by working with children and apprentice guides on educational camps. Andrew also participated in game capture operations with the Zimbabwean National Parks – safely capturing giraffe and Cape Buffalo from Umtchibi, Hwange National Park to be relocated.
Andrew obtained his full Zimbabwean Guides Licence in 2004 and has since worked for some of Africa's leading safari companies Andrew’s safaris are focused on ‘photographic stalking’ – tracking animals and teaching guests how to make the most of the available light, scenery and wildlife for the perfect photograph; with a specialty in tracking lions.
Andrew mainly guides in Southern Africa and has knowledge of neighboring countries as he has guided in Zimbabwe, Zambia, Botswana, Namibia, South Africa, Mozambique & Chad.
Taking his passion to a new level, Andrew helped an enthusiastic bush loving couple, Clyde & Leah with the filming of “Predators’ Playground”, a documentary screened on various wildlife channels. This documentary was filmed on foot, so the assistance of a knowledgeable and safe guide was essential to the team – giving them the peace of mind needed for them to be able to get ‘stuck into’ the all important task of filming the incredible scenes Andrew helped them to find. On the odd occasion climbing trees to avoid fleeing Cape Buffalo being predated upon by lions was required!
Andrew was awarded a prestigious award in 2020 to his commitment to the safari industry as a whole.
"Outstanding Professional Guide In Zimbabwe"
Andrew’s guiding has taken him through various wildlife sanctuaries in the sub-region, but his passion lies in Zimbabwe – his ‘home away from home’! There, he continues to expand his horizons and knowledge of Africa. Andrew’s understanding of the diverse habitats and species, and their day-to-day interactions, will ensure that your safari in the African bush will be one that you will never forget – the experience stays with you through your photographs – memories and moments that will last a lifetime.
