Gareth Poole

Every safari is an invitation to reconnect, to the earth, to the wild, and to that deep sense of belonging that only the untamed can awaken. Among leopards and wild horizons, I’ve found my purpose, to share the wonder that only true wilderness can give.

The elusive and sometimes mysterious Leopard is my connection to everything that embodies Africa. Unmatched beauty, raw power, and a patient understanding of nature and how it is all connected.

No larger than a man’s hand, the African Scops Owl disappears into bark and shadow, a master of camouflage, whose soft trill call is the heartbeat of the night.

To watch the critically endangered African Wild Dog on the hunt is to witness the rhythm of unity, a harmony of purpose, loyalty, and wild intelligence that is incredible to observe.

To watch a Cheetah explode after its prey is to witness perfection in motion, nature’s purest expression of focus, balance, and fleeting beauty.

To look into the eyes of a Mountain Gorilla, this immense primate, is to see the soul of the forest itself, strength wrapped in serenity, reminding us that true connection needs no words.

One of Africa's most prehistoric and forceful beings—the endangered Black Rhino's feisty nature is something to behold.

Expedition Leader Gareth Poole

With a keen eye, calm presence, and a passion for Africa’s wild spaces, Gareth is a highly respected safari wildlife guide. Over the past 15 years, he has guided guests across premier wilderness regions in both East Africa and Southern Africa, developing an exceptional understanding of diverse ecosystems and animal behavior.

Gareth’s guiding style blends vast ecological knowledge with an ability to interpret tracks, calls, and subtle bush signs in real time, offering guests safe yet thrilling encounters with iconic species. Renowned for his professionalism and ethical guiding approach, he creates meaningful, educational experiences for first-time travellers and seasoned safari enthusiasts alike.

Beyond guiding, Gareth has been involved in numerous conservation projects focused on rhino protection, elephant management, and leopard monitoring, working alongside researchers, vets, and anti-poaching teams to support the preservation of endangered wildlife.

Gareth’s warm personality, engaging storytelling, and patient approach ensure an authentic and memorable journey.

"Our two weeks on safari proved beyond expectation. Gareth’s skill and knowledge as a guide was incredibly impressive. My brothers and I are all birders, and as soon as a bird would sing or call from the bush, Gareth would immediately identify it. By the end of our trip, Gareth was the fourth brother we didn’t know we had. Can’t wait till our next safari together."

-Derrick R., New York

Gareth's Expeditions

India Wildlife (March 14 – 28, 2026) green arrow linking to India Wildlife

India's cultural and scenic diversity forms the backdrop to Asia's finest wildlife watching, highlighted by Bengal Tiger, Sloth Bear, Greater One-horned Rhinoceros, and Asian Elephant.

Uganda (May 3 – 15, 2026) green arrow linking to Uganda

Chimp tracking and Nile wildlife watching are combined with Bwindi Impenetrable Forest’s endangered Mountain Gorillas on this comprehensive exploration.

India's Snow Leopards (February 17 – 27, 2027) green arrow linking to India's Snow Leopards

In Ladakh’s remote mountain valleys, track the elusive Snow Leopard, while spotting ibex, wolves, and eagles, amid the vast Himalayan wilderness.

Ask Gareth a question about his upcoming expeditions?

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Panthera Pardus—A Most Exquisite Predator.

Leopards are the embodiment of stealth and mystery. Through years of experience, I’ve developed an instinct for interpreting their subtle signs, predicting their movements, and helping guests experience one of nature’s most elusive predators. The species is vulnerable, with a drop in population of over 30% in the last three decades, having lost 75% of their natural range. South Africa & Zambia's private wilderness concessions offer some of the best Leopard viewing in the world and are my areas of expertise when it comes to tracking & photographing this amazing cat.