Personal Philosophy and Vision:
David describes himself as a passionate, empathetic, and hands-on individual. His guiding style, combined with his love for photography and all things natural, allows him to create unique and unforgettable experiences for his guests. With over 25 years of private guiding experience, David’s extensive knowledge and enthusiasm for the natural world continue to inspire those around him.
Adventures and Hobbies:
David’s most cherished adventure was an 18-day exploration of the Falkland Islands, South Georgia, and the Antarctic Peninsula, where he witnessed an abundance of bird and mammal life, including thousands of penguins and elephant seals. He also enjoys traveling to exotic destinations like Raja Ampat in Indonesia and various locations in South Africa.
In his free time, David engages in photography, painting, drawing, music, fly fishing, scuba diving, snorkelling, hiking, and fitness. His passion for travel and new experiences continues to drive his explorations.
Notable Experiences:
One of David’s career highlights was attending the Expedition Leader (Guide) Conference in Moab, Utah, in 2004, which led to guiding expeditions in the Canadian Arctic. He recalls an extraordinary encounter in the Okavango Delta where he and a guest witnessed a pair of leopards mating whilst on a walk, an event that remains one of his most memorable wildlife sightings.
Favourite Wildlife and Food:
David’s favourite wildlife includes the charismatic great apes, big cats, and the elusive Pel’s Fishing Owl. When it comes to food, he enjoys thin crust pizza and Indian curry, reflecting his diverse tastes and adventurous spirit.
David Luck
A Passionate Naturalist and Expedition Leader
Background and Early History:
Born in Johannesburg, South Africa in 1961 and raised in Zambia, David Luck’s youth was steeped in the wilderness. Accompanying his father, Chairman of the Zambian Wildlife Society, on numerous bush adventures, David developed a deep passion for wildlife and its intricate ecosystems. His early years were filled with explorations of the bush, collecting chameleons and snakes with his brother, and later joining anti-poaching patrols to protect elephants and rhinos in North Luangwa. These experiences laid the foundation for his future career.
Education and Qualifications:
David holds several prestigious qualifications, including:
– Level 3 Wilderness Safaris Guide (FGASA endorsed)
– Level 3 Wilderness Walking and Weapons Proficiency (FGASA endorsed)
– Natural Habitat Adventures “Hall of Fame” inductee
Guiding Experience:
David’s professional journey as a guide began in 1986 in Zimbabwe’s Matusadona National Park. He later moved to Malawi, guiding on Lake Malawi and its outlying islands, before settling in Botswana at the end of 1998. Over his extensive career, David has guided in various African countries including Tanzania, Madagascar, Botswana, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Zambia, South Africa, Uganda, and Rwanda. His international experience also includes leading expeditions in the Canadian Arctic, where he led trips to photograph polar bears and other Arctic wildlife.
Achievements and Recognitions:
David’s dedication to guiding and wildlife conservation has earned him numerous accolades, including a “Hall of Fame” award from Natural Habitat Adventures in 2006. His work has been featured in various publications promoting tourism in Botswana.
Specialties and Interests:
A well-rounded naturalist, David has a specific interest in birding, elephants, primates, and predators. He specializes in family-oriented safaris and small group departures focused on photography. His favourite animals include the great apes, big cats, and elephants, and he has a particular fondness for orchids.
David Luck
A Passionate Naturalist and Expedition Leader
Personal Philosophy and Vision:
David describes himself as a passionate, empathetic, and hands-on individual. His guiding style, combined with his love for photography and all things natural, allows him to create unique and unforgettable experiences for his guests. With over 25 years of private guiding experience, David’s extensive knowledge and enthusiasm for the natural world continue to inspire those around him.
Adventures and Hobbies:
David’s most cherished adventure was an 18-day exploration of the Falkland Islands, South Georgia, and the Antarctic Peninsula, where he witnessed an abundance of bird and mammal life, including thousands of penguins and elephant seals. He also enjoys traveling to exotic destinations like Raja Ampat in Indonesia and various locations in South Africa.
In his free time, David engages in photography, painting, drawing, music, fly fishing, scuba diving, snorkelling, hiking, and fitness. His passion for travel and new experiences continues to drive his explorations.
Notable Experiences:
One of David’s career highlights was attending the Expedition Leader (Guide) Conference in Moab, Utah, in 2004, which led to guiding expeditions in the Canadian Arctic. He recalls an extraordinary encounter in the Okavango Delta where he and a guest witnessed a pair of leopards mating whilst on a walk, an event that remains one of his most memorable wildlife sightings.
Favourite Wildlife and Food:
David’s favourite wildlife includes the charismatic great apes, big cats, and the elusive Pel’s Fishing Owl. When it comes to food, he enjoys thin crust pizza and Indian curry, reflecting his diverse tastes and adventurous spirit.
Background and Early History:
Born in Johannesburg, South Africa in 1961 and raised in Zambia, David Luck’s youth was steeped in the wilderness. Accompanying his father, Chairman of the Zambian Wildlife Society, on numerous bush adventures, David developed a deep passion for wildlife and its intricate ecosystems. His early years were filled with explorations of the bush, collecting chameleons and snakes with his brother, and later joining anti-poaching patrols to protect elephants and rhinos in North Luangwa. These experiences laid the foundation for his future career.
Education and Qualifications:
David holds several prestigious qualifications, including:
– Level 3 Wilderness Safaris Guide (FGASA endorsed)
– Level 3 Wilderness Walking and Weapons Proficiency (FGASA endorsed)
– Natural Habitat Adventures “Hall of Fame” inductee
Guiding Experience:
David’s professional journey as a guide began in 1986 in Zimbabwe’s Matusadona National Park. He later moved to Malawi, guiding on Lake Malawi and its outlying islands, before settling in Botswana at the end of 1998. Over his extensive career, David has guided in various African countries including Tanzania, Madagascar, Botswana, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Zambia, South Africa, Uganda, and Rwanda. His international experience also includes leading expeditions in the Canadian Arctic, where he led trips to photograph polar bears and other Arctic wildlife.
Achievements and Recognitions:
David’s dedication to guiding and wildlife conservation has earned him numerous accolades, including a “Hall of Fame” award from Natural Habitat Adventures in 2006. His work has been featured in various publications promoting tourism in Botswana.
Specialties and Interests:
A well-rounded naturalist, David has a specific interest in birding, elephants, primates, and predators. He specializes in family-oriented safaris and small group departures focused on photography. His favourite animals include the great apes, big cats, and elephants, and he has a particular fondness for orchids.
