ZECO TRAVEL TALK

We are delighted to welcome Simon Bellingham to the expedition leader team! Simon developed a passion for wildlife as a young child growing up in rural Zimbabwe where he fostered his love of the bush during holidays in remote regions such as Mana Pools National Park. Although he went on to obtain a Master’s Degree in Chiropractic, his passion for nature could not keep him away from the lure of the wilderness and he soon resigned from the comforts of life as a doctor for a career in wildlife.

He began guiding at Ngala Private Game Reserve and soon moved on to the prestigious Londolozi Reserve where his passion for natural history blossomed and he soon earned the rank of senior guide. Here he also had the opportunity to work with legendary trackers, such as Richard Khosa.

He has led mammal-focused wildlife trips in China (where he tracked Giant Panda), Brazil, and Antarctica; this gave him a broad-based knowledge and a wonderful understanding of mammal behavior. During his time Simon has guided many celebrities, most notably Kofi Anan, Mary Robinson, Graca Michel, Archbishop Desmond Tutu, and Richard Branson.

Simon currently lives in Kwa-Zulu Natal with his wife, Jenifer, who is a marine guide and his son, Marlin, and will soon be relocating to Cape Town. Simon loves guiding family tours and is very popular with children, his infectious enthusiasm combined with excellent field and people skills make traveling with him nothing but a delight.

Simon will accompany Zegrahm Director, Jonathan Roussouw, on our upcoming March and April Uganda Eco-Expeditions’ departures.