In the heart of Africa, where the wild thrives and the soul seeks solace, a remarkable journey began. Born in the picturesque landscapes of Nakuru, Kenya, Ian Batchelor was raised amidst the stunning beauty of Africa. At the tender age of five, his family relocated to Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe), marking the inception of his passion for the African wilderness.
His educational journey took him to the Universities of Cape Town and the Witwatersrand in South Africa. Here, he collected a rich bouquet of knowledge, earning a B.A. Degree and an Honors
Degree in International Relations, Strategic Studies, Industrial Psychology, and Languages. During this period, Ian also served as a Non-Commissioned Officer in a specialised Infantry unit within the South African Army.
After his university years, Ian embarked on a quest to deepen his connection with Africa’s wildlife. In 1991, he began training for his Zimbabwe Professional Guides License, a comprehensive guiding qualification recognized across the continent. This experience offered him a profound insight into the wilderness and kindled a lifelong passion for adventure.
Fast forward to 1994, Ian left Zimbabwe and took on guiding vehicle and walking safaris at Sabi Sabi Game Reserve in South Africa, further honing his skills. His journey then led him to Wilderness Safaris in Malawi and Eastern Zambia, where he held the Senior Guide position, catering to lodge management and guide training.
[ Read the full article – NZiRA Travel, Issue 29, 2023. pp 22-26 ]
