ABOUT
MY STORY
Where it all began
My name is Valentin Lavis and I am a safari guide in Africa, but above all I have been passionate about nature since a very young age.
It all started when I was 5 and had the chance to discover South Africa with my parents on a safari in the Kruger National Park. That trip left a lasting impression on me and confirmed my desire to work with the wildlife.
A PASSION
For the love of the bush
Add to that the Daktari series, which I grew up watching, and numerous wildlife documentaries, and it was impossible for me to live without the bush.
Since 2006 I've been coming back to Africa several times a year, particularly to South Africa and Namibia, where I've had a number of professional experiences in lodges and nature reserves such as Harnas, Thanda and Mopaya (to name but a few).
MY JOURNEY
From biologist to safari guide
Wanting to play a role in the protection of African species in their natural environment, I did a master's degree in biology in Paris, specialising in conservation ecology. But I never gave up on Africa, because at the same time I wanted to get my safari guide qualifications in South Africa.
Although I am still very attached to my Rainbow Nation, I had a growing desire to discover other African destinations. I decided to explore Kenya, Zambia and Tanzania for longer periods over the last few years.
TODAY
Sharing is caring
Over the last 10 years of experience, I have been able to acquire some expertise in the fauna and flora in 6 African countries: South Africa, Botswana, Kenya, Namibia, Tanzania and Zambia. .
A safari is a unique and privileged experience and my goal is to share with you not only my knowledge, but also moments and emotions that can only be experienced while immersed in the African savannah.
My qualifications
Safari guide diploma accredited throughout Africa
FGASA Level 1
walking guide diploma to guide walking safaris in the Big Five area
Back up Trails
firearms handling, an essential for guiding bushwalks
Advanced Rifle Handling (ARH)
diploma for identifying tracks and signs left by animals during a walking safari
Track & Signs Lv3
Safari guide diploma accredited throughout Africa
FGASA Level 1
walking guide diploma to guide walking safaris in the Big Five area
Back up Trails
firearms handling, essential for guiding bushwalks
Advanced Rifle Handling (ARH)
diploma for identifying tracks and signs left by animals during a walking safari
Track & Signs Lv3
* I was lucky enough to test a number of new Sony products (including the Sony A7SIII, A7RV, 400mm F2.8 and 135mm F1.8) on wildlife projects.
Lenses
* I have also had the chance to test a number of new Sony cameras (including the Sony A7SIII, A7RV, 400mm F2.8 and 135mm F1.8) on wildlife projects.
After growing up with different camcorders and cameras, I finally decided to work with Sony, which has now become my travel partner.
Here are the main equipment used for safari and lodge shooting:
My gear
My gear
After growing up with different camcorders and cameras, I finally decided to work with Sony, which has now become my travel partner.
Here are the main equipment used for safari and lodge shooting:
My lenses
Tamron 28 – 75mm F2.8 Di III VXD G2
* I was lucky enough to test a number of new Sony products (including the Sony A7SIII, A7RV, 400mm F2.8 and 135mm F1.8) on wildlife projects.