Hunting Guides

Large areas of Zimbabwe are devoted to conservation of habitat and rich natural biodiversity through sustainable hunting practices.  Working hand in hand the Zimbabwe Department of National Parks and Wildlife Management and the Zimbabwe Professional Guides Association ensure the highest standards, ethics and morals of their members, through strict apprenticeships, examining and qualification systems, ongoing monitoring and codes of conduct and a constitution that our members have pledged to uphold and enforce.

The Z.P.G.A. is proud that Zimbabwe’s Hunting Guides are recognized as the highest qualified in Africa and amongst the highest qualified worldwide.

Z.P.G.A. members practice “fair chase” and all members undergo rigorous training on animal behavior and life cycles ensuring that they understand which animals to select in a sustainable and ethical manner that ensures correct off take and alignment to research-based management policies. 

The Z.P.G.A. and our members do everything possible to ensure that hunters visiting Zimbabwe are ensured of the best possible safari experience.  Vast areas of well managed African bushveld and the natural friendly disposition of Zimbabweans from the camp staff, trackers and hunters themselves goes a long way to ensuring this.  Behind the scenes the uncompromisingly high standards and knowledge needed to qualify as a Zimbabwean Professional Hunting Guide and the built-in knowledge of ecosystems ensure you are being led by professionals who are invested in long term conservation, species health and each area’s natural biodiversity.

All Zimbabwe’s Professional Hunting Guides are required to adhere to the National Wildlife Laws including the Tourist Hunting Regulations. Clients are urged to assist and respect their Professional Hunting Guides in this responsibility.

The Z.P.G.A. urges all clients seeking to hunt in Zimbabwe to only book and use paid up members of the Zimbabwe Professional Guides Association.  The Z.P.G.A. and our members are professionally and ethically motivated to ensure that all hunts are conducted within the legal framework of Zimbabwe and we therefore advise all potential hunting clients planning a trip to Zimbabwe to do your research and ensure that your Safari Operators and Guides belong to reputable organizations*.

Please note: 

  • IT IS ILLEGAL for a non-resident foreigner to obtain a Zimbabwean Professional Hunter’s license – and as such it is illegal for them to conduct a safari in Zimbabwe.
  • Conducting a hunt that is not fully within the legal framework of the laws of Zimbabwe can have serious repercussions on both the outfitter and the hunting client.

Featured Members

Tanya Blake

Born and raised Zimbabwean, completely driven and inspired by our wildlife and the habitat they live in. Passionate about conservation and all aspects of the safari industry – greatest joy is sharing it with clients!

ZPGA ROB LURIE

Rob Lurie

Rob has been in the Safari industry for 26 years guiding hundreds of clients on successful memorable safaris, and has extensive experience of hunting and guiding in Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Zambia, Namibia and South Africa.

Petrus kok

Petrus, fourth generation Zimbabwean, grew up between the Zambezi valley & the Midlands where he learnt to hunt, fish, trap & enjoy wildlife. He first guided in Hwange NP in 2010 & obtained his full License in 2015 & has since hunted & guided in, Mozambique & South Africa.

Thierry Labat

Thierry is an 18 year old Professional hunters license holder, fluent in French and Shona. Awarded the Zimbabwe Professional Hunter of the year award by the Association in 2011 and 2016 and the Outstanding Professional Hunter of the Year in 2020. 

JIM MACKIE

I have over 40 years of working with Wildlife and Birding, both as a past Warden of the Department of National Parks and Wildlife here in Zimbabwe and as a professional Safari Guide since 1989.

I have a deep understanding and love for the African bush and all it’s inhabitants and I have worked and Guided in all areas of Zimbabwe, both as a big game specialist and as a Bird Guide.

I enjoy sharing this experience and appreciation for the bush with all whom I meet and Guide on Safari.

THOMAS HOLLOWAY

Thomas started his career in 2015 where after writing his learner professional hunters licence he went to work in Coutada 11 in Mozambique for 2 years. After that he came back to Zimbabwe and obtained his full license in 2021 earning the “best hunter out of practical” award.

Lance Nesbitt

To serve all client’s to the best of my ability, ensuring a safe and successful safari where trophies and memories combine to achieve an unforgettable experience. To interpret and identify the client’s needs and guide the safari in the manner best suited so client leaves satisfied with his experience.

Want to be a featured member? Complete the application form here