Meet Guide Brett Marneweck
Nicknamed ‘xinkwa’ which means ‘bread’, Brett takes us through his guiding journey.
A bit of background… I grew up in the Hoedspruit area, so I spent most of my weekends and school holidays in the Greater Kruger area, and Kruger National Park itself, with my family. This is where my passion for conservation and wildlife was sparked – driving me to my career (I prefer the word vocation😊).
I pretty much spent all of my spare time in my formative years studying animals and playing sports… I used to work over weekends while I was in boarding school – my desire to get out of the boarding house propelled me – either at one of the lodges helping out and learning, or at the reptile park.
Once I had finished school, I went on to study to obtain my diploma in Nature Conservation through FGASA (Field Guide Association of South Africa). I immediately pursued my career in guiding, and here I am 12 years later – still in the Greater Kruger and Kruger National Park region.
My favourite sighting? That’s hard to put down to just one. I enjoy every moment out in the bush. But if I had to choose, I’d have to say my most enjoyable moments on safari are spent with my favourite animal – the wild dog. I love how the unit works together, and their interactions with hyenas are always riveting.
What I will always cherish about being a safari guide are the guests. Nothing is more rewarding than igniting a life-long love for the wilderness – once that safari bug bites, it draws them back time and time again.
It’s such a special feeling having a guest return, and having the opportunity to host them again. I get to know these people, and create real connections with them over the years of guiding them. It’s even more rewarding when they follow me to new lodges and destinations that I may move to. We get to create new memories together as the journey goes on.
I am so grateful to get to do what I love, day after day. This is not what I would consider to be ‘work’. It’s a privilege that I hold very dear.
2 Replies to “Meet Guide Brett Marneweck”
I had the privilege of meeting Brett on my trip to the Timbavati. He made us feel like family & taught us so many amazing things about the bush. He truly cares about the wildlife.
Had time with Brett in August and absolutely loved him! Never ending knowledge and laughter. Plan on being with him again in 2024! See you then Brett!
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