About

Welcome to Kenya

Safari Sense is a blog curated by Ernest Mwongela, a seasoned communications consultant (MPRSK) and freelance wildlife safari guide, as he delves into his passion for wildlife safari and conservation, the history of Kenya and East Africa, and the sustainability of the tourism industry.

Ernest is a licensed Tour Leader (Tourism Regulatory Authority) and holds a bronze wildlife safari tour guiding certification (Kenya Professional Safari Guides Association), complemented by a journalism degree from the People’s Friendship University of Russia, along with an honorary diploma in the Russian language. 

His repertoire includes certifications as a drone pilot, expertise in GRI sustainability reporting, training on Tour Management and Wildlife Conservation from the Kenya Wildlife Service and National Geographic respectively. He also brings a wealth of experience in CSR and corporate communications to the table.

Proficient in English, Swahili, and Russian, Ernest is also conversational in Spanish. With over 15 years field experience, he has been at the forefront of communicating sustainable environmental conservation initiatives that prioritize community welfare and the attainment of the SDGs. His professional safari guiding expertise spans Kenya and Tanzania.

As a passionate conservationist and devoted birder, Ernest is adept at leading wildlife safaris, narrating Kenya’s natural history, and advocating for inclusive community-based climate mitigation projects through sustainable tourism practices.

Beyond his conservation efforts, Ernest’s artistic flair shines through as a professional photographer, digital designer, and creative artist, keeping abreast of cutting-edge technologies.

Through Safari Sense, Ernest not only recommends and markets prime wildlife viewing destinations but also provides invaluable insights for planning holidays in Kenya, catering to different preferences and budgets.

Additionally, he designs personalized guided excursions, ensuring unforgettable experiences for adventurers seeking both thrills and enlightenment.

The Team

Ernest 'Rei'

Travel Consultant & Tour Leader

Our volunteer Editor-in-Chief is a certified Russian language Safari Guide (Kenya Professional Safari Guides Association) and a professional photographer who is passionate about wildlife conservation, sustainable tourism and community development.
The travel bug bit him early in life and he has lived in, and traveled extensively to all corners of Kenya.
Well known and respected for his vast knowledge of the African bush, Ernest has been leading safaris for over 12 years and is a committed conservationist with a passion for birds and emerging technologies.
A digital communication expert, he speaks English, Swahili and Russian, and is conversant in Spanish.

Lizz

Client Relations & Administration

Lizz is a professional with a demonstrated history of working in Client Relations and Administration with years combined of local and international experience in customer service. She ensures the smooth alignment between the business processes and provides expert advice for holiday options while overseeing incoming prospective enquires.
Lizz manages our clients’ experiences and maintains the day-to-day operations of Safari Sense.

Tamara

Corporate Branding & Business Performance

Tamara thrives in her passion for delivering customer-focused services and unique holiday packages. She manages and implements our brand communications and end-to-end campaigns, gathering insights and articulating and implementing recommendations to drive brand performance.
Tamara develops, manages, and implements sales and marketing strategies for Safari Sense’s key target markets.

Safari Sense also recommends qualified driver guides with years of experience to travel with you as you enjoy your holiday. We take special care in selecting the most responsible people, capable of providing a cheerful, caring and attentive service while on safari. All are true certified professionals with in-depth knowledge of routes, conditions, local attractions and practical mechanics. Our abilities as game spotters is phenomenal, and apart from being knowledgeable in Kenya’s flora and fauna, we’re also conversant with local culture, current affairs, and are passionate about environmental conservation.

What we've been up to...