Ian Batchelor
Ian Batchetor was born in Nakuru, Kenya in 1965 where his father was stationed during and after the turbulent Mau Mau uprising. After leaving Kenya, Ian lived in Malawi, Zimbabwe and finally settled in South Africa. Schooled at Prince Edward in Zimbabwe Ian completed his A levels and went on to University, initially in Cape Town and then at Wits. He finished up with two degrees and has never used them since! Ian has had a love of the world outside from a young age and many holidays spent around the wilderness of Lake Kariba.

After spending two years in the military where he was an Infantry Corporal he decided to opt for the outdoors rather that Business School ... a decision he has never looked back on! Initially working in Zimbabwe, Ian gained experience as a trainee guide on the Zambezi River, then as assistant manager at Pamuzinda Safari Lodge, finishing off by completing
his hunting / guides apprenticeship before working as a Game Ranger in the Sabi Sands. His thirst to travel and see more of Africa led him to Malawi where he worked for Central Africa Wilderness Safaris both as a mobile guide and a lodge manager. From here he was also able to access and lead trips into Zambia and the Luangwa Valley. In 1995 Ian joined Ker and Downey ( Tanzania ), initially as a Camp Manager and then as a Senior Guide. It is here that Ian really learnt the trade and spent many years with the company involved in all aspects from management and marketing, to leading his own safaris.

Every year Ian spends four months guiding in East Africa exclusively with Ker & Downey(Tan) often with his repeat clients, Married to Antonette ealier last yearr, they now have a baby bay, Lian. Antonette spent many years working in the USA in the fishing and hunting industry and booking safaris to Africa. In his free time hobbies and interests include sport, photography and visiting new places, especially in South Africa where there is a wealth of unspoiled and off the beaten track destinations. Ian speaks English, Afrikaans, German and Swahili.