Meet Deus – Head Ranger at Serengeti Bushtops
In the first of our “Meet our Bushtops Family” series, we are delighted to introduce Deus, whose knowledge of the wild mirrors the vast expanse of the plains. With every step, he unravels the stories and secrets of the wilderness, providing not just a journey for our guests, but a gateway to truly understanding the heart of nature.
We thought some of our guests, past and new, might like to get to know him a bit better with a quick Q & A session…
Hi Deus. Let’s kick off our chat with a few fun facts about yourself?
I was born near Mt. Kilimanjaro and from my home I can see its famous mountain peak. I love photography, especially taking pictures of wildlife, which also helps me to know the best angles for our guests to get the best possible lighting and backdrop. I’m also obsessed with Astronomy – but I don’t believe in star signs.
What made you want to work as a Safari Guide?
Having been born in the slopes of Mt. Kilimanjaro and growing up seeing many tourists in my village, visiting waterfalls and Chagga caves, the industry fascinated me, and I developed the interest to guide guests when I grew up.
How long have you worked at Bushtops – and briefly describe your studies/career path?
I started my hotelier career with Serena Hotels as a receptionist for 9 years. I then left my reception work to pursue a guiding career, training at the Arusha Professional Tour Guide College for 18 months. I then joined Tusker Tour Company based in Moshi which deals with arranging Mountain climbing excursion on Mt. Kilimanjaro and I worked with them for 2 years. I loved this role and assisted many visitors to climb Kili’.
I then joined Bushtops Safari Camps in 2010, based at Serengeti Bushtops, where I have been working as a Field Guide/Ranger ever since– so 15 years so far! I was promoted to Head Guide/Ranger in 2015.
What are you most proud of?
I am proud of working for Bushtops Safari Camps, as we are renowned for being highly organized and with the highest standards of operation which has taught me so much and made me who I am today.
Is there any exciting news or developments in the area that you can share with us?
During last season our Bushtops pride of 15 lions killed a buffalo inside our camp firebreak and they fed on the carcass as our guests watched the exciting kill.
What is your favourite thing about your job?
Photography is my absolute passion, which has developed and grown steadily over the 29 years of my experience, honing my own skills whilst learning from and guiding our wonderful guests .
What is your favourite animal & why?
My favourite animal is an elephant because they live long, are extremely social and are very communicative/expressive.
What is your favourite bird & why?
My favourite birds are vultures. Every season they help return essential nutrients back to the soil. These fascinating birds clean our natural habitat.
What is the funniest question you have ever been asked on a drive?
Some Chinese guests once asked me if lions eat grass.
What is your favourite time of day to be out on safari?
Best time to head out on safari are the early morning hours and the evenings when the ecosystem is live and active.
When is your favourite time of the year in the Serengeti?
My favourite times in the Serengeti are the July/August period when the great migration is in the Northern Serengeti and crossing the Mara river into Kenya. This is a prime time for a Serengeti luxury safari. December to February are also wonderful, when the big herds head to the southern Serengeti for the calving season.
Please share an interesting fact about Tanzania that is not very well known?
Gombe National Park is little known but is instrumental in the conservation of Chimpanzees which are our closest relatives.
Is there any animal/bird you haven’t seen yet and is top of your checklist?
I don’t actually. During my career in guiding, I have been very lucky and privileged to have seen an incredible diversity of very unique and interesting animals.
Who has been the biggest inspiration/influence in your career?
My Manager Mr. Philip Mbeke who was a guide before too – as well as our ex Group Head Ranger Mr. Daniel Lomoe.
What is the best advice you recall?
Mr. Philip once told me that as a Leader/Head Guide, I must be strong and courageous and should always be fair when dealing with issues in my team.
What are your hobbies?
Reading wildlife books, bird watching, astronomy, photography and watching movies.
What’s your favourite movie of all time?
I loved the 6-part TV series called “Africa’s Hunters” about the incredible predators in Zambia’s Luangwa Valley.
What three words would your friends use to describe you?
Team leader, Reliable and Outgoing
Thanks for taking time out to chat with us Deus. We look forward to seeing you on your next African safari!
All images by Oliver Fly Photography
