Celebrating Excellence: Jason Gipson Awarded Safari Guide of the Year 2025

We are proud to share that Jason Gipson, a field guide at Lion Sands Sabi Sand, has been named Safari Guide of the Year 2025. This title recognises Jason’s exceptional ability to lead immersive, ethical and inspiring safaris.

Hosted annually by the Field Guides Association of Southern Africa (FGASA), Safari Guide of the Year honours the commitment, skill, knowledge and leadership it takes to be a professional field guide. Only five finalists are selected each year, and they are tested across eight demanding categories. Jason took top honours in two categories: Guided Photographic Experience and Hospitality & Professionalism, whilst also placing as runner-up in the Game Drive, Guided Bushwalk and Track & Sign challenges. This outstanding achievement reflects both his technical expertise and his deep connection to the wilderness.

This connection began forming long before Jason started his field guiding journey. Growing up, his family holidays in the bush became experiences that left a lasting impression. “Just being out there, surrounded by nature, with the thrill of wildlife all around, it sparked something in me,” he says. “The idea of spending my life outdoors, exploring and connecting with animals, was incredibly exciting.”

That passion led him to train at Bhejane Nature Training and later work alongside a number of respected mentors. When he joined Lion Sands Game Reserve, Head Field Guide Werner Immelman and Safari Manager Riaan Fourie also helped to shape the field guide he is today.

One of his most memorable moments came early in his career, when he and his best friend, both newly qualified, tracked a black rhino on foot with guests. “Sharing that experience, in the open with your best mate, guests by your side and those incredible animals in front of you, it was just unreal. It was the moment we both felt truly at home out there.”

Over time, Jason’s guiding style has become more intuitive and guest-focused. “In the beginning, I was all about facts, trying to share as much information as possible. But over time, I’ve learned it’s not about how much you know, it’s about how you share it,” he explains. His approach today is shaped by being fully present, reading animal behaviour, tuning into the moment and creating meaningful connections between guests and nature.

When asked what he hopes guests take away from their time with him, he responded, “I hope guests walk away feeling that being in the African wilderness is something truly special, a privilege. It’s not just about ticking off the Big Five. There’s so much beauty and learning to be found in the details, in the unexpected.”

Looking ahead, Jason is passionate about supporting others on their journey. “I’d love to help mentor up-and-coming guides, to support those starting out and help them find their voice. I also want to continue growing myself, possibly specialising in a particular field.”

His advice for those just beginning is simple, but hard-earned: “Take the leap. Step out of your comfort zone and go for it. One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that feedback is gold, as it helps you grow. Sometimes we think everything’s going fine, but that outside perspective can highlight things we’ve missed. So, ask questions, seek advice, and never stop learning. And most importantly, take every opportunity that comes your way- you never know where it might lead.”

Jason’s achievement reflects the values we hold across MORE Family Collection: a deep respect for nature, a commitment to meaningful guest experiences and a belief in the power of people to make incredible moments possible. We are proud to have him as one of our field guides and to celebrate this recognition of excellence.

If you feel inspired by Jason's story, please take a look at the comprehensive training programmes offered at MORE Field Guide College. Perhaps you too will transform your passion for wildlife into a professional field guiding career.