Expedition leadership is far more than guiding a journey from one destination to the next. It is about reading people as carefully as landscapes, adapting to the unexpected, making calm decisions under pressure, and creating experiences that remain with travellers long after they return home.
From the waterways of the Okavango Delta to the mountain gorillas of Uganda, from the deserts of Namibia to the great wilderness areas of East Africa, my career has been built on helping travellers experience Africa with confidence, curiosity and respect.
Throughout my career I have led more than
100 multi-day expeditions, including over
50 departures for National Geographic Expeditions across Southern Africa. I have worked in
34 African countries with travellers from around the world, each journey presenting its own challenges, cultures and unforgettable moments.
My professional background extends beyond expedition leadership. It includes aviation, hospitality, lodge management and emergency response, giving me a broad operational understanding of travel in remote environments. These experiences have shaped my leadership style: calm, prepared, adaptable and always focused on the wellbeing of my guests.
Today I continue to work with tour operators, private travellers and organisations seeking an experienced expedition leader who combines logistical expertise with genuine storytelling, cultural understanding and a deep love for Africa.
Where I Can Add Value ● Expedition Leadership throughout Africa
● National Geographic-style journeys
● Wildlife and photographic expeditions
● Small group and private departures
● Accessible and assisted travel companioning
● Remote logistics and expedition planning
● Hospitality and guest experience
● Cross-cultural interpretation
● Storytelling
● Crisis management and operational support
My PhilosophyThe finest expeditions are not measured by the number of animals seen or kilometres travelled. They are measured by the moments that cannot be planned: a quiet sunrise in the Delta, conversations around a campfire, the laughter of local children, or the silence shared while watching elephants disappear into the evening light.
Those are the experiences I strive to create—journeys that are authentic, enriching and remembered for a lifetime.
Looking for an experienced expedition leader, private guide or expedition consultant?
I’d love to hear from you.
Follow my current work:
Instagram: @viviegunning: https://www.instagram.com/viviegunning/
Facebook: Vivienne Gunning: https://www.facebook.com/vivienne.gunning.96/
