Sarah Barratt of Thornybush Game Lodge has been honoured as the 2026 Safari Guide of the Year, making her the second woman to receive this esteemed southern African accolade.

In the safari industry, a field guide can make or break the bucket list experience of a lifetime.

The difference between a good safari and an unforgettable one comes down to the person in the driver’s seat.

This week, the industry officially crowned its finest: Sarah Barratt of Thornybush Game Reserve has been named the Safari Guide of the Year 2026.

The prestigious accolade follows a gruelling, five-day gauntlet hosted at Amani Safari Camp within the scenic Klaserie Private Nature Reserve.