As we reach the end of another year, and the close of Nightjar’s tenth year in operation, we find ourselves reflecting on what has shaped us, challenged us, and grown us. Ten years is a milestone that feels both surreal and deeply grounding. Anyone who has walked alongside us for part of this journey knows that it has not always been easy. From the early years of building trust in the industry with a pioneer idea, to weathering the uncertainty of the COVID period, there were moments that tested the courage of every small tourism business. Yet here we stand, stronger, more focused, and more grateful than ever.
Nightjar exists because of the people who believe in what we do. The guides who return to us for assessments, mentoring and upskilling. The guests who entrust us with their safari experiences and private guiding journeys. The lodges that open their doors to our team. And the colleagues and friends who cheer us on quietly behind the scenes. Your loyalty and partnership mean everything to us, and we are deeply thankful for each one of you.
A Year of Work That Matters
Looking back at 2025, the sheer volume of work completed reminds us why this calling is so meaningful. This year included:
- Hundreds of hours of mentored trails walks across some of the Lowveld’s most spectacular wilderness areas.
- Hundreds of hours of guiding and private safaris, often tailored to guests seeking more than just a wildlife experience, but a deeper understanding of the natural world.
- Over 155 FGASA assessments & exams, contributing to the industry’s qualified, confident field guides.
- Extensive on-site training and upskilling across the Lowveld, helping lodges strengthen their guiding teams, refine safety protocols, and elevate guest experiences.
These hours represent far more than work completed. They reflect growth, mentorship, and a commitment to building skilled, ethical and knowledgeable guides who carry the responsibility of sharing Africa’s wilderness with integrity.
Doing Things the Right Way
One of the values we are most proud of at Nightjar is consistency. Not flashy, not rushed, not cutting corners. Simply doing things the right way, every single time.
Whether it is confirming a booking, preparing for an assessment, planning a trails walk or delivering a private safari, we pride ourselves on reliability and follow-through. If a booking is in our calendar, it stays there. If we commit to an assessment, we honour it. If we take responsibility for a guest or a guide, we give them our best.
In an industry that can sometimes become reactive or chaotic, we believe that professionalism and consistency are what set you apart in the long run.
Gratitude for Everyone Who Walks This Path With Us
This tenth year has reminded us of something simple but powerful: Nightjar would not exist without the community around it.
- To the guides who return year after year, trusting us with their development.
- To the lodges who welcome us on-site for training, assessments and upskilling.
- To the guests who choose intimate, meaningful safari experiences over generic travel.
- To our friends and partners in the industry who continue to support, refer and uplift us.
Thank you for believing in us. Thank you for choosing us. Thank you for being part of Nightjar’s story.
