Some people guide safari drives. Others create experiences that stay with guests for a lifetime.
For Sarah Barratt of Thornybush Game Lodge, every game drive, bush walk and wildlife encounter is an opportunity to help people see Africa’s wilderness through fresh eyes. Now, that passion has earned her one of the highest honours in the safari industry after being crowned Safari Guide of the Year 2026.
The prestigious title recognises the finest field guides in southern Africa, celebrating individuals who combine exceptional bush knowledge, technical expertise, leadership and professionalism with an extraordinary ability to connect people with nature.
For Thornybush, Sarah’s victory is more than a personal achievement. It is a celebration of the guiding profession and the remarkable role safari guides play in conservation, education and unforgettable guest experiences.
A journey built on passion and purpose
With 15 years of guiding experience and an academic background in anthropology, Sarah has developed a guiding style that extends far beyond identifying wildlife.
Her safaris are rooted in storytelling, curiosity and meaningful human connection. Every encounter becomes an opportunity to explore the intricate relationships between animals, landscapes and people, allowing guests to leave with a deeper appreciation of the natural world.
That unique approach stood out during this year’s Safari Guide of the Year competition, held annually in the Greater Kruger region.
Widely regarded as one of the industry’s toughest competitions, it challenges finalists across five demanding days designed to mirror the realities of professional guiding.
The ultimate test of a safari guide
Success requires far more than spotting wildlife.
Finalists are evaluated across multiple disciplines that reflect the diverse responsibilities of a professional field guide, including:
- Guided game drives
- Bush walks
- Bird identification
- Wildlife tracking
- Storytelling and guest hosting
- Advanced rifle handling
- Professional leadership
Competing against some of southern Africa’s most respected guides, Sarah consistently impressed judges with both her technical excellence and her ability to inspire those around her.
She claimed top honours in the Guided Game Drive category as well as Industry Ambassador & Professionalism, before ultimately being announced as the overall Safari Guide of the Year 2026.
Her victory also marks an important milestone for the profession, as she becomes only the second woman in the history of the award to receive the coveted title.
A dream realised
For Sarah, hearing her name announced as the winner was a moment she had imagined for years.
“I genuinely couldn’t believe it when they called my name. It felt incredibly surreal. But now that it’s starting to sink in, I just feel unbelievably grateful and humbled to have received this award,” she said.
Sarah explained that she has followed the competition since the beginning of her career, always hoping that one day she would have the opportunity to compete herself.
Simply reaching the finals had already fulfilled a long-held dream.
Winning the competition made the journey feel complete.
Representing the very best of Thornybush
According to Melanie Parker, Head of Operations at Thornybush, Sarah perfectly represents the values that define both the organisation and the safari guiding profession.
“At Thornybush, we believe great guides do far more than interpret the bush; they create meaningful connections between people and nature,” Parker said.
She praised Sarah’s exceptional knowledge while highlighting the qualities that truly distinguish her.
“Her warmth, passion, professionalism and ability to inspire others are what set her apart. We could not be prouder to have her representing Thornybush and the guiding industry as a whole.”
More than a guide
The Safari Guide of the Year competition shines a spotlight on the dedication required to become an exceptional field guide.
Beyond delivering memorable wildlife sightings, guides act as ambassadors for conservation, helping visitors understand why Africa’s landscapes and wildlife deserve protection.
Their work encourages appreciation, respect and a lasting commitment to preserving the natural environment for future generations.
Sarah believes that responsibility now extends even further.
Receiving the title has inspired her to help others grow within the profession, particularly women who dream of becoming field guides.
“It is such a huge honour to receive this title,” she said.
“I now have a wonderful responsibility, not just as an ambassador for the industry, but also to help others succeed, and that’s something I’m really excited about. I want to help other guides, especially women, set themselves on a path to achieve their dreams, just like I did.”
Inspiring the next generation
Sarah Barratt’s success reflects more than individual excellence.
It highlights the passion, commitment and expertise that define professional safari guiding while demonstrating the growing opportunities for women within the industry.
Her achievement reinforces the importance of skilled guides in creating authentic safari experiences that educate, inspire and foster meaningful connections with nature.
As guests continue to seek experiences that go beyond wildlife sightings, guides like Sarah remind us that the greatest safaris are often measured not only by the animals seen, but by the stories shared, the lessons learned and the lasting memories created along the way.
For Thornybush, Sarah’s remarkable achievement is a proud moment that celebrates both one exceptional guide and an industry dedicated to protecting Africa’s extraordinary natural heritage for generations to come.
