Phinias Kuchicha
Head Chef
Phinias, originally from Zimbabwe, began his career in 1994 as an apprentice chef in Victoria Falls. In October 2008 he joined Sanctuary Chief's Camp as Executive Chef and from there moved to Sanctuary Chobe Chilwero. His signature dish, Grilled Impala with Port wine and Chocolate sauce on Roast Sweet potato has proved to be a favourite amongst guests.
Beatrice Duduzile Ndlovu
Spa Therapist
Beatrice was born and raised in Zimbabwe. In 1998 she obtained some qualifications including, a Aesthesticiene and Physiatrics Diploma, a national Diploma in Beauty Therapy and various product knowledge Diplomas such as Matis, Babor, Gatineau, Justine, Thalgo, Christian Dior and Givenchy to name a few. At the end of 2000, she moved to the UK and worked at Angela Health and Skin Care Clinic for three years before returning to Africa. In 2006 she joined the team at Chobe Chilwero.
Kebbe (Keabetswa) Arabang
Head Guide
Before he joined Sanctuary, Kebbe taught design technology and woodwork. He then travelled around the USA while working for Disney and loved Florida the most as the climate reminded him of Botswana. When he joined Sanctuary, just over five years ago, he worked his way through the different guiding levels until he reached his Level 4 guiding license. His favourite part of his job is “talking to people”. Kebbe believes that a quality guide should have knowledge and be an entertainer as well as a leader.
Onalenna "Ali" Tiego
Head Guide
Ali, born and raised in Maun, has been with Sanctuary for almost ten years now, He started his career at Sanctuary Chief's Camp and recently moved to Sanctuary Chobe Chilwero. He is one of Sanctuary’s highest qualified guides. His depth and detail of knowledge, scientific and behavioural, about the delta and its fauna and flora, is second to none and he has a marvellous ability to bring this across to his guests. Ali is a true professional in every sense of the word when it comes to guiding and you would be hard pressed to find a better guide.
Ishmael Simon
Guide
Ishmael was introduced to Sanctuary Retreats in 2005 where his ability to interact with people and passion for the bush was evident. He enjoys socialising and has a wonderful sense of humour that keeps his guests entertained. Ishmael's knack of finding animals under difficult circumstances is uncanny. Though shorter in stature, he is a giant behind the wheel of a landcruiser and his skills and tracking ability are second to none!
Poniso Shamakuni
Guide
Poniso who was born and raised in Kasane is a true teacher and gentleman of the bush, and has a wonderful calming manner about him that puts his guests at ease, as well as a keen sense of humour that warms people to him, and instils great confidence in his guests through his calm, gentle manner. Poniso also has a special love for birds and birding and enjoys reading, listening to music, writing or kicking a soccer ball around. He has an incredible and intimate knowledge of the animals and birds of the bush.
Chika Kachana
Guide
Chika joined the Sanctuary team in 2001. With twelve solid years of experience behind him, Chika stands out to be an invaluable asset for the lodge. In 2009 he was confirmed as an Honorary Wildlife Warden by the Botswana Government in recognition for his maturity and exemplary behaviour in issues concerning wildlife conservancy in the Chobe National Park. His loves taking guests out on river cruises during the peak elephant viewing period (July to October) and enjoys sharing his knowledge and passion about these gentle giants of the African bush.
Mushe Loveridge
Guide
Mushe was born in Hwange, a coal mining town in the northern part of Zimbabwe. After working at a few Delta camps he joined the Sanctuary team and discovered that there was a lot more to learn as he embarked on the extensive guide training program. Mushe finds joy in being part of a team of guides regarded as the best in their field in the country. His free time is spent in the bush watching the wonderful intricacies of nature. Otherwise he is also quite content in front of the television watching cricket or soccer.