A Day in the Life of Eric

Ever wondered what it’s like to be the person behind the scenes of those unforgettable African adventures? Meet Eric, one of our exceptional tour guides. Eric’s story as a guide begins in 2015 when an unexpected twist of fate opened the door to a world of possibilities. A friend’s persistent invitation to join the tourism industry finally resonated with him, and Eric’s latent passion for travel blossomed into a full-fledged career.
But it’s not all wildlife and wine tasting. Eric faces his fair share of challenges, like navigating tricky conversations with clients or dealing with unexpected requests (let’s just say some tourists have interesting ideas about “nightlife tours”). Yet, he handles each situation with grace, emphasizing the importance of respectful dialogue and maintaining professionalism.

Travel has always been a passion of mine. In 2015, when I found myself looking for a new opportunity after leaving the retail industry, a friend who’d been a tour guide for years reminded me of his past invitation to join him in the field. I had always enjoyed traveling locally and internationally, so I thought, why not? Combining my love for travel with the chance to share it with others felt like the perfect fit.

Definitely the interaction with clients! It’s incredibly rewarding to see their faces light up when they connect with a story I’m telling, and their questions show genuine interest. But the ultimate satisfaction comes from positive feedback at the end of the tour. Knowing that the client is satisfied is what truly makes it worthwhile.

As a tour guide, I often encounter clients with different perspectives on history. For example, one client questioned how Nelson Mandela obtained his home in Houghton after his imprisonment. I explained that it was a gift from supporters recognizing his significant contributions. Despite my explanation, the client remained skeptical. Later, during a discussion about South African history, the client took offence to my use of the term “Voortrekker”. After a back-and-forth, he eventually accused me of being racist.
In these situations, I remain professional and strive to maintain a respectful dialogue while providing accurate historical information. It’s essential to create a space where diverse viewpoints can be expressed.

(Laughs) A client once asked me to take him to a strip club. Of course, I didn’t do that – it’s not part of our tour offerings!

The most rewarding part of being a tour guide isn’t necessarily the money, but the connections you build with people. I once had a client, an older woman, who I really connected with during a tour. We stayed in touch afterwards, checking in on each other. When the pandemic hit, and tourism came to a standstill, she reached out to see how I was doing. Her kindness went above and beyond – she offered me financial support during that difficult time. Experiences like this solidify my belief that the positive energy you put out into the world comes back to you in unexpected ways. It motivates me to always strive to be a good person and provide excellent service to every client, regardless of their background.

I enjoy listening to music and gardening.

It was a lighthearted disagreement between a group of friends. They were having fun taking pictures together, but then a debate broke out over who would get the coveted spot next to the tour guide. It was very playful, but it did get a little loud for a moment!

Yes, I actually faced a tricky situation earlier this year. I was guiding a group of around 13 people, and one guest simply wouldn’t leave the dining table without dessert. The twist? We were at a remote spot with a very limited dessert selection, and her specific craving wasn’t on the menu. I managed to get the staff to bring her some fine chocolates, which was the perfect sweet fix. She was delighted, and we were able to carry on with the tour without any more delays.

I’ve had many touching experiences, but one from this year really stands out. I was guiding a group of five, including a little girl around eight or nine years old. At the end of our tour when I was dropping them off at the hotel, she was in tears, and I found myself choked up as well. We had grown close during the tour, with her frequently perched on my shoulders as we explored together. It was especially emotional for me, as my life on the road often makes me miss my own family and kids. Connecting with their family felt incredibly meaningful.

My favourite dish is braai meat and creamy spinach. The best places to get great local food are Sakumzi in Soweto and Patapata in Maboneng.

I always recommend visiting the Lesedi Cultural Village. It showcases nine different villages, from Xhosa to Swati, with traditional dances, crafts, and demonstrations. It’s a great introduction to South African cultures, especially for those clients who don’t have enough time to explore the country fully.

Tourists often have misconceptions about big cities like Johannesburg and Soweto, particularly when it comes to safety. Some believe they should never leave their hotels. As a tour guide, I address these concerns directly, explaining that, like any major city, Johannesburg has areas to be cautious in, but also many safe neighbourhoods. By following the recommended itineraries and staying with the group, tourists can enjoy their experience and feel secure. My goal is to showcase the rich culture and history of South Africa. This not only helps dispel misconceptions but also ensures tourists have positive memories of their visit.

Mpumalanga is truly breathtaking. Whenever I have some free time, I always jump at the chance to explore it. The scenery is simply stunning. Eswatini is another favorite of mine with its unique charm.

I lead by example! When we arrive at a new location, I make it a point to calm any anxieties the clients may have and assure them of their safety. Since I have been in the industry for a while, I have built relationships with many locals over the years, so they often recognize me and greet me warmly. This also helps tourists relax and interact with the community.

Avoid displaying your valuables. Keep your license and money in separate places. While on the road, avoid picking up hitchhikers. If traveling from Johannesburg to Kruger National Park, I recommend two stops along the way: Dullstroom and Alzu.

Eric’s journey as a guide highlights the unique blend of passion, professionalism, and personal connection that makes each tour unforgettable. From navigating the challenges of diverse client perspectives to sharing heartfelt moments with travellers, Eric’s dedication to providing an authentic South African experience shines through. His expertise and love for the road transform every tour into an adventure, leaving clients with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for the beauty and stories of Africa. Whether you’re discovering the streets of Johannesburg or the serene landscapes of Mpumalanga, Eric ensures every journey is more than just a tour—it’s an experience to cherish.

Looking to hire a knowledgable private drive guide for your stay in South Africa? Book Eric for an amazing experience.