Africa Trip Leader
Guide Since: 2009
Usko grew up in Namibia's northern region of Ovamboland and developed a love for nature and wildlife at an early age. After completing his education in Windhoek and working as a graphic designer, he decided to pursue his passion for guiding and has been leading trips in Namibia since 2009. His training led him from the NamibRand Nature Reserve to Damaraland, where he mastered skills in geology, plants, birds, and other wildlife, including the behaviors of desert-adapted elephants. He also spent time in the Himba villages, learning about their unique culture firsthand. Usko loves sharing his country with safari guests, and says it bring us “closer to nature and unites people from around the world.”
Our TeamUsko was one of the best guides we have ever had, with a comprehensive knowledge of flora, fauna (especially birds), geology, geography, culture, history, with an answer for almost every question we asked him. We couldn't ask for more.
Dan F.
Beverly Hills, CA
Namibia Expedition
Usko was just wonderful. He is such a pleasant and thoughtful human being. He couldn't do enough for us. If there was anything we needed or wanted, he immediately jumped to get it done. His fund of knowledge was astonishing. He never got tired of answering questions; and we asked a lot! He was working from sunup to went we retired for the night. One of the best guides we've ever had. Superlative!
Don B.
Anna Maria, FL
Usko could not have been better; he made this trip. Outstanding!
Ed T.
Laredo, TX
Namibia Expedition
Usko was one of the best leaders we have ever had. He was amazing in every respect! His knowledge, tracking skills, communication skills, humor, organization, etc. could not have been better!
Harvey and Ellen F.
Los Angeles, CA
Namibia Expedition
Usko is an outstanding leader. He was informative, clear, kind, and always considerate. He respects his clients, and in turn, they respect him. His extensive knowledge of all things natural led us all to have a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of living things. He also helped us understand the topography of Namibia with his knowledge of geology. I think we all gained an appreciation for birds because of his passion for them. WT leaders are always very professional but Usko was flawless!
Joni H.
Evergreen, CO
Namibia Expedition
Usko can be described with two words: Perfect Guide. I think I can safely speak for much of our group when I say we all deeply appreciated him. He has a depth of knowledge that is beyond belief, and I was not expecting to learn so much about everything in addition to the animals. He knows about insects, flora, geology, geography, culture, history, and the list goes on. Usko is kind, patient, competent, and conscientious. In addition, he has a fantastic sense of humor and we did so much belly laughing that it enhanced the trip even more. I felt very safe and cared for in his capable hands.
Kelly U.
Balston Spa, NY
Usko is extremely knowledgable and experienced, and was always attentive to our comfort and safety, while offering outstanding commentary during the trip. He was attuned to the interests and needs of all the participants—a great guide!
Lorna C.
Berkeley, CA
Namibia Expedition
Usko is extremely professional and knowledgable and when combined with his winning personality, it adds up to an excellent, resourceful trip leader. He was able to capably, efficiently handle all situations with a good sense of humor and perspective.
Lynne N.
San Francisco, CA
Namibia Expedition
Very much appreciated our guides getting us up early to experience Sossosvlei before tourists descended on the place. Both guides were truly outstanding—not only were they knowledgeable, but they were true gentlemen who made sure that everything went smoothly. I can't say enough good things about them!
Marcia T.
Santa Fe, NM
Namibia Expedition
Usko is an excellent guide with a great deal of knowledge about animals, geology, insects, birds—just everything. Loved him. Kind, courteous, respectful. And a great driver!
Marty T.
Castle Rock, CO
Namibia Expedition
Usko's sense of humor and his familiarity with the people of Namibia—particularly the Himba—really added a lot to the trip.
Nancy B.
Oakland, CA
Namibia Expedition
Usko was just wonderful, with a great wealth of knowledge generously shared. He made an excellent trip even better.
Pat O.
Buford, GA
Namibia Expedition
Usko was the most fabulous tour leader we have ever had in our many years of travel and tours. He is unbelievably knowledgeable. Beyond that, his interpersonal skills are totally amazing. We started with a group of 5 women who knew each other, and two couples who did not. He was able to communicate effectively with all of us, and helped us become a group of friends before the end of our two weeks. We would jump at the opportunity to take another trip with him.
Sandi C.
Anna Maria, FL
Usko is a tribute to Wilderness Travel and the profession of guiding in the bush! He's personable, flexible, smart, funny, inviting, and competent. He always extends a sense of confidence about what we're doing, where we're going, and what we should expect. Simply the best!
Steve A.
La Jolla, CA
Namibia Expedition
Esko is WONDERFUL! We were so lucky to have him as our guide. He knew his stuff...was always professional but also friendly/sociable and supportive...with a great sense of humor.
Sue S.
Melbourne, Australia
A Vision for Wildlife: Namibia Expedition
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