Nic Polenakis

Nic was born in Zimbabwe and lived in Bulawayo where his junior education was obtained. From 1990-1995 he worked on a rhino conservancy. Here he did an extensive study of black rhino and was also involved in the anti-poaching, tracking, darting and translocation of the rhino. He was appointed coordinator for the "San Diego Zoo" study of black rhino. At the end of these five years he passed his full Professional Guide License.

In 1996 he joined a mobile safari operation as Head Guide and these trips took him through Zimbabwe. He also introduced wilderness trails, backpacking with groups of up to 6, walking through National Parks and sleeping under the stars in big game areas. During the off-season he assisted with camp management and guiding at Camp Amalinda.

In 1999, he became Head Guide of a Botswana mobile safari operation. More recently he spends his time between, Zimbabwe, Botswana and Zambia. He and his wife, Tracey are based in Bulawayo.

Guided Safaris with Nic Polenakis

1. 12 Day Legends of Zimbabwe Safari - From $3,595.00
Exceptional value pricing for 2010 travel. This flying safari is an introduction to the game parks of Zimbabwe that offer game drives in open 4-wheel drive vehicles, game viewing by canoe, morning walks, and magnificent Victoria Falls. You may have the chance to see the Big 5. Accommodations are in a combination of two luxury permanent tented camps and for the more adventurous you can stay in mobile tented camps in Mana Pools....view safari

2. 12 Day Best of Wilderness Botswana Flying Safari - From $7,295.00
This flying safari offers three days of superb game viewing at Mombo Camp in Moremi - considered one of the best camps in Botswana and why we have it featured as a Signature Safari. It also takes you 2 other parks that offer an insight to the fantastic wildlife in the Botswana parks utilizing charter flights transfers between the camps. Begin with a night in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe or Livingstone, Zambia. For travel Jan-July 15/Nov 2010-March 31, 2011, stay 7 nights and pay for 6. Must book by August 31st! This program also includes a 7 night discounted stay at the Wilderness Safaris portfolio of camps (except Mombo)!...view safari

3. 15 Day Call of the Wild Group Safari to Botswana and Zimbabwe - $7,995.00
This is our Africa Adventure Company Signature Group safari to Botswana and Zimbabwe! The parks you visit and accommodations selected are a careful balance for supporting low impact eco-tourism, and ensuring the amazing wildlife viewing of Moremi Reserve and the Okavango Delta combined with the active game viewing ventures of walking and canoeing in Mana Pools. The reason for this being one of a "BEST of Southern Africa trip" are your two guides leading the small group departures....view safari

4. 12 Day Classic Northern Group Safari to Tanzania - $4,150.00
This is a perfect introductory wildlife safari at value price for the first time traveler to Africa. Enjoy visiting the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater along with Lake Manyara and Tarangire. You stay mostly in lodges and one permanent tented camp. One flight is included to enjoy the African scenery including the Great Rift Valley and exclude the long drive from the Serengeti....view safari

5. 14 Day Running Wild Exclusive Safari to Botswana- From $9,850.00
This has to be the best way to go in Botswana. Running Wild around Botswana lead by an expert Private naturalist guide and your private vehicle! The guide has so much to offer, both on a personal basis and in wildlife knowledge. This is an opportunity to cherish for life traveling as a couple, a family or small group of friends. The program includes three days of superb game viewing at Mombo Camp in Moremi - many believe the best game viewing of wildlife in Southern Africa....view safari

6. 14 Day Classic Safari to Zimbabwe and Botswana - From $5,595.00
The combination of Hwange along with the traditional safari game-viewing in Botswana makes this program a true wildlife experience! Hwange offers great walking, and day and night game drives and the opportunity to see the Big 5! Visit to Victoria Falls with a full day to allow more than just viewing the Falls. Finish with the amazing game viewing opportunities that Botswana offers in the Linyanti and the Okavango Delta....view safari

7. 16 Day Best of Southern Africa Value Safari to Botswana and South Africa - From $6,175.00
This safari highlights the best game viewing opportunities in Botswana combined with some sightseeing in Victoria Falls and Cape Town. For travel January-July 15/Nov 2010-March 31, 2011 and booked before August 31st, this program includes a free night on safari in Botswana....view safari