Save 5–7% in 2026 on All New Hideaways Africa Safaris!

Charles Ratcliffe
Enquire Now
PRIVATE TOURS
GUIDE'S STORY

Charles Ratcliffe

Known to most as “Trout”

Based in Cape Town, Charles has spent the past two decades guiding travellers through Southern and East Africa with an easy, conversational style and a deep respect for the natural world.

20+ Years Experience

Safari and Tour Guiding

Based in

Cape Town

Languages Spoken

English

Qualifications

Diploma Nature Conservation; MSc by dissertation in Ornithology; Nature Guide (NQF level 2); Cultural guide.

Interests

Photography & birding tours

Charles Ratcliffe

Charles Ratcliffe

20+ Years Experience

Safari and Tour Guiding

Based in

Cape Town

Languages Spoken

English

Qualifications

Diploma Nature Conservation; MSc by dissertation in Ornithology; Nature Guide (NQF level 2); Cultural guide.

Interests

Photography & birding tours

Enquire Now
Private TOURS
GUIDE'S STORY

Guiding Philosophy

Karen Blixen once wrote that being on a safari makes one feel like “bubbling over with heartfelt gratitude for being alive”. I try and emulate that expression through my guiding, and ultimately, connect people to something many folks lost generations ago – nature. I try not to over guide, but rather open doors into that world.

In Conversation with Charles Ratcliffe

Get to know the person behind the guide.

Play Video

About Charles Ratcliffe

My parents’ love of nature and exploring Southern Africa got me hooked. To then find out that I could make a living out of showing people that, bonus. As they say, “Do what you love, love what you do.”
Tanda Tula lodge, Timbavati reserve, Greater Kruger.
I call them “The firsts”. The first time a guest sees a leopard, the first time they hear a hyena call, the first time they stand beneath a baobab tree over a thousand years old. Just so rewarding to see people’s expressions of wonder and awe.
The northern parts of Kruger National Park has great sentimental meaning to me for family reasons. Botswana’s Okavango Delta and surrounds are off the charts game wise and the South Luangwa Valley (Zambia) for its simplistic lodges and wonderful photography. Lastly, Gabon, still got to get there – flyfishing, birding, and photography all rolled into one!

Moments from the Field

Years of guiding have a way of shaping what you notice. These moments reflect patience, perspective, and time spent paying attention.
Would you like a private guided safari with Charles Ratcliffe?
ENQUIRE NOW

Private Tours with this Guide

This is a private tour designed for you to enjoy with your own group. A minimum of four guests is required, although we recommend a group of six for the best experience.

Best of Botswana

11 Nights
Available Dates
14 June '27 - 24 June '27
Book This Private Tour

Best of Botswana and Zimbabwe

14 Nights
From $13 103.00
Available Dates
18 October '27 - 31 October '27
Book This Private Tour

Guest Reflections

“Charlie was a consummate professional, with deep, almost professorial, knowledge of the local area, flora and fauna. Not only did we learn a lot in our time with Charlie, but he's got a great personality and is just plain fun to be around.”

Gary, USA.

“Charlie – thanks you for bringing Southern Africa alive for us. We so enjoyed your knowledge and wit. It was special to meet your family and share a bit of your birthday with you.”

Staglins, USA.

“Charlie, what can I say? Nothing more and nothing less then “Maximum!!!”. What an absolute pleasure it has been spending time with you – you have made a wonderful experience absolutely unforgettable and so much fun. You are truly “THE LEGEND!!!” With heartfelt thanks.”

Natalie, USA.

Check Availability for a Guided Safari

Our private guides work with a limited number of travellers each year to ensure deeply personal experiences. Please share as much detail as possible so we can assess availability and suitability.