A passion for wildlife that turned into a life's purpose!
My name is Eléa, but in the African bush, everyone calls me Elle (pronounced "Ellie").
I have been fascinated by the animal kingdom for as long as I can remember, a passion largely sparked by Disney Nature documentaries. At 18, I decided to fully dedicate my studies to understanding and preserving wildlife. After completing a bachelor's degree in animal biology and ethology, I moved closer to the field to live out this passion right at the heart of nature.
It was upon discovering the exceptional richness of South Africa that this calling truly clicked. After spending time there through internships and eco-volunteering programs, I took the leap to train as a safari guide.
To round out my background, I also completed a master's degree in science communication, aiming to share scientific knowledge in an accessible, engaging way.
Today, I want to share this passion through authentic safaris built on observing, understanding, and respecting the wild world.
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Bachelor's Degree in Organismal Biology and Animal Behavior
Master's Degree in Science Communication and Public Engagement (in progress)
FGASA NQF Level 2 Field Guide Certification
Wilderness First Aid Certificate
Track & Sign Level II
Certified Safari Guide
The FGASA Nature Site Guide (NQF2) qualification is a recognised certification across Africa for professional guiding. I completed several months of intensive training in South Africa, combining wildlife knowledge, tracking, and guiding techniques. This certification guarantees safaris conducted with full respect for nature, safety, and the guest experience.
Being a guide isn't just a job on paper, it's a genuine passion that requires strong physical and mental dedication. Our days typically stretch from 5:00 AM to 11:00 PM (or more). Our role is to accompany you every step of the way, making sure your stay is seamless, stress-free, and unforgettable.
Why Elle Into The Wild ?
Originally, the name Elle Into The Wild came from a special encounter and memory during my second trip to South Africa.
Since my French name, Eléa, wasn't always easy for English speakers to pronounce, a guide gave me the nickname "Elle" (pronounced Ellie) during a target shooting session. That simple nickname quickly became the symbol of my connection to Africa.
When I started creating the identity for Elle Into The Wild, I wanted to go beyond just a nickname. In French, "elle" means "she". I chose to keep this name to pay tribute to the women who work every day for wildlife and nature conservation in Africa and around the world.
Through Elle Into The Wild, my goal is to highlight those who protect the living world, while sharing my passion for nature.
To me, a safari is about far more than just spot-checking animals. It is a full immersion into the heart of unique ecosystems, where every outing into the field is different and nature unfolds at its own pace.
As a safari guide, my goal is to share much more than a simple sighting. I aim to bring the bush to life by explaining animal behavior, species interactions, and the vital role each creature plays in its environment.
A safari trip calls for patience, curiosity, and a willingness to embrace the unexpected. Wildlife is never predictable and that element of surprise is precisely what makes every experience one of a kind.
My vision of a safari
TO FOLLOW MY ADVENTURES, FOLLOW ME ON INSTAGRAM!
