Chris Johnston
General Manager
Having travelled through most of South East Asia, South, East and Central Africa, I have now become our resident primate expert. From watching gorillas in the mountains of Rwanda, following chimpanzees in Uganda or trekking through the rainforests of Borneo to spend time with the Orangutans, I have developed a passion and understanding for these incredible areas.
I have been involved in our pioneering tours to some of the worlds least explored primate habitats, including the rainforests of the Congo (Brazzaville) and Central African Republic as well as the wilds of the Democratic Republic of Congo. I am also heading off back to the rainforest of Borneo to revisit our Orangutan programme and to look for alternatives programmes in Sumatra.
Countries you sell?
Rwanda, Uganda, Central African Republic, Republic of Congo, Gabon, Tanzania, Borneo.
What has been your favourite travel experience?
Following a troop of chimps in Uganda, meeting the Ba’Aka tribe in Central Africa, flying over Siberia, watching humpback whales breach off the coast of Iceland.
The best hotel/lodge that you have stayed in?
Virunga Lodge – situated high in the rolling hills of Rwanda, with volcanic lakes and mountains to one side and mist-covered volcanoes on the other, you feel as if you are sitting on top of the world.
What has been your most remote travel experience?
A pirogue ride along the Sangha River in the Congo surrounded by giant butterflies.
Most embarrassing travel experience?
Getting arrested at the South Africa border crossing for credit card fraud.
Your one luxury when you travel?
Time. And earplugs.
What’s your best piece of travel advice?
A country is usually defined by its people, so get to know your hosts.
Where you would like to visit next and why?
Democratic Republic of Congo to look for Bonobo’s. I’d be keen to see what they make of me.