Meet Our Team
In India, animals are not just part of the wilderness, they are part of our soul.
— Valmik Thapar
At Safari Animalier Inde, our true strength lies in our team – and the strength of our team comes from our travelers, who trust us by deciding to go on an adventure with us. Our philosophy is clear: great achievements are never the work of a single individual, but of a united team working together towards a shared vision. It is thanks to this unity and the trust of our guests that we can offer unique wildlife safari experiences in India, combining passion, authenticity, and respect for nature.
Kanika Soni
Operations Manager
Since 2017, Kanika has been the backbone of Safari Animalier Inde. With unparalleled expertise in operations management, she ensures that every detail runs flawlessly—from handling client inquiries and bookings to coordinating with logistics partners. Whether for solo travelers or large groups, her dedication guarantees seamless and memorable stays. Her passion and meticulousness make her an indispensable member of our team.
Amit Kumar
Sales Manager
A graduate in Hospitality and Hotel Management, Amit combines his academic background with a genuine love for India’s wilderness. He listens carefully to each traveler’s interests and needs, and designs personalized itineraries accordingly – from selecting the most suitable lodges to planning unique activities. With Amit, your safari is not just a trip, but a meticulously planned adventure designed to exceed all your expectations.
Mukesh
Safari Driver & Guide, Bandhavgarh National Park
Originally from the village of Tala, near Bandhavgarh, Mukesh has over 15 years of experience as a guide. His deep connection with the forest allows him to understand wildlife in its purest essence. Highly regarded by professional photographers, he knows exactly how to position you to capture the perfect shot, while letting nature take its course. His passion makes every safari authentic and unforgettable.
Satyapal Singh
Naturalist, Jim Corbett National Park
Originally from Bharatpur, Rajasthan—home to India’s most famous bird sanctuary—Satpal has been passionate about ornithology since childhood. Over the years, he has worked with top lodges around Jim Corbett and now operates as a freelance naturalist throughout India. In addition to leading tours, he dedicates his free time to studying bird and mammal behavior and conducting conservation workshops.
Dinesh Shukla
Naturalist & Guide, Ranthambore National Park
Raised in Sawai Madhopur near Ranthambore, Dinesh grew up exploring the jungle with his father, sparking a lifelong passion for wildlife. With over 16 years of guiding experience, he has developed remarkable expertise in both flora and fauna. Dinesh has even participated in official tiger censuses and maintains a substantial wildlife database. His knowledge and enthusiasm make him a true companion for safari enthusiasts.
Mukesh
Safari Driver & Guide, Bandhavgarh National Park
Originally from the village of Tala, near Bandhavgarh, Mukesh has over 15 years of experience as a guide. His deep connection with the forest allows him to understand wildlife in its purest essence. Highly regarded by professional photographers, he knows exactly how to position you to capture the perfect shot, while letting nature take its course. His passion makes every safari authentic and unforgettable.
Bhupesh
Naturalist & Senior Guide, Kanha
Hailing from a tribal community in Kanha, Bhupesh has always been close to nature. Holding a Master’s degree and with nearly twenty years of experience in nature tourism, he is an exceptional tracker of tigers and birds. Recognized within the eBird community as one of Madhya Pradesh’s top birdwatchers, he also contributes to surveys and research. Travelers appreciate his captivating stories and his extensive knowledge of Kanha’s rich biodiversity.
Nayan Mondhe
Naturalist & Guide, Ranthambore National Park
A true example of the harmony between community and conservation, Nayan developed his passion for wildlife at a young age, inspired by his uncle who worked for the Forest Department. His first encounter with a tiger at the age of 15 remains etched in his memory—an experience he compares to “a first kiss with nature.” Today, Nayan embodies the new generation of naturalists committed to conservation, combining passion and responsibility to inspire travelers and protect the forest.
Satheesh Kumar
Bird guide
Originally from Trivandrum, Kerala, Satheesh Kumar is a passionate and experienced birdwatching guide with in-depth knowledge of the rich and diverse birdscapes of South India (Kerala, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu), the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, and Sri Lanka. With over twenty years of experience in birdwatching, he has transformed his personal passion into true professional expertise. Satheesh possesses exceptional knowledge of bird species, their identification, songs, behavior, and the complex ecosystems in which they live.
