Ian Pletzer is a guide, ocean photographer, artist and wildlife enthusiast, as well as an author of two children’s books on conservation. After growing up and free roaming an hour outside of Cape Town, South Africa, he found his path by following his passion for wildlife and fascination with the great outdoors has led him to live a fortunate and varied life, immersed in nature.

As an accredited nature, safari and adventure Guide, Ian has led tours all over Africa, from South Africa, Botswana, Victoria Falls and East Africa. Ian’s gentle approach, boyish enthusiasm and generous manner in sharing his breadth of knowledge allows guests to experience enriched adventures, and gain a deeper appreciation for the land they travel and the wildlife they encounter. Ian’s deep love for the continent is what makes his trips so unique, and he sees himself as privileged to be able to open the eyes of his travellers, inviting them in to see this beautiful country through his extraordinary perspective.

In his downtime, Ian can be found immersed in nature somewhere along the Garden Route near his home in Plettenberg Bay, South Africa. This includes anything from standup paddling, birding and hiking or capturing Africa’s unique landscapes and seascapes through his lens. As an accomplished photographer, Ian takes inspiration for his ocean series from his sunrise cold water plunges – an essential part of his daily routine. His work aims to showcase the unharnessed beauty, wildness and joy of our oceans.

The focus of all Ian’s endeavours is centred around education and conservation, and it is his life’s mission with his work to preserve and enjoy the planets wild spaces. Ian has also published two children’s books, which aim to educate future conservationists.