Kaiwhai Safaris is proudly owned and operated by Francois Els & Erik Potgieter, with the expertise of our full-time, qualified Professional Hunter, AJ Els. Together, we are dedicated to providing an unforgettable hunting experience.
We believe that getting to know the Kaiwhai Crew helps create a more personal and welcoming experience. Our goal isn’t just to guide hunts—we’re here to build lasting friendships with fellow hunters. At Kaiwhai Safaris, you arrive as a client but leave as part of the family.
I have been a professional hunter since ’99, steeped in a family tradition that began when I was six, hunting alongside my dad. Early on, I discovered my passion for stalking and outsmarting animals in their own environment- a skill that ignited my hunting career. While I delved into bowhunting in the early 2000s, my affinity for rifle hunting endured. I’ve harvested over 40 species with a bow but cherish the adrenalin of big-caliber rifles. My extensive knowledge of the land, animals, birds, and flora, enables me to guide clients adeptly, whether for a 20-yard bowshot on a Buffalo or a 700-yard Kudu pursuit in the mountains.
I am a seasoned outdoorsman of 16 years, who thrives on the primal allure of hunting and tracking animals. My passion extends to the tranquil embrace of fishing, finding joy by the water’s edge. Living intimately with nature, I cherish the simplicity and authenticity it offers. In the heart of the wilderness, I have discovered a profound connection that transcends mere recreation. My love for hunting is epitomized by my preference for iron sight rifles, a testament to my appreciation for the pure, unfiltered experience of the chase. For me, every moment spent in nature is a celebration of life’s raw beauty and untamed spirit.
From a very young age AJ has been immersed in the world of hunting, and despite being the youngest member of the Kaiwhai team, his expertise speaks volumes. He proudly holds the title of one of the team’s Professional Hunters (PH), a role he earned through years of dedication and experience. The thrill of getting up close and personal with the animals fuels his enthusiasm, and his impressive track record with clients attests to his proficiency. AJ’s skills were honed by the Khoisan bushmen residing on the farm he grew up on, imparting the invaluable knowledge of tracking animals and knowledge about the bush.
Despite his age, his understanding of animals and the art of hunting is on a professional level. Armed with a .457 lever action rifle adorned with a red dot sight, he navigates the wild with a combination of skill and passion, always ready for the next thrilling pursuit.
Together with her partner Francois, they bring a shared passion for hunting that compliments our business ethic at Kaiwhai Safaris. Passionate about travel since 2001, her unique role includes guiding spouses on exciting excursions, making their time as enriching as their partner’s hunt. Beyond the hunting trip, she takes pride in arranging pre- and post-hunt extensions, allowing exploration of Africa’s diverse landscapes and cultures. Every journey she create for our clients is a personalized and exceptional experience, shaped by her enthusiasm for travel.
Altus is not only an exceptional photographer, videographer, and editor—he’s a true storyteller with a passion for capturing the raw beauty of the African wilderness. As a professional hunting guide with deep knowledge of wildlife and the land, Altus brings more than just technical skill to his craft—he brings authenticity.
Whether he’s filming a once-in-a-lifetime hunt, photographing a breathtaking sunrise, or guiding people on a hunt, Altus does it with unmatched energy and enthusiasm. His love for fishing, hunting, and the great outdoors is infectious, and his warm, lively personality lights up any campfire gathering.