Expeditions Guide James Kuria Ndung’u

James Kuria Ndung'u is the founder of Front Trails Safaris. He was born in Nairobi, Kenya and grew up in the central highlands of Kenya. An early trek into the “bundu” with his elder brothers was a backbone to his wildlife/conservation education strengths. He is an avid birder and professional bird-ringer/bander trained, qualified and certified through the South African Bird Ringing Scheme (SAFRING).

As a mountaineer, he undertook a Diploma course with The National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS). During his high school level, he was a very active member of the Wildlife Clubs of Kenya (WCK). His enrollment at The National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS), and undertook a mountaineering course led him to appreciate the high altitudes (he has scaled Point Lenena, Mt. Kenya 121 times; 21 summits to Uhuru Peak, Mt. Kilimanjaro, as a freelance mountain guide/leader, with several of the leading safari companies in Kenya and Tanzania respectively).

He took bird-watching as a hobby, later to develop it as a profession. As a first step, he joined Nature Kenya (formally The East African Natural History Society). He has learnt much about Natural History through the Society. At the National Museums of Kenya (NMK), Ornithology Department, he worked as a Field Assistant, where, he acquired in-depth knowledge and skills in bird’s identification, ringing/banding, taxidermy, avian science and other field craft techniques. After a short stint, he was employed by Origins Safaris (formally The East African Ornithological Safaris) as a tour driver/guide. He has worked in the capacity of Resident Ornithologist/Naturalist at the prestigious Windsor Golf & Country Club, Nairobi.

James has more than 15 years of experience as a naturalist/mountain guide. With his deep passion of overland/back-packing traveling and adventures, he has learnt much on the globe's flora and fauna on foot! He has continued to improve his skills and knowledge by attending a myriad of training courses offered in Eastern and Southern Africa. He has an excellent knowledge of the animals, birds, constellations, insects, plants, general history and geography. He formed Front Trails Safaris to offer you the best and first hand experience in exploring Mother Nature at its finest approach!

Available for lectures/slideshows about Kenya’s flora and fauna.