As the migratory herds continue to gather and the young made it past the gaze of surrounding predators, the next chapter begins to unfold. Nature’s script for the greatest show on Earth is taking shape.
In the months ahead, the herds will travel through the long rains toward the plains of the western corridor, seeking the fresh waters that flow through the river. From there, they will continue north passing through treacherous plains, avoiding predators at every turn. Even before reaching the famed Mara River crossing, some will succumb as prey while pushing through.
Several of our best guides currently on safari in the lower Serengeti, along with Roving Bushtops camp owners we consider our close friends, shared footage of the herds. This isn’t professional videography or specialized equipment, just a mobile phone, a sighting and quick thinking, nothing more. As you watch, think of the dark side of the moon. You may not yet see the full herds moving in complete unison, but you can sense them gathering much like the unseen side of the moon that we know is there, even when it isn’t illuminated. In time, it reveals itself. The same is true of the migration. The herds are forming, building, preparing. Soon they will reach the river crossings. Soon they will converge.
Stay tuned as we continue tracking the migration’s progress. We’ll check back in a few months to witness the next stage of this remarkable journey.
Welcome back to a journey within. As we continue our new year of discovery, we are honored to continue Mahen’s Alphabet of Emotional Intelligence.
First launched last January, this series remains a vital part of Mahen’s enduring legacy, exploring the inner landscapes that shape how we experience the world. Join us as we continue our trek through the alphabet, uncovering the emotional tools that continue to enrich our travels and our lives.
P – Patience: Trust the timing of our journey.
Patience means facing life’s challenges with the strength and courage we have. It’s continuing to love and laugh no matter what, because we all know that circumstances will change. Love and laughter give life deeper meaning and help us stay determined to have Patience. Patience teaches us to sow the seed in the form of right actions and to allow the fruits of those actions to ripen in their own time. We don’t need to think about the future benefits of what we do now, because we know we will receive what we need when the time is right. Patience is essential to daily life—and might be key to a happy one. Having Patience means being able to wait calmly in the face of frustration or adversity.
Patience is not about giving up or feeling tired. It’s a positive trait, the ability to wait for the right moment. There are many examples that show Patience: The lioness waiting in the grass for her prey, moving only her tail for hours. The old monk waiting for God, with wise and calm eyes. The slow growth of a strong oak tree, starting as a tiny acorn and growing bit by bit. We live in a fast-paced world with fast trains, cars, walking, and fast-food restaurants. Even our view of growth is sped up with special cameras. Speed isn’t bad, but we need to ask: Does speed make us stop thinking? If it does, we may rush through life without reflecting. This can be dangerous. Maybe we need to make room for Patience.
Life is full of unexpected twists and turns, and we’ll encounter all sorts of drivers along the way. Some will speed past us, while others will crawl along. Some will be courteous and let us merge, while others will honk and gesture. But don’t let their behavior dictate our journey. Stay focused on our own path, and keep moving forward. And when someone does inevitably switch lanes without a signal, just take a deep breath, smile, and keep on driving. Don’t let their recklessness ruin our trip. Instead, use it as an opportunity to practice empathy, understanding and Patience. After all, life is a journey, not a destination. The road may be long and winding, but with the right attitude, we’ll arrive at our destination feeling fulfilled, grateful, and ready for whatever comes next. So drive carefully, drive kindly, and enjoy the ride and BE PATIENCE.
“Learning Patience can be a difficult experience, but once conquered, we will find life is easier.”
Stay tuned for Letter Q
As we do each year around this time, our annual trending destinations video is ready. Every month, we track a range of key indicators including buying habits and destinations at the time they are booked, not just where travelers are going right now. It’s amazing how much purchasing behavior can shift in a 12-month period, and how often top destinations change.
The locations that rise to the top seem to follow a common thread, they represent destinations that offer more experiential, more remoteness, more authenticity, and most importantly, more time beyond comfort zones. This reminds me of a something I read from a study at Cornell University and a second study from Harvard and Yale about the correlation between the types of destinations that are trending and the style of luxury travel Big Five has long pioneered.
I’m pleased to share a brief overview of those findings below, along with an inspiring video for you to enjoy.
The Mechanism: Attention Restoration Theory (ART)
Research from Cornell University’s College of Human Ecology (specifically the work of environmental psychologists like Dr. Nancy Wells) supports Attention Restoration Theory.
The Physiology of “Planetary Health”
The “One Health” Framework
Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health promotes the concept of Planetary Health—the understanding that human health is dependent on the health of natural systems.
Stress Reduction & Biophilia
Yale School of the Environment has long championed the Biophilia Hypothesis (popularized by Harvard’s E.O. Wilson).
What trend are you following?
Part II of our East Africa dispatch brings us to my native, Kenya. And as always, a trip to Kenya means reconnecting with old friends, not just former classmates, but longtime partners in adventure as well.
Starting off at Ol Lentile, where on a previous trip I had the most memorable elephant encounter (more on that later). But the best part of my stay, wasn’t actually the stay. It was reuniting with my friends Solomon and Boniface. Now mind you, this is right after I was labeled an honorary gorilla tracker by the guides in Bwindi because of my frequent visits. Seeing these two again brought a huge smile to my face. Solomon was not yet at the camp during my last visit, however he and I had connected. Boni on the other hand, was my brother from another… and our last visit was, memorable to say the least.
On my last visit, Boni and I were walking along a trail when we heard elephants in the distance and were aware of their presence. Much like most activities at Ol Lentile, you are on foot or on an ATV. The vehicle isn’t used that often, only to transfer to and from a starting point. As we rounded the curve, a small hill created a blind spot along the path. All of a sudden, a tusk, then two, come to sight. Now mind you, we were, as Solomon likes to say, walking like Maasai, at a brisk pace. Boni and I stopped and stood still as I remembered from past encounters that you never run. We knew we were not in danger, as both of us have had amazing close encounters with elephant over the years, for Boni, his whole life. He has had the closest of all encounters with cheetah and lion, however that is a story for another day. Slowly we moved off the path, almost in slow motion, making it clear to this young bull that we were not a threat. This whole time we were just amazed at another example of just how intelligent these animals are. All of these memories came back to me, as Boni, Solomon, and I talked about the conservancy model, recorded an episode of our podcast, and as I found myself once again immersed into the Samburu way of life.
The final chapter unfolded in the Mara, at a camp that I honestly discovered by chance nearly 20 years ago. I met Andy Stuart, co-founder of Bushtops Camps, on a flight to the Mara as we both happened to spot his camp from the air on our way in. The conservancy model that so proudly represents a path forward for responsible safaris in Kenya, was still in its infancy, which makes me even prouder to see what has become of the camps that participate in this model. Yes, there are still some issues to work through, however the vision that started this path, is still our north star. With the abundance of resident game in this section of the Mara, the sightings began immediately. However, it was not until we were in the main reserve, that we had the most fun.
While vehicles in the southeastern sector crowded around radio reports of lion sightings, we chose to steer clear. I was triggered by the number of vehicles around these lions, something I spoke passionately about in various speeches, and in articles for outlets like the Wall Street Journal and the New York Times. Crowds of vehicles around one or groups of animals is not what safari pioneers had in mind, and I was reminded of that whenever we moved out of reserves and into community owned land. Now where we had fun with this, was calling by radio to tell one of the group drivers surrounding the lions, about a cheetah sighting we had made without anyone knowing. We gave them a location that was off by a little bit, in order to ensure the cheetah was respected and her boundaries of movement protected, aka, the Kenya bluff.
One by one, the vehicles scattered, and we were left to peacefully view the lions without encroaching on their habitat. Once we left back for the conservancy, I felt empowered to speak even louder about the need for better controls in reserves, the justification of higher prices, and to highlight the work that conservancy-based camps like Bushtops and many others are doing, to preserve the natural setting.
We are not living on this land, we are simply borrowing it, holding it for the next generation.
I picked up my first camera when I was four years old. While brushing my teeth at Treetops in Kenya, a shadow cast the bathroom dark. I peered through the gaps in the wood panels and saw what could only be an elephant eyeball, no more than 15 inches from my face, staring back at me. I yelled out to my mom as I ran to grab the camera. I wasn’t scared, I was thrilled! Camera in hand, I zoomed in, without a clue what I was doing.
I had watched others adjust their camera lenses, and it looked like it worked for them, or so I thought. Before I could figure it out for myself, a monkey snatched the camera right out of my hands.
I fell in love with my camera at 14 during a solo trip to Costa Rica. I joined a group in Arenal for a nighttime hike to see the volcano’s lava flows. At the time, Arenal was very active, erupting roughly every 35 minutes. The crater was angled so that you could safely approach the higher side at night, or so I thought. Thunder shook the ground as I started taking photos. This time, I knew enough about my camera to be dangerous. Well, I will never know how I did as ash landed on my lens, burning right through both the lens and the film. How I didn’t get burned myself remains a mystery.
I learned how to master my camera on safari. I got better with an 85mm lens, I got comfortable with a 300mm lens and got daring with a new 600 mm lens. A rare Striped Hyena tested my skills as they are one of the hardest to photo well due to their appearance.
What really got me comfortable are primates. Taking photos of them, contrasting the landscape with their soulful eyes. If safaris got me comfortable, primates made me confident, especially in the untouched area of Kyambura Gorge, and the less traveled southern sector or Bwindi Forest in Uganda.
You’re never quite done learning, and I’m already eyeing my next lens and camera body. I wonder what my next level up will be.
Uruguay
Uruguay has long been a destination we have been excited about as a standalone destination. My colleague Gisela who many of you know was just there. We have been waiting to share her words and thoughts about her Uruguay.
“The last trip I took in 2025 was to the wonderful country of Uruguay. It was my third time there, and yet it felt completely different from the previous visits. Those earlier trips were quick getaways, one of those journeys you take just to add another country to your bucket list: a visit to Colonia, its historic quarter declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, crossing the Río de la Plata from Buenos Aires, and another time a brief stopover in Montevideo.
This time was different; I wanted to truly experience Uruguay deeply.
In my constant search for new destinations and authentic experiences for our travelers, I embarked on this journey with curiosity wide open and my senses fully engaged. Uruguay, the land of mate. They say Uruguayans have a third arm: the thermos. Seeing people walking down the street, riding bicycles, or driving with mate always in hand, young and old alike, is a daily scene that speaks of identity and shared rituals.
But Uruguay is not just mate.
Uruguay is its people: warm, genuine, and generous. It is a small country, with approximately 3.4 million inhabitants, where human connection is still very much alive. You walk into a café and locals greet each other because they know one another. That touched me deeply. I live in fabulous Miami, but I grew up in Chiclayo, Peru, where everyone knew each other, helped one another, and celebrated together. Uruguay awakened that emotional memory in me,that sense of community I thought I had left behind.
As a Travel Designer specializing in luxury travel, I found in Uruguay exactly what many travelers are searching for without knowing how to put it into words: understated luxury, soulful experiences, and real stories.
In Carmelo, I discovered its wine-producing side, where Tannat reigns supreme. I visited intimate, family-owned vineyards where the owners themselves share the passion behind every bottle. At Bodega Cordano, the wine cellar operates within their own general store, a true tribute to tradition. Then, at El Legado, three brothers turned winemaking into an act of love for their father, using wine as a way to tell his story and honoring his memory.
I also learned about artisanal cheese production at Vigna Cheese Farm, where I met Agustín, an architect by profession who chose to restore an old house and, in order to sustain it, discovered his passion for cheesemaking. He not only created a product of exceptional quality but also a source of income for the local community.
Uruguay, like Argentina, is a land of cattle and asados. But an asado is not just about food, it is about time, connection, and conversation. Cooking slowly is part of the ritual. It’s about sharing with family or friends, building new bonds around the fire, savoring empanadas, sausages, fresh salads, and extraordinary cuts of meat. I experienced this while listening to the story of Rebeca and Mario, who restored their grandmother’s house and transformed it into a Posada. Over time, they found ways to preserve the property by creating an organic garden and producing a delicious fig jam which I couldn’t resist to buy some for enjoying at home!
Visiting Olivos de las Ánimas is not just about learning how olive oil is made. It is about experiencing the deep passion for agriculture that Martín Robaina shares in every detail. With great patience, he imported olive trees from Italy until finding the perfect combination to create a truly dreamlike olive oil. And the way he presents the tasting is so warm and personal that you simply won’t want to leave his home.
Montevideo, in its own way, feels beautifully frozen in time. Its low-rise buildings, the Carrasco neighborhood with its grand old mansions reminiscent of another era, and the elegant Sofitel standing out with its imposing architecture. After exploring the historic center, I had the opportunity to meet the renowned Lobo Núñez, who allowed me to feel the depth and power of candombe through the rhythm of the drums.
If you believe art is only for experts, Uruguay proves otherwise. At MACA, the Atchugarry Museum of Contemporary Art, art is experienced outdoors. Pablo Atchugarry has created a space where regional artists can freely express themselves. Walking through it, combined with a picnic, gave me a profound sense of peace and reminded me of the true meaning of travel: connecting with the soul.
Punta del Este was another dream fulfilled. It transported me to vintage magazines that once showcased royalty and iconic figures lounging on the beach. That bohemian yet sophisticated atmosphere is still very much alive.
Just when I thought I had already discovered the most interesting aspects of Uruguay’s wine scene, I arrived in Garzón. Viñedo Garzón is an ode to modernism, sophisticated, strikingly different from the rustic charm of Carmelo, offering wines of outstanding quality and an impeccable experience.
And finally, the perfect way to end the journey: José Ignacio. Horseback riding, biking, endless beaches. The perfect balance between nature, calm, and elegance. The ideal place to say goodbye to Uruguay… or to begin planning your return.
Uruguay is not a destination you simply visit. It is a place you feel, you live, and you carry with you.“
Welcome back to a journey within. As we step into a new year of discovery, we are honored to continue Mahen’s Alphabet of Emotional Intelligence. First launched last January, this series remains a vital part of Mahen’s enduring legacy, exploring the inner landscapes that shape how we experience the world. Join us as we continue our trek through the alphabet, uncovering the emotional tools that continue to enrich our travels and our lives.
Positive thinking is a constant attention to the details that make up an average day. These are such simple lines here, but they’re so difficult to follow and put into practice.
O – Optimism: Embracing a positive outlook on life.
In a world where uncertainty often looms and challenges frequently arise, one powerful trait stands out as a sign of resilience and hope: Optimism is the unwavering belief that good things will happen, even in the face of adversity. It is the lens through which we can choose to see the world, focusing on the silver linings rather than the clouds.
What is Optimism? Optimism is more than just a sunny disposition or a cheerful outlook; it’s a mindset that actively seeks the best possible outcomes. This perspective encourages us to focus on potential and possibilities, rather than dwelling on difficulties and obstacles. An optimist sees opportunities in challenges and believes that setbacks are temporary and manageable.
The positive outlook associated with the word Optimism. It helps reduce the risk of depression and anxiety by fostering resilience and a sense of control over one’s life. People with an Optimistic mindset are often more successful in their personal and professional lives. They are more likely to set ambitious goals and persevere through challenges. Their positive attitude attracts opportunities and fosters better relationships with others. Optimists are generally more pleasant to be around. Their positive outlook can also inspire and uplift those around them, creating an encouraging environment.
Let’s consider the story of Thomas Edison, one of history’s greatest inventors. When asked about his numerous failed attempts to create the electric light bulb, Edison famously replied, “I have not failed. I’ve just found 10,000 ways that won’t work.” His Optimism and perseverance led to one of the most significant inventions of the modern era. Similarly, in our everyday lives, we can connect the power of Optimism to overcome obstacles, achieve our goals, and inspire those around us. Whether it’s tackling a challenging project at work, or pursuing a long-held dream, a positive outlook can make all the difference. Optimism involves believing that good things will happen.Though it can be hard to remain positive in the face of obstacles, remember that Optimism is a skill we can learn.
In essence Optimism is a choice—a conscious decision to see the world in a positive light and to believe in the potential for good. By embracing Optimism, we can enhance our health, improve our mental well-being, and increase our chances of success. Moreover, our positive outlook can have a ripple effect, uplifting those around us and creating a more hopeful and resilient community. So, let’s choose Optimism and watch as our lives transform for the better.
“Optimism doesn’t mean that you are blind to the reality of the situation. It means that you remain motivated to seek a solution to whatever problems arise.” —The Dalai Lama
Stay tune for letter P
I often think about the conversations I had with my father when I was a child and my first holiday home from university, much like my son was this year. He didn’t speak shop talk, though that would always come up with he and my mother. Actually, he spoke to me about responsibility and the type of person I wanted to become. He taught me that trust is not a line item, it is the currency of our souls. Though I paraphrase his exact words, I heard the message loud and clear. Fast forward almost five decades, and I can still hear his voice saying those words.
As we pass through the threshold of 2026, there is always optimism for what lies ahead, even with all the uncertainties and fear that surround us. I’m also reminded of words shared by someone I admire, who once said on stage, “As we look ahead, let’s not forget to look back and see where we came from.”
Last year wasn’t just another year in our five-decade history; it was a year where the abstract became concrete. In August, we fulfilled a quiet promise I made to my father back in 2015. Big Five Tours & Expeditions officially became a Certified B Corporation™.
We placed every aspect of our operations, our supply chains, our governance, our environmental footprint, under a microscope. We did this not for the accolade, but to prove that a family-owned company can stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the highest global benchmarks of ethical business. It was our way of embodying a phrase handed down from my grandfather to my father, something that is at the forefront of our foundation.
“We come into this world with nothing, and we take nothing with us when we leave. What matters is what we do in between. It is not what we take up, but what we give out that makes us rich.” – Lavji Kalyanji Sanghrajka
But we didn’t stop at certification. We needed to measure the unmeasurable. For years, our industry has counted visitors only as a main metric. In late 2025, we changed the metric. We released our global study after almost a year of exhaustive research showing how many jobs are supported by each booking to our destinations, broken down by hotel, transport, land services, and most importantly, community-based employment. You can read more about that in our 2025 Impact Report.
By the way, on average, 35 jobs were supported by each booking. Think about that… 35 livelihoods supported, 35 families impacted, simply because a traveler chose to explore with purpose. This is the intersection where luxury meets human connection. We also expanded our family, joining forces with new partners to bring the spirit of South America to the next generation of travelers in India, proving that the desire for meaningful, conscious exploration knows no borders.
However, that is not what gives me hope for 2026 and beyond. It’s Mahen’s alphabet of Emotional Intelligence, something we started at the beginning of 2025, showcasing inspirational words my father worked on until his passing. When we found and started releasing his alphabet, I had no idea the kind of impact it would have on you and me. I would get countless emails from many of you letting me know how that week’s letter helped you in some way. So rather than rush the release to complete the alphabet, we are going to continue in the same cadence, releasing his letters one by one, each narrated by his voice, in his words. Stay tuned for the letter O. It means as much to me that you enjoy these letters, as it means to you receiving them.
2026, like any year, will have its ups and downs, its joys, and its trials. No matter what you are feeling that day, joy or uncertainty, call me, email me, or message me. Let’s do it together.
Here is to a great 2026, filled with success and personal growth beyond your dreams.
In October 2025, the tomb of Amenhotep III reopened after a 20-year renovation project. While not yet opened for general visits, Big Five remains steadfast in our commitment to spotlighting local archaeologists who are a wealth of knowledge yet are not given the proper due credit. Though the televisions cameras don’t see them, we do.
It was in 2024, when we made a commitment to highlight local archeologists in order to create a fair opportunity for them to showcase their work for our guests. You can read about that initiative here: Big Five Tours & Expeditions Adds New Initiative in Egypt
Well, our work with the local community of the brightest minds, and the new tomb of Amenhotep III converged like two worlds into one amazing experience in Luxor when four local archeologists in charge of the restoration project personally led us through. I read about this article in the Associated Press just two months earlier with unabashed excitement and challenged our team to find a way to be among the first to enter this tomb. Traveling with this year’s amazing group of archaeologists, we proceeded with the short walk up the dirt hill.
Unlocking the gate at the entry was an experience you see in Hollywood movies, a padlock preventing access, being removed by a colleague with a ring full of keys so large, it would make a facilities manager proud. Down the stairs we went, so silent you could hear your heartbeat and a pin drop at the same time. No lines here, no tourists thinking they are the next Peter Lik, it was just us.
As I glanced back at the group descending, their eyes were wide with curiosity, yet no one spoke. Even our Egyptologist, deeply experienced in the field of archaeology, was visibly awed and grateful for another rare firsthand encounter. I then looked to our country manager, a second father to me, and he said the words he always does when he knows I’m left speechless: “You’re welcome.”
You can also read about this opening here: Pharoah’s tomb in Egypt’s Valley of the Kings reopens to the public after 2-decade renovation
Enjoy the second video in our two-part dispatch.
Back in Egypt, it is time for Part I of our annual Egypt Dispatch. Returning here with my extended family is always special but the timing of this year’s adventure is quite auspicious, with the inauguration of the GEM. While I’ve visited the new museum for years, seeing the Tut exhibit and solar boat finally move, and all the new exhibits on display, I was both relieved and excited.
It was earlier that day that a photo popped up on my feed. It was a picture of Tahrir Square from 2010, and modern day that I shared back in 2021 when the royal parade took place. Looking back 15 years later, one has to marvel at how far Egypt has come. From a dark period, Egypt rose to a time with the largest collection of antiquities in the world, the focus of global attention, the subject of countless documentaries on every streaming platform, and a genuine buzz like I have never seen before. Egypt is truly at the center of the universe, where it belongs. I remember seeing this group of advisor partners chuckle when I told them we’d visit the pyramids first thing in the morning “to get them out of the way”. They didn’t know what that meant until we arrived at the GEM (Grand Egyptian Museum). Now the GEM visit visuals are in the video accompanying this blog, however what cannot be shown is what is the most important.
Before entering the GEM, we surprised the group with a private visit to an area of the museum not open to the public. After a video blackout was enforced, we entered a sterile, hospital-like hallway and passed through two large laboratory doors. There she was, a mummy from the 2018 discovery at the Amun temple in Luxor. Her face, turned slightly to the side and unwrapped, revealed the jewelry she wore and the terrified expression that was likely her last before mummification. Linked to the era of Amenhotep and dated between 1543 and 1292 B.C., she was in the process of restoration and prepped for her eventual display (remember the name Amenhotep for Dispatch II).
Experiences like this are part of our ongoing commitment to support local archaeologists and excavators who work quietly behind the scenes. Since 2023, we’ve made it our mission to help ensure they receive the recognition and resources their work deserves, as part of our sustainable pledge to Egypt.
Enjoy the video and stay tuned for Part II
It was amazing seeing so many of you at ILTM in Cannes. This is by far our favorite international show, not because we get to see you but also because we get to enjoy Cannes all lit up for the holidays. It looks like something straight from a postcard. The weather has been more forgiving this year, not as cold, however the light snowfall is definitely missed.
That said there are two main reasons I love coming here. First, I get to see all of you, and I get to be in Cannes. The yearly ritual of pizza on the final night at Le Vesuvio is a tradition started by my friends and advisor partners, Sandy, Ena, and Melissa. Though they were not in Cannes this year, the tradition lived on with a lively spirit and plenty of laughter so much that I’m sure the wait staff couldn’t wait for us to leave. Second, the macaroons, which are not for me. Let me explain. My wife and my early teen daughter eagerly look forward to the French macaroons I pick while transiting through Paris. The packaging keeps them fresh while amazing advisor partners like Alyson Nash help translate into French what I can barely say in English, “Keep these on ice. I will be back to pick them up, so they stay fresh for the trip home.” Thanks to all these wonderful people and more who helped me feel at home in Cannes.
This year might have been our most productive yet. Thanks to the digital avatar platform my friend Dr Jill Schiefelbein helped connect us with, daily videos of Flat Ash (yes he is back), are being sent to each day’s meeting attendees along with a landing page that helps continue the conversation. That means we finally break the cycle of sending those dreaded “I wanted to follow up with you” emails that we all know don’t get read. Instead, we are providing instant access that is both efficient and respectable of our advisor partners’ valuable time.
You can check out that video and landing page here – The Big Five Effect
As Cannes wraps up, the annual migration to Egypt begins as the 2025 Egypt Educational starts in the next few days with incredible advisor partners joining us for what will be an unforgettable journey. Stay tuned for that dispatch.
In the mean time, Au plaisir de vous revoir. Next stop, Cairo!
2025 Impact Report – Big Five Tours & Expeditions
As I wish our US Partners a Happy Thanksgiving, a thought entered my mind, when I was speaking with my colleagues about the message. Every year, the same static message goes out with a holiday greeting wishing you a safe holiday. While we echo that, a different idea took shape. How do we show gratitude, more than simply expressing it? How do we inspire gratitude more than simply wishing it for someone else?
Enter, our first ever Impact Report. An annual project that is not only part of a B Corp deliverable, more importantly, it is a way for us to illustrate gratitude. We get asked regularly about the positive effect our work and our existence have in the communities we have. How do we quantify it without using general numbers? How can we quantify it on a granular level?
Well, that started with the travel jobs report we released a few weeks ago, taking all of our destinations through an 8 month study to showcase how many jobs one booking supports or creates.
We did this because world leaders demonstrated repeatedly, that their understanding of the aggregate contribution tourism makes to the global GDP left a lot to be desired. Instead of being upset, I was grateful they couldn’t compute it. That allowed our project to serve a clearly needed purpose. That report was was the basis for our global impact report, and the positive effect our efforts are having from Flamingo Preservation in northern Peru, to Rhino Anti-Poaching in Kenya, to Cultural Preservations in the Amazon Jungle, to Women’s Micro Entrepreneurship in the Andes.
So on this Thanksgiving, we give thanks to all of you who partner with us, whether you are in the US, Canada, India, Australia, New Zealand or anywhere else. Sending your guests with Big Five and allowing them to be part of our positive impact process, is the very reason this was possible.
We exist because of you. Our work exists because of you. We are so much more than a travel provider, because of you.
Happy Thanksgiving, please enjoy reading our Impact Report. We kept it short, and pardon the pun, impactful.
The offices will be closed on Thursday, November 27th and Friday, November 28th in observance of the holiday.
2025 Impact Report – Big Five Tours & Expeditions
I just returned from my latest trip to Colombia – my 43rd visit, to be exact. This time it was a quick stop, just long enough to see Medellín’s ongoing transformation quietly unfolding in plain sight. I have to admit, writing this makes me feel like I’m channeling my inner New York Times travel editor….you know, those 36- or 48-hour city guides by Nell McShane Wulfhart? I love those articles. So here I am, ironically once again writing from a plane seat, sharing my best Nell McShane Wulfhart-style take on Medellín. No transformation tour, no museums, and definitely no Comuna 13 (which, sadly, has become Colombia’s new poster child for overtourism).
This time, it was four comunas – 14, 10, 6, and 3 – in 48 hours. This 36th visit to Medellín offered a completely new way to experience one of my favorite cities. From a community kitchen cooking class tucked away in a secluded neighborhood that doubles as a social impact project, to exploring the country’s largest private orchid collection on the way to the airport, to a coffee experience that skips the bean tasting in favor of farm-to-bean eating high up in the hills – this is the Medellín you HAVE to see.
The highlight? Comuna 3 and the inspiring Constellations Project. It took me 36 visits to finally hear someone say what truly needed to be said – and Javier in Comuna 3 did just that. There’s a significant generational gap there, especially among those aged 31 to 52, and bridging it will require thoughtful, responsible tourism. (More on that soon in a blog post and podcast episode.)
Oh and I’ve found a new favorite hotel in Medellín. I even have another cocktail named after me. (ego stroke)
Enjoy the video.
On Monday, November 3, after a long wait and years in the making, the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) was finally inaugurated. It was an incredible feeling to witness this moment in a country where I’ve spent so much time – a journey that began back in 2010. This marks a defining moment for Egypt, now home to the world’s largest collection of antiquities on display. It’s worth clarifying, however, that while many say the GEM “officially opened” on Monday, the museum has actually opened in stages. With each new section unveiled, we’ve sent our colleague Nour to revisit and document her experiences.
This time around, the long-awaited arrival of King Tut’s artifacts and his dedicated hall, which I had the honor of seeing in 2023, is finally open with a complete display. In addition, many returned and newfound artifacts from all over were added to the display. Truth be told, if you were to stop and see each exhibit in each hall, it would take you no less than 3 hours. Good thing they have two coffee shops (and yes one is a Starbucks). When I first walked through the GEM years ago, I thought travelers came there to see the pyramids and while there, also see the GEM. I learned quickly from that visit way back, that it was in fact the other way around. The GEM is the crown jewel in Egypt’s history, and it’s just the beginning.
As is our custom, with the new development, Nour returned to the GEM and we share a video of what she saw, in raw form, along with her thoughts, written down as she was walking through the GEM. Enjoy this view of the inaugurated GEM through the eyes of a proud Egyptian. Her comments have been unfiltered and unedited to allow you to feel the emotion she felt.
Nour Abouseif: The road leading to the GEM all Egyptian icons. Spans over 6km.
Nour Abouseif: International flags crowning the lampposts. Signifying welcoming all global citizens.
Nour Abouseif: Setting of the grand opening is still up. It’s 10 am and the GEM is super packed.
Nour Abouseif: Took 20 years to finalize. Says that also Khufu took 20 years to build. Spectacular how time repeats itself.
Nour Abouseif: Ramses was the first thing to get moved. Took 10 hours to move. 85 wheeled vehicle moved him. Did a replica first to check if the movement would be successful. Replica of it is now in mansoura. They moved it first and then started building the entire museum.
Nour Abouseif: His daughter. Name consists of two titles Sat nisu daughter of the king. Hemet nisu which was confusing as they didn’t know if it’s the daughter or wife but then related to what we say now in upper Egypt ست أبوها which is the term used for daddy’s girl.
Nour Abouseif: Gem has over 100k pieces, showcases 50k and has continued to alternate the pieces.
Nour Abouseif: Ancient excel sheet. Showing سجلات حربية. Showing everything happened during the war.
Nour Abouseif: Non Egyptian statues – double chin and features. Double chin in statues is a default. Egyptian statues are always perfect and symmetrical whereas Romans aren’t. Found 25 years via frank godoeu. Were found Abu Kir in Alex. Along with other prices. المدينة الغارقة hiracleon.
Nour Abouseif: Original founder was kamal Abouel saadat, غواص مصري. There are still many pieces under the sea. Why were these pieces there at the gem? Because Egyptian culture is based on the support of women to their men. Reason why they are right in front of of the grand stairs all about الرحلة الي الأبدية
Nour Abouseif: As visitors ascend the Grand Staircase, they pass through symbolic temple gates, reminiscent of the sacred entrances of ancient Egypt.
Each gate marks a spiritual threshold — moving from the physical world toward the eternal.
The concept of “بر عنخ” (Per Ankh) literally means “House of Life.”
In ancient Egypt, these were cultural and educational institutions — places where priests, scholars, and artists preserved wisdom, science, and community values.
The design of this space revives that philosophy: The Grand Egyptian Museum stands today as a modern “House of Life”, where knowledge, art, and heritage continue to inspire and educate — bridging ancient civilization with contemporary society.
Nour Abouseif: At the last stage of the Grand Staircase, visitors reach the tombs, marking the culmination of the journey to eternity.
Here, the architecture mirrors ancient beliefs — every life, no matter how powerful, ends in the embrace of eternity.
In pharaonic tradition, a holy funeral was essential — a sacred transition ensuring the soul’s safe passage to the afterlife.
The surrounding light, stone, and geometry evoke the eternal calm of the tombs, reminding visitors that immortality is achieved not by power, but by purpose.
Nour Abouseif: Each illuminated showcase represents a community that once flourished along the Nile, from Upper Egypt to the Delta.
Together, they form a living map of how early Egyptians built their world around the river — where every settlement depended on its flow for life, growth, and connection.
Above, the soft blue lighting symbolizes the eternal current of the Nile, flowing through Egypt’s past and present — a reminder that civilization itself was born from water, rhythm, and renewal.
Nour Abouseif: Ancient Egyptian barbecue.
الحاتي originally from ancient Egyptian حات which means meat.
Nour Abouseif: Primitive look 4500BC.
Comes from تل الفرخة in dakkahlya. By بعثة اطالية in 1978. First image f leader and his son.
Wood that is gold plated. Eyes from lazurde. Necklace is carlinien which is a gem stone and the rest of it is from ostrich egg shells all indicates are of a high position.
Nour Abouseif: In ancient times, Egypt was divided into two lands:
For centuries, the two regions were in constant struggle — until King Narmer (Mina) emerged as the unifier.
The name “Mina” — of Coptic origin, meaning “the founder” — reflects his legacy as the first ruler to unite Upper and Lower Egypt under one crown.
By wearing the Double Crown (التاج المزدوج), Narmer became the first pharaoh of a unified Egypt, marking the beginning of the First Dynasty and the birth of one of the world’s greatest civilizations.
Nour Abouseif: Among the highest positions in ancient Egypt was that of the scribe — the thinker, the historian, and the voice of civilization.
This statue, discovered in Hesbet el-Gemeiz (حسب الجميز), depicts a scribe with ancient Egyptian eyeliner, symbolizing clarity and alertness — a detail that connects to the Egyptian verb “مءا”, meaning to gaze or observe deeply (يبحلق).
The figure is covered in plaster, preserving the vibrant pigments that reveal the rich colors of ancient Egyptian art.
“The voice of the people will perish, but the voice of the scribe will last forever.”
A reminder that while empires fade, the written word endures — and it is through the scribes that Egypt still speaks today.
Nour Abouseif: False door – door that is not true only place in the tomb. Offerings to be placed. Just like we do now. Offerings for spirituality reason. انت المعبد و فيك يسكن الإله
Nour Abouseif: They loved music too/ not all serious also enjoyed leisure time.
Woke up at sunrise worked till afternoon and then leisure time followed by sleep: harmony to life.
Nour Abouseif: Thurmose II or amenhotep II start of the golden age. This kings original name is gehuti Mes which is modern day abdelhakim – son of wisdom. Ruled over 17 wars without losing a single one. First man to make zoo. First ruler who brought Egypt chickens.
Nour Abouseif: Queen Hatshepsut – reason tuhutmose II entered the army. And raised him to be a great warrior. She ruled for 22 years and had great achievements and was a great time for peace and money making for ancient Egyptian history
Nour Abouseif: Ekhtnaton – even art changes in that times. Large lips and almond eyes.
Nour Abouseif: Bamboon monkeys not for religion. But used them to divide the days as by nature they pee every hour and used them as an alarm. With sunrise they climb the trees and sun gaze as the sun rises and once the sun rises they scream in celebration
Nour Abouseif: 6 statues for sekhmet. Used the terms neter to refer to kings and queens. Which symbolized the nature of strengths for all rulers not by gender. Sekhmet was done using the face of a lioness and the lioness is the one that plans and executes
Nour Abouseif: I’m about to enter King Tut!
Drum roll
Nour Abouseif: At the highest point of the gem
Nour Abouseif: Can you feel the crowd
Nour Abouseif: Entering king tut hall
Nour Abouseif: Tut was and still is a trend
Nour Abouseif: In November 4, 1922, a young Egyptian boy named Hussein Abdelrasoul, while fetching water in the Valley of the Kings, stumbled upon what would become the greatest archaeological discovery in history — the tomb of King Tutankhamun (KV62).
When Howard Carter peered through the small opening into the sealed chamber and was asked what he saw, his reply became immortal:
“I see wonderful things.”
That moment ignited a global fascination — Egyptomania, and specifically, Tutmania. Tutankhamun became not just a pharaoh, but a phenomenon — inspiring art, fashion, films, and imagination around the world.
The Egyptian film “المومياء” (The Mummy), starring Shady Abdel Salam, later captured this sense of wonder — the timeless dialogue between the living and the dead, between discovery and destiny.
Standing here today, on the anniversary of that discovery, the story comes full circle.
The treasures once hidden in the Valley now live again in the Grand Egyptian Museum — proof that Egypt’s wonders were never lost, only waiting to be seen anew.
Nour Abouseif: The symbol and the bottom showcasing black kemet – yellow dishrit which is desert land and the white peaks of the mountains which are white in color on LXR
Part III of our Peru dispatch is more of a customary one, a visit with Kipi the robot, an active foundation project, and our largest grant to date. Before sharing more about this visit with Kipi and the next phase of work, I want to take a moment to explain how our foundation operates. It’s structured quite differently from most, built from the ground up with integrity, clear goals, and a strong sense of purpose.
Big Five has long been involved in community initiatives, dating back to the early days when we tried to convince safari travelers not to smoke on game drives (ironically, my father was a chain smoker at the time). But it wasn’t until 2005 that our foundation took formal shape, thanks to the guidance of someone I consider both a mentor and a brother, who was the ambassador to the foundation in the early days. Together, we set out with a simple, powerful goal: to provide small grants that hold recipients accountable, with multi-year commitments renewed only when progress reports are timely and transparent. The challenge, as with many well-intentioned projects, was avoiding the pitfalls of overstaying our welcome or inviting corruption through entitlement. To counter this, we designed a model that I’m deeply proud of that became central to Big Five’s certification as a B Corp.
Every new project begins with a one-year trial period funded entirely through our family endowment. This allows us to test the project’s stability and ensure that all agreed-upon guidelines are being upheld by both recipients and foundation trustees. Once a project proves successful, it must present a multi-year plan with the goal of becoming fully self-sustaining within eight years. That is our timeline for completion and why you’ll see projects constantly shifting with the Spirit of Big Five Foundation. Beyond eight years, partnerships risk shifting from collaboration to dependence, or even resentment which we want to avoid. At present, we have several active projects across Peru and one in Guatemala. One of our Peru initiatives is nearing its eighth year and will soon wind down, while new projects are being tested or entering evaluation phases in Egypt, Colombia, and Kenya.
Which brings us to our fruitful partnership with Walter and Kipi now in its fourth year. This initiative began in 2021, in the wake of the pandemic, and was introduced to me under memorable circumstances while cracking the back axle of a Toyota Hilux on a sand mound in the Illescas Peninsula of northern Peru. What began as an effort to educate children without internet access and protect them from trafficking has since evolved into a language preservation project aimed at safeguarding endangered indigenous dialects in the Amazon. The next phase focuses on manufacturing ten new “Kipi Mini” robots, which will transform the learning environment in nine schools across Huancavelica, Peru. This stage also includes the production of 300–500 full-color workbooks designed to accompany the robots’ lessons, enhancing both teaching and student engagement.
I was asked by someone why explaining the foundation and its work is so important. The answer is simple. This is how I honor my father. This notion of helping others was the central part of the legacy he left for us to follow.
Enjoy the video.
Have you ever wanted to visit a place so badly, only to have your plans continuously derailed by things beyond your control? That perfectly sums up my long pursuit of reaching Huaraz. Over the past decade, I’ve made several attempts to get there, and only there, bypassing Cusco and Machu Picchu (both incredible places I’ve visited multiple times) in search of a new challenge.
My goal has always been the Cordillera Blanca, affectionately called the “Patagonia of Peru”, a region I’ve dreamed of exploring for years. But fate had other plans: first a washed-out road stopped me before the 8-hour drive even began, then a car breakdown, then geopolitical issues. It felt like the universe was conspiring to keep me away. Finally, after returning from my 2024 Peru adventure, it seemed as though the stars aligned – a new flight from Lima to Huaraz was launched, running frequently and soon becoming daily. What was once a grueling 8-hour drive had transformed into a 1-hour, 5-minute flight, complete with breathtaking views reminiscent of the French Alps on approach.
That is where part II of our dispatch begins. To this point, we had explored the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, and Cusco with the infamous Cris, aka Jon Bon Jovi (did I mention to you, we all serenaded him with a Bon Jovi song when we first met in Cusco?). Now we were off to join professor, author, and anthropologist, Carlo in Huaraz, the foremost authority on the site of Chavin and the history that occurred up here, over 5000 years ago.
I am such a nerd, self admittedly. I think my middle name is Luis Skolnik (Gen Z, ask your parents who that is, trust me they know). So I made a list of every Egyptian King from the 1300 BCE to the common era, in order to place where this history takes place, much of it during a parallel time when Ramses II was ruling in Egypt. I did this, because much like some of the thought leaders in this space working at the most well-known museums, I am of the belief that these two empires were not living in isolation of each other, and that our theories of plate tectonics before the common era need to be revisited, since much of the history we learned is being rewritten by new discoveries regularly.
Once we place the time frames together, the eerie similarities in some of the architecture and rituals are too hard to ignore. Even the history at Tumshukaiko in Caraz and Chavin, had similarities to ancient India and the story of Shiva, that were just too strong to ignore. As humans, we are all connected in some way. My finance brain refuses to believe that, however my history and knowledge quests know that to be true, too many similarities and coincidences to ignore. That, my friends, is the center of my desire to visit the region of Ancash. Tie that in with authentic interactions with communities like Vicos, where we are among the first to be there, and hotels like Santa Cruz, entirely community run, with a heart bigger than the most luxurious of hotels, and you have a formula for the future of Peru.
Enjoy Part II of Peru Dispatch
It’s time for our annual dispatch from Peru, and this year’s adventure began with a dramatic start. Just as we landed, news broke that Peru’s sitting president had been impeached and removed from office, with the constitutional successor stepping in.
Now, before the headlines sound the alarm, it’s worth noting that this is actually the seventh president in six years. So, when my amazing group turned to me with raised eyebrows, I simply smiled and said, “Welcome to Peru!” Life carried on as usual, and unless you’re following local politics closely, you’d never know anything had happened.
From there, we made our way to the Sacred Valley, staying well hydrated to adjust to the altitude and preparing for our visit to the iconic Machu Picchu. If you are wondering why we tackled this so early in the trip, stay tuned for Part II and you’ll understand why.
Despite one traveler arriving late due to missed connections (and experiencing our signature WGS® service in action), we headed to the ruins as planned. A morning train took us to Aguas Calientes, followed by our private bus up the mountain, bypassing the usual two-hour line in true #bigfivin style.
Back in the Sacred Valley and onward to Cusco, we had a little surprise planned: an evening of cocktails and dinner at my favorite resto-bar in old town. It’s a hidden gem I discovered during the pandemic, now home to one of the top mixologists in Peru. While many of Peru’s culinary legends got their start in small, off-the-radar kitchens, it’s the cocktails here, and their unforgettable names, that truly set this place apart.
Check out this video to kick off our journey, and don’t miss Part II, where we venture so far off the beaten path, we became some of the very first visitors.
We started off the year sharing my father’s work, an alphabet he was working on at the time of his passing. At the end of 2024, we found his complete work and are releasing each letter throughout the year. This week, we share the next letter.
M – Mindfulness: A Journey Towards Inner Peace
In today’s fast-paced world, the pursuit of inner peace often feels like an elusive goal. Stress, anxiety, and constant distractions can leave us feeling overwhelmed and disconnected from our true selves. However, mindfulness offers a powerful tool to help navigate these challenges and cultivate a deeper sense of well-being.
What is Mindfulness?
Mindfulness is the practice of being fully present and engaged in the moment, aware of our thoughts, feelings, and sensations without judgment. It involves paying attention to our experiences as they unfold, rather than getting caught up in the past or worrying about the future. By adopting a state of active, open attention, mindfulness helps us to live more fully in the present.
At its core, mindfulness is about cultivating awareness. It means we don’t miss anything inside. It involves paying attention to our thoughts and feelings, in a non-reactive way. This heightened state of awareness allows us to step back from our habitual responses and gain a deeper understanding of our inner experiences. One of the most significant benefits of mindfulness is its ability to reduce stress. By focusing on the present moment, we can break the cycle of ruminative thinking that often fuels anxiety and stress.
Mindfulness also enhances emotional regulation. By observing our emotions without judgment, we can better understand and manage them. Moreover, mindfulness can enhance our relationships. By being fully present with others, we can listen more deeply and respond more empathetically. This presence fosters stronger connections and more meaningful interactions, which are essential components of healthy relationships.
In conclusion, mindfulness is a valuable practice that can significantly improve our mental, emotional, and physical well-being. By cultivating awareness and presence, we can navigate life’s challenges with greater ease and live more fully in each moment.
“The most precious gift we can offer anyone is our attention.
When mindfulness embraces those, we love, they will bloom like flowers.” – Thich Nhat Hanh
Be present and savor each moment.
Stay Tuned for Letter N
This week, we had a post ready to go, talking about the movements of primates in Uganda, and the process required to habituate gorillas and chimpanzees, which in some cases was over 3 years. For some reason, I had writers block, which happens from time to time. Then it happened, the news of Dr. Jane Goodall’s passing broke. So, this post is dedicated to the life, legacy, and memory of Dr Goodall.
As a teen, I had the honor of meeting her and have spent so many years learning from her work. In fact, it was while I was a sophomore at the University of Arizona, contemplating a shift from Mechanical Engineering to International Policy, when an interview of her was playing on the television in our dormitory lobby as I was walking back from my class on genocide in history.
I was mesmerized as it was less than 10 years before, that Dr Goodall was telling us about the chimpanzee war in Gombe, something according to her, shattered her hope that this trait was isolated to humans. As she says in this interview, which aired in 1997, the behavior broke her heart.
Back in 1974, Dr Goodall noticed a fracture in the community with part moving to the south. That family was named Kahama. During the years leading up to 1978, all the primates in Kahama were killed, which ended the existence of the Kahama community. The original community, named Kasakela, which were the victorious survivors then began to expand their territory before being pushed back. Dr Goodall, the amazing storyteller, talked about how she saw this happening in Gombe Stream and even how the fracture in Kasakela occurred.
In February of this year, I was at the chimp sanctuary at Ol Pejeta in Kenya, which, for a long period, was a partnership between the conservancy, Kenya Wildlife Service, and the Jane Goodall Institute. I was sharing the story of coming up here as a child with my father, and Dr Goodall’s interviews about the effect of PTSD and violent tendencies on chimpanzees in abusive situations or in unsuitable captivity with the local rangers, one of whom remembered me as his father was the ranger when I visited as a child. Dr Goodall did a good amount of research in the 80s on the long-term effects of trauma to chimpanzees and how it affects everything from the mood, balance, and general tendencies. It was on full display at the sanctuary in Ol Pejeta which the rescued chimps, removed from traumatic situations (including cigarette burns). I remember thinking in February, how Dr Goodall’s conclusions were more correct today than ever.
My biggest worry has always been that there were not enough people to carry her work forward. Sure, there are researchers and field workers, however she had the heart of an army, and it was visible to me as a child meeting her, and every lecture she gave in public settings and in closed settings.
I join the many ready to carry your mantle professor.
We started off the year sharing my father’s work, an alphabet he was working on at the time of his passing. At the end of 2024, we found his complete work and are releasing each letter throughout the year. This week, we share the next letter.
L – Life: Life is what you make it.
Life is fleeting, slipping away with incredible speed as we race through space at nineteen miles per second. Our most valuable asset today is life itself, the one thing we can truly call our own.
Life is both difficult and easy. It is our greed and ego that make it hard. This is a profound truth: once we truly see and accept it, we transcend it. When we understand and accept that life is difficult, it no longer feels difficult. Acceptance dissolves the struggle.
Life is simple. But our desires and unending wants make it complex.
Life is a fleeting dance, a delicate tapestry of moments that never return the same way. Regret is a heavy burden, weighing down the soul with missed opportunities and unsaid words. So, let’s not postpone anything. Seize each moment as it comes, with open hearts and outstretched arms, ready to embrace the possibilities before us. In the end, our regrets will not be about what we did, but about what we didn’t do—the words left unsaid, the dreams left unfulfilled.
Life is not always the way we want it to be. It is unpredictable and it continues to place problems as well as opportunities on our path, but it is always our choice to feel as a victim or to take control in every situation and learn with every step we take. In life, don’t leave anything for later—the coffee gets cold, interest fades, day turns into night, we grow up, we grow old, and life goes by. Later, we might regret not doing something when we had the chance.
Do what we are good at and love to do. Live one day at a time, and finally, trust a higher power or Universal Law to help us in our life journey and give us some support along the way. The choice is ours how we live our lives.
Three things in Life – our health, our mission, and the people we love. That’s it.
Life is nothing but the expansion of love. We must try to love all of humanity with the inner awareness, consciousness, and conviction that inside each individual is the living presence of God. –Sri Chinmoy
Life is a balance of holding on and letting go. – Rumi
Stay Tuned for Letter M
