 Pieter du Plessis has more than 25 years experience in the tourism industry, particularly in group tours. Pieter arrived in the tourism industry with a background in nature conservation. The first white person in South Africa that took a group of youths from various communities on a environmental educational programme. This was a landmark occasion in the early 1970's in that the group from all cultural backgrounds were able to enjoy nature together despite the strict segregation laws at the time.
While serving in a major conservation organisation Pieter became involved in a research programme that was initiated by Sir Edmond Hillary on soil erosion and the deserts of Africa. Papers authored by Pieter on the Karoo and the Kalahari were published locally, with articles appearing overseas. This research work brought him into contact with the forgotten peoples of South Africa - the Khoisan, San (Bushmen), Khoikhoi (Hottentot) and the Griqua peoples. Regarded today as an expert on the Khoisan peoples especially the Griqua. One of the first National tour guides of South Africa and the first to be awarded as honorary game warden with the KwaZulu-Natal Nature Conservation Services, formerly the Natal Parks Board. Pieter is also a member of the South African Botanical Society, takes a keen interest in the indigenous flora of South Africa. His special botanical tours are well known and enjoyed by those privileged enough to have toured with him. Pieter is a very keen amateur anthropologist plus his other hobbies include astronomy and classical music, Sibelius being his favourite composer. Pieter conducts EarthFoot's "The Joy of Nature" experience in South Africa. |