Retreat Leaders

Malvina is the founder of Lala Palm Safari Co. She is an integrative clinical psychologist and author. She has over 20 years wellness experience and has brought this to the safari world. Malvina has a PhD in clinical psychology and when she is not on safari she is consulting in her integrative clinical psychology practice. Malvina is a trained naturalist, with a FGASA nature guide qualification, and wildlife photographer. She is passionate about crafting safaris that foster a reconnection to the natural world. She follows a spirit of ecopsychology, increasingly deepening her understanding of connection between humans and nature. Malvina’s passion is connecting people with a love of travel, adventure, nature and optimizing well-being through wellness-infused wildlife experiences. She guides safaris across the globe, focussing mainly on Africa and India.

Chris Renshaw is a conservationist, safari guide and award-winning wildlife photographer with 20 years working in Africa’s most iconic wilderness areas. He holds an MSc in Zoology, with a research focus on river ecosystems in Kruger National Park. He has featured in wildlife documentaries for Nat Geo Wild and Discovery Channel, and his photography has been published internationally. He is also the founder of Conserv Earth, a Non-Profit dedicated to sustainable tourism and community-based conservation, connecting travellers with tangible ways to contribute to Africa’s environmental future. Chris combines scientific insight with a deep respect for nature to guide immersive, safaris that go beyond wildlife viewing - fostering a deeper understanding of ecosystems, conservation challenges, and local cultures. Chris partners with Lala Palm Safari Co. to run conservation group safari retreats.

Kyle Ray is a Kenyan snake expert, FGASA safari guide and curator of the Watamu Snake Farm, where he leads snake safaris and educational experiences that help visitors learn about reptiles and their roles in nature. Born and raised in Nairobi, his fascination with snakes began in childhood and led him to handle venomous species and train under mentors, eventually taking over the snake farm. He speaks at international venom-and-snakebite events, conducts community awareness and training sessions, and supports conservation work across Kenya. Kyle also helps with snake relocations. He guides curiosity safaris at Lala Palm Safari Co.

Narissa has a Masters in Development Practice, the MDP program from UC Berkeley. She is the co-founder of Conscious Kenya, an environmentalist (Save Lake Turkana founder and Water to Dust documentary producer), and international sound healing artist. She is a certified Hatha-yoga, pranayama and meditation instructor, practising sound-healing with Tibetan singing bowls, Indian bansuri flute and gong. Her passions centre on wellness, nature connections and empowering others through creative and holistic practices. Narissa guides wellness safaris at Lala Palm Safari Co.

BK Manowe is an experienced Botswana based guide. He has worked at various prestigious lodges and is currently guiding for Great Plains Conservation, based dominantly at Duba Plains. You can expect a laugh a minute with this wonderful character. BK guides curiosity based safaris with a strong dose of adventure at Lala Palm Safari Co.