YOUR GUIDES

Languages: English, Japanese, Indonesian, Sikkanese
Birthplace: the highland village of Gehak in Sikka district, Flores
Background: Co-founder of Kampung Expeditions, Marsel is a graduate of the University of Hasanuddin, Makassar. Marsel is renowned locally as one of Sulawesi's most experienced and skilled guides, and has established a strong following of loyal clients who enjoy his engaging style and accommodating nature. Marsel’s flexibility and knowledge has equipped him for dealing with almost anything and anyone – from media crews to academic researchers, as well as corporate delegations and intrepid travellers.

Languages: English, Japanese, Indonesian, Makassarese
Birthplace: the highlands of Marino, near Makassar.
Background: Sally graduated as an engineer from the University of Muslim Indonesia, Makassar, then lived and worked in Japan for several years, where he mastered Japanese. With more than 15 years’ experience, Sally’s local knowledge and networks bring great depth to his tours. His love of people and sense of humour make him a great entertainer, as well as a strong leader.

Languages: English, Indonesian, Bugis
Birthplace: Luwu, Sulawesi
Background: Bur has extensive experience as a travel guide, and has arranged many corporate and government field trips, and investigative tours. Bur has been dubbed the ‘walking dictionary’ by other guides because he is an expert on Sulawesi history, particularly the history of Bugis/Makassar. Happy and polite, Bur’s warm personality attracts repeat clients from the USA, the Netherlands and South Africa.

Languages: English, Indonesian, Toraja
Birthplace: the highlands of Tana Toraja, Sulawesi
Background: An expert on Torajan culture, Otto’s enthusiasm for sharing local culture and his polite nature make him popular with our clients. Otto is also a keen traditional bamboo flute player and teacher.

Languages: English, Japanese, Indonesian, Makassarese
Birthplace: Japan
Background: Co-founder of Kampung Expeditions and the company’s tour advisor, Yoshi has lived in Indonesia and Canada, and travels regularly from his Australian base. A graduate of the University of Melbourne with a Master of Anthropology and Monash University with a Master of Tourism, Yoshi has extensive experience working in the tourism industry in Indonesia, Japan and Australia. He has also worked as a contributing author with Lonely Planet for over a decade. His publications include the Japanese Phrasebook, the award-winning World Food Japan, the world map series and guidebooks to Japan and Tokyo.

(Professional driver)

Languages: self-taught English and Japanese, Indonesian, Sikkanese
Birthplace: the village of Bole in Sikka district, Flores
Background: Ansel is a veteran driver who has worked for Kampung Expeditions right from the start. Very polite and reliable, Ansel knows the streets of South Sulawesi like his own backyard.