The Bergzicht Team
Passion, Expertise, and Dedication Behind Every Unforgettable Safari Experience
.jpg)
Hannes du Plessis
The Heart of Bergzicht Game Lodge
As the owner of Bergzicht Game Lodge, Hannes du Plessis brings decades of expertise, passion, and dedication to every aspect of your hunting safari. With Bergzicht as part of his family’s legacy since 1980, Hannes has cultivated a world-class hunting experience rooted in tradition and excellence.
A respected leader in the Namibian hunting community, Hannes serves as the Vice-President of the Namibian Professional Hunters Association (NAPHA) and is a proud member of Safari Club International. His contributions to wildlife conservation and sustainable hunting practices are further reflected in his tenure as President of Wildlife Ranching Namibia from 2019 to 2023, where he has been an active member since 2014. As a master measurer of African game, Hannes’ expertise ensures that every trophy is measured with precision and care.
Hannes’ commitment to ethical hunting is evident in every safari he leads. With a steadfast adherence to the sportsman’s dictum of fair chase, he ensures each hunt is both respectful and rewarding. His deep knowledge of Namibia’s diverse game allows him to tailor your safari to your specific goals, guiding you to success and creating memories that will last a lifetime.
At Bergzicht, Hannes isn’t just a professional hunter—he’s the cornerstone of an exceptional experience, blending his unmatched skills with a personal dedication to making every guest’s journey extraordinary.
.jpg)
Experience it Yourself
Adventure, Wildlife, Heritage
.jpg)
Stephan Joubert
Bergzicht’s Hunting Expert and Storyteller
Steph Joubert is the ultimate guide to making your African safari unforgettable. As a qualified Professional Hunter and Big Game Professional Hunter, he ensures not only exceptional trophies but an enriching experience that stays with you long after you leave Namibia. His deep knowledge of the Namibian wilderness—from its diverse birdlife to its unique grasses and scrub—turns every outing into an educational and exciting adventure.
Born in South Africa, Steph moved to the United Kingdom at the age of nine, where he spent 14 formative years. His love for the outdoors eventually brought him to Namibia to pursue his passions for farming, hunting, and fishing. With hunting experience spanning continents, including England and New Zealand, Steph brings a wealth of expertise and adaptability to every hunting safari.
A day in the veld with Steph is never dull. Known for his quick wit, mischievous antics, and love of practical jokes, he keeps spirits high and laughter flowing. Even his wife has coined the phrase “Is this a Steph-story?” to tease out the truth behind his colorful tales.
Steph’s talents extend beyond the hunt. He’s the creative force behind Bergzicht’s renowned butchery products and proudly holds the title of Braai MasterChef. With a knack for experimenting with new recipes and a love for outdoor cooking, he’s always ready to delight guests with his culinary flair.
Whether he’s guiding you through the veld, teaching you about Namibia’s natural wonders, or serving up a mouthwatering meal, Steph’s goal is simple: to ensure you have the time of your life at Bergzicht. His infectious humor and genuine warmth make every moment with him a cherished memory.
.jpg)
Marie-Louse du Plessis Joubert
The Backbone of Bergzicht
Marie-Louise du Plessis Joubert brings a unique blend of precision, dedication, and heartfelt passion to Bergzicht Game Lodge. Having grown up on the farm, her deep connection to the land is paired with her professional expertise in finance and operations, creating a seamless balance between passion and business.
Before fully immersing herself in the family enterprise, Marie-Louise honed her skills in the tax department at Ernst & Young Namibia. Her affinity for numbers and mastery of Excel have made her an invaluable asset to Bergzicht since she joined the team full-time in 2021. Now, she works closely with her father, Hannes, managing both the front-facing guest experience and the behind-the-scenes intricacies of running a world-class hunting lodge.
Much of her time is dedicated to overseeing the butchery’s day-to-day operations, ensuring that every product meets Bergzicht’s high standards of quality. Her quiet strength and introverted nature make her a natural at working behind the scenes, where her organizational skills and attention to detail shine. Despite her preference for staying out of the spotlight, Marie-Louise’s impact on the lodge’s success is undeniable.
When she’s not managing the multifaceted operations of Bergzicht, Marie-Louise enjoys recharging with a good movie or diving into her Kindle. Her calm and steady approach is a grounding force within the family, helping to maintain the perfect balance between Bergzicht’s rich heritage and its bright future.
Marie-Louise’s unique combination of a childhood spent on the farm and a background in accounting gives her a rare perspective. She navigates the complex demands of the business with an intuitive understanding of both its history and its potential, ensuring that Bergzicht remains not only a family legacy but also a beacon of excellence for all who visit.
.jpg)
Geraldine du Plessis
The Matriarch of Bergzicht
Geraldine du Plessis is the heart and soul of Bergzicht’s warm and inviting atmosphere. From the moment you step into the lodge, the cozy, elegant ambiance is a reflection of her impeccable taste and attention to detail. Her talent for décor is evident in every corner, from the beautifully styled guest rooms to the stunning table settings that elevate each meal into a memorable occasion.
Though Geraldine now delegates much of the cooking, her creative touch remains the essence of the delicious, five-star meals you’ll enjoy during your stay. Her expertise extends far beyond the kitchen—she’s the visionary behind Bergzicht’s lush gardens and the seamless behind-the-scenes operations that keep every safari running smoothly.
As a dynamic woman with her own successful business in Windhoek, Geraldine masterfully balances her entrepreneurial pursuits with her contributions to Bergzicht Game Lodge. Known affectionately by Hannes as "the professional shopper," she’ll help you select the perfect souvenirs to take home, ensuring your Namibian adventure is unforgettable.
In her quieter moments, Geraldine finds joy in life’s simple pleasures: a glass of wine, her crochet projects, and a bag of Nik-Naks. Her passion, creativity, and dedication are central to the Bergzicht experience, making every guest feel right at home.
Heinz and Caren Winckler
The Duo Bridging City and Farm Life
Caren Winckler and her husband Heinz form a remarkable team, balancing their vibrant city life in Windhoek with deep family roots at Bergzicht Game Lodge. Together, they share their home with Pondo, a spirited Hungarian Vizsla who rules their hearts and often their household, with his larger-than-life personality.
Caren grew up on the family farm, creating lifelong memories surrounded by the beauty of the Namibian landscape. Weekends and holidays were filled with laughter, exploration, and the magic of farm life, experiences that continue to inspire her today. With a background in digital marketing from Stellenbosch, Caren’s creative talents shine across her multiple endeavors. She skillfully manages Airbnbs in Windhoek and at Dunes Lodge, combining her knack for hospitality with her love for creating warm, welcoming spaces.
Heinz, an accomplished civil & structural engineer, is Caren’s steadfast partner in life and adventures. While his weekdays are filled with engineering projects, weekends often see him switching gears to lend his expertise at Bergzicht. Whether advising on structural designs, surveying the land, or mapping GPS points for new fencing, Heinz steps into his “farm engineer” role with dedication and precision, contributing to the ongoing development and success of the family operation.
Together, Heinz and Caren embody the perfect balance of city sophistication and farm-rooted passion. They share a love for the outdoors, their family, and the traditions that make Bergzicht Game Lodge a cherished legacy. Whether in Windhoek or on the farm, this dynamic duo brings creativity, expertise, and heartfelt connection to everything they do.
.jpg)
The Bergzicht Dream Team
Every Detail Matters
At Bergzicht, we pride ourselves on the dedication and professionalism of our incredible team. This "dream team" consists of skilled trackers, expert skinners, attentive lodge personnel, and our ever-reliable laundry lady. Every team member plays a vital role in ensuring your stay at Bergzicht is seamless and unforgettable.
Our laundry lady guarantees your clothes are returned to your room fresh, neatly ironed, and ready by the end of each day. Meanwhile, our chef will delight your taste buds with delicious, expertly prepared meals at every sitting.
The skinners handle your trophies and skins with the utmost care and professionalism, ensuring they are meticulously treated and prepared for the taxidermist. Our lodge staff keep your room spotless, replacing bedding and towels regularly, while also creating beautifully set tables for your dining experiences. Outside, they maintain our gardens to perfection year-round.
In the hunting veld, our skilled trackers are invaluable. They expertly spot animals and assist with tracking, especially when pursuing wounded game.
Our team is not only highly skilled but also exceptionally friendly. They are committed to making your stay at Bergzicht truly memorable. Most of our staff members have been with us for over ten years, with some proudly serving for more than 20 years!