Staff Reporter
PETER Philander, a tour guide from Etosha National Park, was awarded in Gondwana’s Tourism Heroes campaign after his quick thinking saved a tourist from possible blindness and permanent eye damage following a snake attack.
While travelling through Namibia, a tourist and her partner encountered a startling incident one evening. While staying at a lodge near the Etosha National Park, she had a terrifying encounter with a spitting cobra while using the bathroom.
The snake spat in her eyes, and the Tour Guide, Peter Philander, advised her to wash her eyes with tap water. Thanks to Philander’s quick actions, she received immediate assistance and was rushed to the hospital in Outjo. Philander ensured they received proper medical attention and continued to support them throughout the ordeal, even arranging for specialist care with an ophthalmologist to prevent permanent damage to her eyes. The specialist advised that the water rinsing saved her eyes.
According to Gondwana Namibia, throughout the rest of their trip, Philander’s prudence and quick reactions were evident.
The Tourism Heroes Campaign encourages Namibians to nominate individuals or organizations who have truly made a difference in tourism. Nominations can be forwarded via email at tourismheroes@gcnam.com.
