“Sam led three successful expeditions as Chief Leader under my tenure as CEO at the British Exploring Society. His meticulous planning and preparation ensured that the expeditions, in particularly remote parts of the globe, all ran smoothly. But it is, perhaps, his unique leadership style that merits recognition. I know of few people who lead with such ease and competence in extremely remote and challenging conditions. His expertise is based upon a lifetime of experiences that few could match.”

Lt Gen Peter Pearson CB, CBE - CEO British Exploring Society

“I challenge someone to find a more experienced desert guide”

Dave Lucas - The Expedition Consultancy

“The Chief Leader for this year is Sam McConnell. Not only was he deputy chief leader last year but has worked in the past in Namibia as a guide for ten years and has vast wider experience in other desert locations. He is a personal friend who I have run schools expeditions within the past. I can say without any exaggeration that he is the best expedition leader I have ever come across and I would trust without hesitation the safety of my children, and I have in the past in the Sinai desert, to his care. He is the supreme professional in desert expeditions and is a good chap to boot and popular with young people”.

Dr Steve Lloyd – British Exploring Society

“Sam is a real character who has led numerous expeditions across Africa, the desert and challenging paces across the world. Passionate about what he does, he will ensure you are well prepared and looked after on any of his expeditions and be prepared to fee a spirit of adventure.”

Fiona Jeffery OBE - Member at UN World Committee for Tourism Ethics

“I have known Sam for many years and we have worked together in various capacities, on Desert Expedition Development. Sam is intelligent, practical-minded, patient and generous in his skills and knowledge-sharing. He is highly professional with strong leadership skills, and understands the value of a collaborative approach in bringing out the best in others, especially when they are struggling with something new. His relaxed and friendly style makes him very approachable and provides a friendly environment for learning and growth.”

Kevin Sidford - Director at the British Association of International Mountain Leaders

"I have had the pleasure of working with Sam over a number of years, a very experienced leader who has an understanding of the environment he works in and always involves the locals in all aspects of his desert trips giving a true cultural experience to the participants.”

Steven Oliver - Operation Wallacea