Highly commended

Ashraf Masoud

Where he guides: Egypt Booked through: AHI Travel (ahitravel.com) and Abercrombie & Kent (abercrombiekent.co.uk) Ashraf loves leading groups around his native Egypt; he has even guided a few star names, including actor Hugh Jackman. One person who travelled with him said: “We not only learned about Egypt’s ancient splendours but also the complexities of its culture – and came away with a deeper appreciation of this interesting country.”

Sara Bull

Where she guides: Worldwide Booked through: Exodus Travels (exodus.co.uk) Having begun her career 23 years ago with the Outward Bound Trust and The Prince’s Trust, Sara is now adept at leading all kinds of tours, from snowshoeing trips in the Dolomites to K2 Base Camp treks. She loves building local relationships, and she also fundraises for many charities, including doing a 1,000km challenge run.

Phauk Kimhoun

Where he guides: South-east Asia Booked through: G Adventures (gadventures.com) A self-confessed history buff, Phauk is passionate about sharing cultures, beliefs, food and, in his own words, “Being part of something much bigger than me”. He goes above and beyond in his role, and loves introducing travellers to local projects that give back to the communities that they visit.

Gabo Candal

Where he guides: Europe Booked through: G Adventures (gadventures.com) Gabo’s colourful career has included being a theatre actor, rock ’n’ roll band manager and even a master of reiki. In 2010, he spent a year working in New Zealand before taking in 87 countries in a two-year epic adventure. He joined G Adventures in 2014 and hasn’t looked back, sharing his infectious passion for travel with everyone who roams with him.