David Laurent Mahwaya

David Laurent Mahwaya is a Tanzanian entrepreneur and tourism expert, best known as the founder of Classic Wild Escapes, a company specializing in unique travel experiences across Tanzania and East Africa.

David’s early life was shaped by his parents’ dedication to public service—his father was a technician, and his mother was a teacher. He began his education at Carmel Convent Primary School in 1999, completing his studies in 2007. He pursued secondary education at several schools, including St. Rufinos & Rinaldos Secondary School and Kisarawe Junior Seminary in Tanzania, followed by Eagles Nest Secondary School in Kampala and Jovens High School in Entebbe, Uganda. During high school, David nurtured a passion for rap music, often writing lyrics and participating in rap battles. He was also an active basketball player, competing with the Eagles Nest team, one of Uganda’s top high school teams.

David’s journey into tourism began in 2013, when he met two Danish doctors, Sofie Smedegaard Skov and Lise Gehrt Cardel, during their internship in Kigoma. They wanted to visit Gombe National Park to trek chimpanzees but lacked local connections. David organized the trip for them, marking his first experience in the tourism industry and sparking a deep passion for creating memorable travel experiences.

In 2014, David enrolled at the Tanzania Institute of Accountancy, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing and Public Relations. While at university, he continued organizing trips to Tanzania’s national parks, such as Mikumi and Selous, for his fellow students. After graduating, he turned his passion into a profession by founding Classic Wild Escapes. His company has since grown into a trusted provider of tailored safaris and tours, offering clients unforgettable adventures in Tanzania and beyond.

David’s entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to showcasing Tanzania’s natural beauty have made him a respected figure in the tourism industry.