John Gitiri was born  and raised in Kinangop Plateau an area widely  known for the endemic  Sharpe’s Longclaw. He grew up birding and knew from the young age that birding and travel will factor heavily in his future, after his high school education he enrolled for a course in Tour guiding the course nurtured John’s birding curiosity into a full-birding guide. He interned and worked  at National Museums of Kenya (Ornithology Department)  where he honed his birding skills.

John  is now a leading bird, wildlife, photography guide, he has worked for  several birding tour companies leading birding safaris in Kenya and beyond. He has a sharp eye and an exceptional ear for bird sounds, and he’s known for his calm, respectful demeanor in the field, always fostering a positive atmosphere with a touch of humor.
He  is a trained bird ringer  and over the years he been contributing to citizen science. He likes mentoring upcoming birders/guides through training and advisories, he enjoys conducting discoveries expeditions as well driving 4*4 safari vehicles. He is an active member of Nature Kenya, Friends of Kinangop Plateau  and Ondiri wetlands conservation group.