08 December 2024

When planning a safari, it can be overwhelming to decide where to go. That’s where I come in! My passion lies in crafting personalized safari experiences that go beyond your expectations, ensuring your journey is as magical and memorable as Africa itself. Whether it’s your first time on safari or your tenth, let me guide you in choosing the perfect destination, style, and experiences to create a trip that exceeds your wildest dreams. Here’s how we can narrow it down: 1) Is This Your First Safari? If this is your first time exploring Africa’s wildlife, you’ll likely want to focus on ticking off iconic animals like the Big Five. South Africa’s Kruger region is a fantastic starting point, offering reliable game sightings, luxurious lodges, and expert-guided safaris. Combine your wildlife adventure with a visit to Cape Town, the scenic Winelands, or the stunning Victoria Falls for a well-rounded holiday. 2) Are You a Seasoned Safari Enthusiast? If you’ve already fallen in love with Africa and are planning your next adventure, Namibia should be on your list. Imagine climbing dramatic sand dunes, spotting desert-adapted wildlife, and sleeping under a star-studded sky. From the eerie beauty of the Skeleton Coast to the rich wildlife of Etosha National Park, Namibia’s landscapes promise an unforgettable experience. 3) Are You Traveling with Children? For families, Kenya and South Africa offer the best child-friendly safari options. Many lodges feature family rooms and tailored activities for kids, like learning about local culture and conservation. These experiences not only ensure a fun-filled holiday but can spark a lifelong love for nature in your little explorers. 4) Do You Have a Set Travel Timeframe? Timing is everything when it comes to safaris. The best destination often depends on the time of year you’re traveling: January–March: South Africa or Tanzania’s Serengeti (great for the calving season). March–May: South Africa, Botswana, or Namibia. May–September: Kenya, Tanzania, Botswana, Zambia, Rwanda, or Uganda. September–December: South Africa or Kenya. With my expertise, I can help you align your travel dates with the most spectacular wildlife events. 5) Are You Dreaming of a Specific Experience? Maybe you’ve been inspired by a wildlife documentary or a friend’s story. From the heart-pounding drama of the Great Migration in Tanzania and Kenya to walking safaris in Zambia or Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda, Africa offers a diversity of unforgettable experiences. Popular requests include: The Great Migration: Tanzania and Kenya Gorilla Trekking: Rwanda and Uganda Walking Safaris: Zambia Sleeping Under the Stars: Namibia or Zambia Canoeing Adventures: Zimbabwe, Zambia, or Botswana Horse Riding Safaris: Kenya Let’s Plan Your Perfect Safari! Whether it’s your first safari or your tenth, my goal is to make your trip uniquely yours. By understanding your dreams, travel preferences, and timing, I’ll help craft an itinerary that meets your needs, exceeds your expectations, and creates memories you’ll cherish forever. Are you ready to take the first step toward your dream safari? Reach out to me today to start planning your personalized adventure!

19 November 2024

Taking a 10-year-old on safari is an unforgettable adventure! This is the kind of bucket list trip that will forever stay with any child and throughout their lives. Including children on what was once an adult-only excursion could now not be easier. With tailor-made itineraries, the whole family can be catered for, amazed and sure to fall in love with safari holidays in one of the most beautiful locations on earth. As a South African with a lifetime of safari and travel experience, I thought I’d share my top ten tips to getting it right and ensuring it's the safe, fun and wonder-inducing experience of your heart’s desire: 1. Choose a family-friendly safari destination Some countries, like South Africa, Kenya, and Tanzania, offer lodges and camps specifically designed for families with young children. The hand-picked lodges that I work with boast an array of amazing opportunities for children to enjoy the thrill that comes with life in the bush. 2. Plan Age-Appropriate Safari Activities For a 10-year-old, I would recommend you choose options like game drives over walking safaris. Many lodges can also offer shorter, kid-friendly game drives, bushcraft workshops, or junior ranger programmes to keep children engaged with their incredible surroundings. 3. Pack a camera, binoculars or even a Go-Pro Giving your child their own binoculars or camera will allow them to fully participate in documenting their own wildlife adventure. They will be able to capture incredible moments from their own perspective. Making memories doesn’t get any better than this. 4. Mix it up Over and above your safari stay, I’d advise you factor in time for Cape Town. Do not underestimate the excitement in the beauty of the magnificent Table Mountain, viewing penguins at Boulders Beach or watching baboons at the Cape Point Nature reserve. But let’s not forget about the adults in the family. South Africa has just been awarded the ‘best culinary destination in Africa’ at the World Culinary awards. And for those with a thirst for further adventure, there is always the breathtaking Garden Route towns of Plettenberg Bay, Knysna or even Oodtshoorn to visit. 5. Go Private You could consider a Private Family Game Drive. In general I’d advise arranging at least a private vehicle to give you more control over your schedule to let your child ask questions freely, and take breaks when needed. Car hire is ideal for Cape Town and especially if you are heading further down the Garden Route. Overwhelmed by driving abroad? Don’t fear – Uber works very well in Cape Town. 6. Keep a Safari journal Encourage your child to draw, record, photograph what they see so they can show family and friends when they get home from the trip of a lifetime. Many lodges will provide children with a species checklist which they can complete on each activity. 7. Prepare for the conditions Although this is Africa, It’s not always hot. It can be cold in the evenings especially between June and September when you will certainly need at least a hat and fleece for game drives. Alternatively if you choose a summer safari then a lodge with a pool or access to the beach is vital. 8. Listen to your guide Safaris are magical because they put you in the heart of the wilderness, but it’s essential to know that that includes a certain level of risk. The guides and staff at each safari lodge will brief you about safety and it’s important to follow their guidance. 9. Did I mention the wonder of Cape Town? The Two Oceans Aquarium is the kind of conservation-based marine experience the whole family can devour. Meanwhile older kids can try sand boarding or even horse riding on the beach. And the Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden hosts open air music concerts. 10. Be Flexible Kids may have shorter attention spans so be prepared to leave a game drive early or to adjust plans for an impromptu rest day. You will never regret prioritising your child’s comfort. Bonus Tip: Some safaris are within Malaria-free reserves, but if you are happy to take anti-malarial medication, then this opens up even more options for your incredible trip to Africa.

20 January 2020

With a rich history, incredible scenery, iconic wildlife and friendly locals South Africa holds the potential to create some once in a lifetime memories for your family this year. As a born and bred South African I have put together what I think are the top 5 reasons to leave behind the cold British weather in favour of an African adventure. 1) The Scenery Table Mountain is of course the iconic landmark known across the globe and is a must see, but there is so much more. How about a trip to the Cape Point Nature reserve for stunning wild beaches and elevated views of the ocean below. During the spring the West Coast National Park comes alive with incredible flowers creating a tapestry of colour and life. Further inland the Panorama Route would take you to the Blyde River Canyon – the third largest canyon in the world with a host of beautiful waterfalls to enjoy. Did I hear you say road trip? 2) Food South Africa is home to some incredible restaurants – many of them multi award winning. Whether you enjoy a good steak, a huge seafood platter or a tasting menu to interest even the pickiest of eaters there is something for everyone. My personal favourites are The Pot Luck club in Cape Town and Harbour House in Kalk Bay – best enjoyed with a glass of wine while watching the waves as the sun sets. Yes it really is that romantic! 3) Value For Money For those of us travelling on the Great British Pound, South Africa is incredible value for money. Activities and meals are a fraction of their equivalent in the UK. An outstanding 3 course meal in one of the top restaurants in Cape Town would cost in the region of £60 per person including wine. For my favourite cocktail at La Parada – an Endless Summer you would be paying around £4 and only £2 for a local beer. What more do you need? 4) Wildlife South Africa is a haven for wildlife – the incredible Greater Kruger National Park offers big 5 sightings with expert guides and trackers and is an easy flight away from Johannesburg or Cape Town; there is no excuse to miss out. 3 nights on safari would offer you the wildlife of your dreams, cultural interaction, amazing food, possibly spa treatments and so much more. If adventure is in your heart – this is the trip for you. If you prefer to be in a Malaria free reserve and are travelling with small children; there are some great options that will satisfy even the smallest animal tracker in your family. If you are more interested in ocean life, you can head to the coastal town of Hermanus for some of the best land-based whale watching in the world or to Gansbaai for shark cage diving. There truly is something for everyone. 5) Its easy If your life is anything like mine your life is busy – you juggle kids, school lifts, after school activities, dog walks, work, gym, bills, friends and extended family. You need a holiday that is tailor made to take care of you every step of the way. You can fly direct to South Africa every day of the week, the domestic flights between destinations are easy and on average only 2 hours long. You can even self-drive between destinations if you like the feel of the open road. By using me, your Travel Counsellor you will have every detail taken care of – flights, transfers, accommodation, game drives, activities and restaurant reservations. The only responsibility you have is to enjoy every minute and send me some pictures of my home town. Above are some photos I have taken through the years on my various South African adventures