Safari

You can have more than one obsession…

As documented elsewhere on this site, I do have a deep and abiding love for France and all things French. BUT. People have layers, and I fell in love with the idea of an African safari well before I learned about the glories of France. 

As a mere child, my parents went on their own bucket list safari vacation and left me at summer camp. As a consolation prize, they gifted me a Playmobil set that was “safari” themed, which I played with ENDLESSLY. 

National Geographic plays (and has long played) on repeat on my tv.

When I had the chance to join my dear friend and native Zimbabwean – Sandy Salle- on a trip for advisors she organized to Cape Town and her home country back in 2019, I was the first in line with my credit card… and, well – the rest is history. 

That first trip brought many tears of joy, squeals of delight, and gasps of wonder – and it honestly never gets old. Each trip unveils some new aspect of our world in unexpected ways. From the otherworldly landscapes of Namibia … to the joyful children of Uganda … to the fascinating cultural mix of Cape Town, to, yes, the majesty of the wildlife. 

Of COURSE you go on safari for the animals, but you learn that it’s the people who leave a bigger mark with you. The quiet chats with guides about the land they love … the warm hugs and wide smiles that greet you in the lodges … the delicious food and songs served with energy and love… 

Oh, I just can’t wait to share the magic with you!

Bon voyage,

Custom Safaris: Work With Me

From the beaches and cosmopolitan city of Cape Town to the mountains and jungles of Uganda; from the plains of the Serengeti and the deserts of Namibia, to the floodwaters of the Okavango Delta – I’ve traveled to nearly every major safari destination – and I’m ready to put my experience to work for you!

Why work with me to design your Safari Vacation?

Totally Customized to You

Like everything I do, you won’t be shoehorned into a pre-packaged, generic safari when you work with me. The options for safaris are so diverse and unique that I’ll listen to your specific needs, dreams, and expectations to craft the dream itinerary with the best lodges and experiences for YOU. If you want to see every animal possible, we’ll make that happen with lots of game drives in wildlife-rich reserves … but if you’re not as into nature and just want a taste of safari life, we’ll make it as easy and comfortable with plenty of scenic sunset cocktail stops – sundowners are an important part of safari life!

Experience You Can Count On

I didn’t simply take a course and call myself a specialist… no, I put in the hours in game vehicles and charter flights (poor me, lol) over the past few years to understand the full safari landscape. I haven’t been everywhere, of course, but I have had enough varied experiences to help guide you. PLUS, I work with the best in the industry to make sure your safari vacation is seamless, easy, and stress free. There are a lot of special considerations when traveling to remote destinations, and I make sure you’re prepared for everything.

Ready to start planning your dream adventure to Africa? Click below to send me an email—so we can arrange your complimentary consultation call!

What’s your Safari Personality?

If you’re new to the world of safaris, embarking on one can seem like a wild adventure. Well, I’m here to be your guide! Join me for this enjoyable quiz to pinpoint the safari animal that suits your vibe best and get insights into an ideal safari itinerary to kickstart your plans! – Julia

Curated Blog Posts from the (African) Road

The Ultimate Adventure – Choosing your African Safari If you’re looking for the ultimate wildlife adventure, an African safari should be at the top of your list. And as someone who has had the opportunity to explore many incredible safari destinations, I can vouch for the thrill that awaits you! But with so many stunning destinations to discover and so many incredible experiences… Continue Reading
Proud to be an Abercrombie & Kent African Specialist! When I was eight years old, my parents went on an African safari while I was away at camp one summer. I sort of haven’t forgiven them for not taking me – I was too young, I get it… it’s understandable – but ever since then I’ve been dreaming of those magical places they talked… Continue Reading

Curated Video Tips on Traveling to Africa

Travle Tip: A Day on Safari!

Trip Recap: Cape Town & Beyond

Trip Recap: Zimbabwe – Victoria Falls

Trip Recap: Uganda – Bwindi Impenetrable Forest


Interviews

Virtual Safari Experience – Tintswalo Safari Lodge

Ever wondered what it’s like to experience The Virtual Safari in real life? Long-time viewer Julia Matheson spent a few days at the lodge and got to spend some quality time with her favourite lions.