african encounters travel agency

Welcome to African Encounter

We are an authentic and diverse travel group with over 25 years of providing unique experiences to Africa. Inspired by a vision of offering opportunities from Cape to Cairo, we pride ourselves in the diversity of our travel footprint.

With interests in everything from high end luxury travel, events and conferencing to adventure tourism, wilderness training and volunteering, we aim to offer a true “African Encounter”

Whilst we have a very diverse group, we all share a common purpose, and that is to make a real difference on the continent. We are firm believers of giving back and are the proud supporters of a multitude of long term, sustainable conservation and community development initiatives. Initiatives that make a real difference at a grass roots level, at the same time attending to 9 of the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals on a global level.

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All Africa Tours from Encounters Travel

45 encounters travel trips through africa.

• In-depth Cultural

Gods of Egypt

Take it! I didn't want to go but my wife made me and the tour was great! So much too see ! The had everything arranged down too the minute detail. I didn't have too worry about anything.

• Christmas & New Year

Morocco on a Shoestring

Great value for money trip, got to see a big chunk of Morocco in a short time.

Discover Egypt

This was one of the best tours we've been on. We were well taken care of from being met at the airport on arrival until we were delivered to the airport for departure. Our guides were very knowledgeable and friendly. The food was great and the hotels were excellent. It's a great way to see the highlights of Egypt. We were glad we didn't go any later because of the heat and next time would go a month or two earlier when its cooler.

Imperial Cities

Hadi our tour leader was fun, helpful and friendly. The tour itself was great, the places we visited were wonderful. Our driver was careful and brought us to our destination safe each day. Ibis Casablanca was the best hotel overall and food was fantastic. The included meals in other hotels just okay. I had a good time.

Nubian Adventure

Currently coming to the end of our Nubian Adventure tours with Encounters and have nothing but praise from Shareef our witty & erudite guide and the wonderful itinerary that has allowed us to experience some of the most wonderful artefacts of the Ancient Egyptians delivered with a marvellous mixture of both information & humour. Learnt so much more not just about ancient Egypt beyond what Hollywood & Shakespeare showed me but captured an essence of what it is like living in an Egypt that still evolving in the wake of the 2011 revolution. When I return to this fascinating country Encounters will be my first port of call to discover more about it.

Nubians & Beaches

If your reading this I strongly recommend this tour!!! We had a tour leader by the name of Sam and he was the most amazing person to show us around this beautiful country. Not only was he was full of information about everything we saw, but he was also so easy to get along with that he made the tour the best trip I have been on in a long time!!! If your considering this company make sure you have Sam as your tour leader you won't forget it!!!

Egypt Express

My husband and I took the 10 day encounters tour of Egypt in February 2017. Waleed was our tour leader, friend, brother, teacher, host and by the end of our trip, he was family. Waleed spent every minute of our trip sharing his vast knowledge and caring for the entire tour group....we didn’t have to worry about any travel or logistic details. And I learned so much!!!! Waleed was the most knowledgable and passionate tour leader I have ever had the pleasure of knowing and now he is a life long friend. A+

• River Cruise

Egyptian Legacy

This trip was absolutely amazing. Our Egyptologist, Aboudy, made the trip incredible! The trip was the perfect length for us because we got to see everything we wanted without it becoming too repetitive or boring. The Egyptian people were so incredibly lovely and welcoming. When we do and up in Egypt again, we will definitely ask Mr. Aboudy to be our guide again!

• Coach / Bus

Moroccan Highlights

Brilliant tour, great value for money, the guides were great, very knowledgeable, and a good laugh. Lots of additional excursions we otherwise wouldn’t have got to see if travelling alone. Happy it was a small tour when we seen other larger tours at different sites. Good pace to see lots in a short space of time. Would happily recommend to anyone

Pharaonic Encounters

Very informative and great service very well organised

Grand Tour of Morocco

Sands & Seas

We bought the tour on a groupon and what a deal it was. I have done Viking River Cruises before but this was also an outstanding trip. I absolutely loved Egypt and felt very safe there. Our tour guide was the best and really showed us a great experience. I would absolutely recommend this tour to anyone - young and old. One of my best trips ever!!!

• Hiking & Trekking

The Garden Route 10 Days

Beyond expectations. Tour was flawless from the airport connections to the backpackers lodges. Our guide Wendy with earthstompers was superb. Mariska was extremely helpful with tourradar and Nicolene was equally as well with travel encounters. They arranged our side trips for shark cage diving and skydiving as well without having any issues whatsoever. I would highly recommend this your to anyone. This trip to South Africa was a trip of a lifetime.

Classic Egypt

• Overland Truck

Namibia & Botswana Uncovered

We thoroughly enjoyed this tour and had some amazing experiences. Etosha, Chobe and the Okavango Delta we’re definitely our highlights as we saw so many animals. Although the accommodation was varied it was all of the standard we expected or, in some cases, better. The weather was extremely hot during our trip (45c) and so it did get very hot in some accommodation without air con or a fan and on the bus as well but most of the year it is probably fine! Our guide, Laurine, was fantastic at organising everything, cooking us great meals and sharing lots of information. Overall we found this trip to be an amazing experience.

All Africa Encounters Travel Tour Reviews

This was a wonderful trip! Our tour guide Shariff was amazing-he knew how to manage our group, finding ways to make everyone happy, always having a balance of wisdom, knowledge and humor!

I liked the tour overall, but there were too many shopping places we had to stop (stop too long).

Hands down one of the best tours I have ever been on. Our guide was incredible- very knowledgeable and could not be more accommodating. So many amazing sites. The accommodations were first class and everywhere we went the locals were so very kind. I highly recommend this tour. Loved every minute of it

Destinations

• Egypt tours (17)
• Morocco tours (14)
• South Africa tours (3)
• Tanzania tours (2)
• Namibia tours (1)
• Botswana tours (1)
• Eritrea tours (1)
• Kenya tours (1)
• Complete Safari Packing List: Clothes, Medicines, Gear & Essentials
• Wildebeest Migration in Africa 2022 (incl. Migration Map)
• 10 Best African Photographic Safaris 2024/2025: Tour Deals & Tips
• 10 Best Self-Drive Safaris 2024/2025
• 10 Best African Wildlife Safari Deals 2024/2025
• Compare Hot Air Balloon Safaris in Africa 2022
• 10 Best African Camping Safari Vacations 2022
• 10 Best Walking Safaris 2024/2025
• 10 Best Beach Safaris: Places & Packages 2022

International Versions

• Deutsch: Afrika Rundreisen von Encounters Travel
• Français: Circuits Afrique proposés par Encounters Travel
• Español: Circuitos a África de Encounters Travel
• Nederlands: Afrika Rondreizen van Encounters Travel

Visit South Sudan

— A journey to explore, experience and empower —

• Search Tour

Take a Trip to South Sudan | Why visit South Sudan?

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The African Encounters - excellent at crafting Trips in South Sudan, culture safaris to South Sudan and Best South Sudan Tours!

As recent as July 2011, the country was able to gain its delayed independence and it was granted the request however much it came along with various civil unrests that later relaxed in 2018. It is an incredible place for intrepid travelers, off-the-beaten path finders, and for tourists longing to see the origin of glorious developments that they have in their respective countries that originated from the state in which South Sudan is in at the moment. A tour in South Sudan is relaxing, heart-warming, and refreshing.

Diverse culture of the people of South Sudan is unmatched anywhere in the world, as much of it is undisturbed by civilization. In Sudan, the countryside life is natural, intact and rich with cultural diversity that would leave any tourist wondering how they never got here much earlier.

National parks are an array of diverse wild life and flora waiting for discovery by many who have continuously kept away from one of Africa’s most gifted gem.

Delay your trip no further, to this unique piece of adventure!

TOP AFRICAN DESTINATIONS

South sudan

Central African Republic

Why should people visit south sudan.

Watch the ancient glorious wrestling

Most African countries had wrestling as their traditional sporting activity but most of the cultures have gone modern and dropped the prominent sport apart from the South Sudanese. Visitors can get to enjoy bare chested youthful wrestlers that look as though they are impenetrable. This sport is basically done from the Bor's freedom square and the winners walk away with various herds of cattle.

South Sudan is a home of unique water sports

This country is a dessert but chances the magnificent flows of River Nile before they reach Egypt. The White Nile is a glory to this country because it possibly supplies water to all most the whole country but to get to the other side, it renders water sports activities like white water rafting, fishing, kayaking among others like sport fishing.

Mix and mingle with the exciting Mundari tribe and other rich cultures in South Sudan

Have you ever moved around and spot individuals with very long earrings, spotted faces, piercing around the mouth, various bangles on their both their arms and wrap shawls over their bodies are clothes, those are the typical South Sudanese and while most cultures have been abandoned due to modernization, these individuals still have their culture at the tip of their fingertips as though they still leave in the barbaric eras and its fascinating to watch them still dwell in their authentic culture.

BEST SELLING TOURS

3 Days Juba tour in South Sudan

Duration: 3 Days

Location: South Sudan

⟶ SAFARI DETAILS

3 Days Cultural Tour in South Sudan

8 Days Tour in South Sudan and Uganda

5 Days Kibale and Murchison Falls National Park Safari

Duration: 5 Days

Location: Uganda

5 Days Queen Elizabeth and Bwindi Impenetrable National parks Trip

15 Days Uganda Exclusive Birding Expedition

Duration: 16 Days

Popular Places To Visit During South Sudan Tours?

Worship places

Just like elsewhere in the world, people of South Sudanese are God fearing with major religions being Christianity, Islam and the African traditionalists. Visitors can enjoy touring and praising from churches like Saint Joseph’s Catholic church, Juba Christian Centre, Saint Theresa cathedral, Juba market mosque, main mosque, Konyo Konyo mosques, Kuwait mosques among others to appreciate the architecture and sculptures found in these sites.

Local markets

Because majority of the Sudanese Dinkas are pastoralists, cattle keeping is part of them and a means through which they survive. Big markets include Juba market, Jebel market and Konyo Konyo market. Just as the name suggests in Juba Arabic, Konyo Konyo market is always congested as it nearly feeds the entire country. Most of the indigenous people buy their necessities like food, clothes from this market.

Nimule National Park

Best things come in small packages but Nimule describes it all because it is probably the smallest National Park in the country but offers the most magnificent and enchanting views compared to other parks. Probably because its location at the borders with the glorious Pearl of Africa, the park gets a sneak peek of the climate of this country.

Nimule Park has a variety of lush green vegetation, Savanah woodlands, beautiful landscapes that permit filming and also provide a warm habitat for animals like Hippos, kobs, giraffes, gazelles, African dogs among other wildlife that tourists can sight only if their destination is South Sudan.

Full, fola or Nimule whatever you would wish to call these rapids that thunder down joyfully over gigantic rocks into a glorious water spout of Bahr al Jabal which is part of River Nile. This alone is amazingly enough to assure tourists that a journey to South Sudan will make them realize how good it is to be lost in right direction because falls in a dessert country is something undespicable.

CLIENTS' FEEDBACK

All went very well and I very much enjoyed the trip in South Sudan. I never felt unsafe or in an un-controlled situation. Donald and Joel were a great guiding team. He stayed always very calm and diplomatic and handled everything very well. Joel the driver drove extremely safely. Even after many hours on dirt roads he drove very smoothly and reliably. In my opinion he was more like a second guide than just the driver and definitely had the harder part of the job, navigating on these roads. I am sure it was not my last tour with your organization.

- Cecilia Harlitz (London, UK)

I really enjoyed this trip. It was great meeting the tribes and camping among them. I purchased some very nice items from them and needless to say, got great photos. The accommodation was of very good standard and the food as well.

- Frank Fleischer (London, UK)

Uganda was my first African destination and I loved it. The gorilla experience was superb but what I liked about The African Encounters was the respect for the local communities. Uganda is nature, yes, but also its people and The African Encounters made me enjoy and understand both realities. Thank you Joan and Donald. I look forward for another trip in Africa with your company.

- Carlos Micó (Valencia, Spain)

Safety guidelines to observe during a trip in south sudan.

While on any safari, travelers should ensure that they are safe and secure from any harm especially in countries that are universally known to be unstable. The following are some precautions tourists should take to safe guard themselves from any likely danger in this country.

Avoid moving at night

Since most of the violent crimes and activities are done in the wee ours of the morning and night hours, tourists should consider being in doors by around 7:00pm in the evening and avoid busy / crowded like local markets, down town areas, or big parties.

Hire an experienced tour guide on your South Sudan safari

Because most visitors are not very conversant with the local cities and towns in South Sudan, a local guide would work perfectly as they know the most chaotic areas and can clearly understand the meaning of different sounds and speak the local languages.

Follow guide’s instructions

Having a guide on a safari is advantageous but following their instructions give surety to travels that they will definitely get back home safe and become story tellers for the beautiful sights they see while on safaris in South Sudan.

Purchase a local Simcard in South Sudan.

Mobile phones aid in communication and staying connected with people back at home, hence tourists are encouraged to purchase local simcards so that they can effectively and efficiently communicate to their family, colleagues, friends and communicate to the booking office while they face any challenge or need to offer feedback.

Take photography but some places are prohibited

A safari that was meant to bring joy and happiness can turn into woes after the travelers is faced with charges such as taking pictures in confidential and restricted areas. Therefore, they should put it into account that military bases, parliament and other government buildings do not allow photography.

TRAVEL BLOG

EXPLORING THE IK PEOPLE OF UGANDA

March 25, 2024

WILDLIFE SAFARIS IN SOUTH SUDAN

THE KARAMAJONG PEOPLE OF UGANDA

GUIDE FOR A SOUTH SUDAN VISA

Travel tips for south sudan.

When to go to South Sudan for a tour?

Generally, safaris in South Sudan are undertaken during the dry season but it’s always hot in this country almost the whole year, with temperatures shooting to over 50 0 C but safaris can be done from December to February since the temperatures are always somewhere about 20 0 -37 0 C and can drop to almost half that temperature during the night which is reliably enough to guarantee a favorable weather to the tourists while on their safaris.

Getting a South Sudan visa

Travelers considering a visit to South Sudan should consider obtaining their visas before entering into this country because there are no visas on arrival anymore. South Sudan visas can be obtained by applying and paying for them online.

The traveler can then download their visa, print and present them to the responsible visa officers to obtain a stamp and check other travel documents upon arrival at the airport. South Sudan tourist visas range from $50 – 350$ per person depending on duration of stay and nationality.

Entry requirements

A passport with at least 6 months of validity while in the country and before leaving it is the first requirement that tourists should fulfill before granted entry into the country.

Tourists should possess necessary visas specifying their purpose of visit and period of stay in the country.

Travel permits shouldn’t be missed out especially in areas where they are required because if the travelers don’t have them, they won’t access the site or activity intended to be done.

Tourists should come with US dollars, Euros or local currency because ATM transactions for tourists are not in South Sudan.

The people and culture in South Sudan

Culture in South Sudan consists of religion, foods, ethnic groups, languages but the most prevalent of them all are the rich traditions of indigenous people. South Sudanese are diversely divided into 64 tribes with closely related cultural traits.

Dinka is the largest ethnic group in the country, occupying 36% followed by the Nuer making 16%. The love and attachment South Sudanese have for their tribes is magical.

The people of South Sudan are still typically indigenous and fully attached to their cultures. They have family dynamics similar to most of the African cultures like men inheriting their father’s fortune, women looking after the home and children being groomed by whole community.

Typically, Arabic and English are the official languages in South Sudan, however majority of the people still can’t speak, write and read English.

Their staple food is sorghum, millet, fish, milk which can as well be blended to make other cultural foods like okra stew called Bamwya in the local dialect.

Traditional acts of female genital mutilation are still common in the country.

Christianity is prevalent in South Sudan with over 60 % individuals but they have other religions like Islam and African tradition religions.

Suggested Packing List:

Travel documents and other personal requirements..

This seems obvious but usually the obvious things are forgotten. Tourists should endeavor to pack their passports, visas, travel permits at the fore front before getting anything for their safari. Yellow fever and Covid-19 vaccination certification, anti-malarial pills, insect repellants, etc.

Visitors should consider moving with all their important documents and cash in their wallets and not exposed to attract conmen and pick-pockets.

Tourists should also take up travel insurance that covers cancelation, emergency evacuation so that they are catered for incase of any emergency.

Tipping is not compulsory in South Sudan, but visitors can voluntarily choose any amount to tip a waiter at a local restaurant, porter and even the driver guide.

Photography equipment

Memories obviously cause a dejavu but they become more realistic if visitors have photography evidence. They shouldn’t miss binoculars, cameras, smart phones on their packing lists because they will make them better story tellers if they have evidence of the sites they talk about.

This sounds obvious because we can barely move without them on, but here we mean clothes appropriate for a destination like South Sudan. Light clothes are recommended due to the hot temperatures in this country.

Flash lights

This is Africa! therefore tourists should know that a torch is a must while visiting remote areas of the country because facilities like electricity might still be a challenge in a few places. Therefore, a torch will patch up the whole dark mood created by lack of electricity.

Light hand luggage

Travels are always different hence amount of luggage to be packed, depending on the needs but it’s advisable to carry lighter luggage with only essential items that can be frequently accessed or requested by officials.

Travelers are encouraged to obtain their own travel insurance as most tour operators here don’t provide. Anything can happen while they are here since they are not familiar with the environment and climate. In situations where they meet up with unfortunate incidents like accident or ailment, they can get evacuation services, and access treatment from the best hospitals in t

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Gorilla Trekking in Uganda, Rwanda and Congo

Gorilla trekking in uganda.

Mountain gorillas are only found in the dense forests of Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Uganda has the largest population of them. That’s what makes the Pearl of Africa a great gorilla trekking destination as it offers the opportunity to see and meet the endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.

Gorilla trekking in Uganda is a unique and unforgettable experience that allows you to observe these gentle giants up close and learn about their behavior, ecology, and conservation efforts that have kept them in existence.

Uganda has two gorilla trekking destinations: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Both parks are part of the Virunga Massif, a chain of volcanic mountains that spreads across the three countries where mountain gorillas live.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that covers 127.7 square miles of ancient forest. It is a dark and thick forest loved by almost half of the world’s mountain gorillas, as well as many other species of wildlife and plants.

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is a smaller park that covers 31.1 square miles of the Virunga conservation area. In it you’ll find sections of three of the eight major Virunga peaks: Mount Gahinga, Mount Muhabura, and Mount Sabyinyo. It’s known as the park where silver meets gold due to the existence of both silverbacks and golden monkeys.

Both parks offer exquisite gorilla trekking excursions commenced at different starting points where visitors converge and can only be part of a group of up to eight people. Led by a trained guide, the trackers embark on a journey to find their designated habituated gorilla family.

The trekking can take anywhere from one to six hours, depending on the location and movement of the gorillas. Once the gorillas are located, visitors can spend one hour with them, watching them feed, play, groom, and interact with each other.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park has 21 fully habituated gorilla groups found in its four sectors and they are available for gorilla trekking with an additional group still under habituation hence visitors interested in the gorilla habituation experience can visit it in the Rushaga sector.

Mgahinga National park only has one gorilla group known as the Nyakagyezi, one of the largest gorilla families in the country.

The gorilla trekking permits are issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority and cost $700 per person for foreign non-residents and $600 for foreign residents. The permits are limited and need to be booked in advance.

Gorilla trekking in Uganda is a rewarding and life-changing adventure that supports the conservation of these magnificent animals and their habitat. By visiting Uganda’s gorilla parks, you contribute to the conservation efforts and support local communities which in return help to protect the mountain gorillas from extinction.

GORILLA TOURS & SAFARI PACKAGES

2 Days Uganda Gorilla Trekking from Kigali.

8 days Uganda Gorilla Adventure Safari

3 Days Uganda Gorilla Tour

4 days double gorilla trek in Uganda.

5 days Uganda gorillas and wildlife safari

7 days Uganda epic safari

This activity is similar to gorilla trekking; however, here you visit gorillas that are still undergoing the training that lets them get used to human presence.

By taking part in this experience, you are meeting totally wild gorillas.

Visitors spend longer hours with these gorillas during this experience, they spend not less than four hours studying how they behave and interact when they sense human presence.

You’ll be in the company of researchers and hence part of the team for the day, you’ll collect data, take notes from observations of individual animals. By the end of the session, you shall be able to identify the gorilla family members by their character and physique.

This activity costs $1500, which is more than the Uganda rate but similar to the normal gorilla trekking cost in Rwanda.

Gorilla habituation is only carried out in the Rushaga sector in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

Kahuzi-Biega National Park is another national park in the DRC that covers an area of 6,000 square kilometers.

It is named after two dormant volcanoes: Mount Kahuzi and Mount Biega.

The park is home to the largest population of eastern lowland gorillas in the world, as well as other wildlife such as forest elephants, leopards, monkeys, and antelopes.

The park also has a rich diversity of plants and habitats, ranging from rainforests to bamboo forests to alpine meadows.

Gorilla trekking in Kahuzi-Biega National Park is a rare and rewarding adventure that allows you to see these elusive and endangered primates in their natural environment.

The trekking usually takes one to four hours, depending on the location and movement of the gorillas.

Once you find them, you can spend one hour with them, watching them feed, play, groom, and interact with each other.

The gorilla trekking permits cost $400 per person Gorilla trekking in the DRC is a one of a kind experience only enjoyed in that part of the world.

You won’t be able to trek both lowland and mountain gorillas in the same country as it is in Democratic Republic of Congo.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

East africa is awesome, take your chance and explore.

Looking for a luxurious gorilla trekking experience, Rwanda is your destination.

Mountain gorillas are traced in the Virunga Mountains and in Rwanda find them at Volcanoes National Park, one of the best places to go gorilla trekking, as it has a large population of habituated gorillas, well-developed infrastructure and a safe and stable political environment.

Volcanoes National Park is a 160 square kilometer park that covers five of the eight Virunga volcanoes: Karisimbi, Bisoke, Muhabura, Gahinga, and Sabyinyo.

The park is home to 12 gorilla families that have been habituated hence ready for tourist visits, as well as other wildlife such as golden monkeys, buffaloes, elephants, and various birds.

The park also has a rich history of holding the headquarters of the Karisoke research center at Karisimbi where the famous primatologist Dian Fossey dedicated her life to studying and protecting the mountain gorillas.

Interested in carrying out gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park, you need to first obtain a permit from the Rwanda Development Board, which costs $1,500 per person. The permit is your gateway to finding one of the greatest and magnificent primates on earth.

Just like in Uganda, only a maximum of 8 visitors are allowed to trek gorillas in a time space of 24 hours. Once you locate them, get to utilize the one hour allocated to create unforgettable memories with the primates that behave in a human-like nature.

The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is a great gorilla trekking destination because it offers the opportunity to see both lowland and mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.

Lowland gorillas are smaller, have shorter hair, and live in lower altitudes than mountain gorillas, which are larger, have longer hair, and live in higher altitudes. Most zoos across the world have the lowland gorillas however, none has the mountain gorillas and that’s why they are special and endangered species only found in three countries.

DRC has two national parks where you can go gorilla trekking: Virunga National Park and Kahuzi-Biega National Park. Both parks are UNESCO World Heritage Sites that protect the biodiversity of the region.

Virunga National Park is the oldest national park in Africa, established in 1925. It covers an area of 7,769 square kilometers and spans across the Albertine Rift, a branch of the Great Rift Valley.

The park is home to about a quarter of the world’s mountain gorillas, as well as other wildlife such as chimpanzees, elephants, lions, hippos, and birds.

The park also features the spectacular Virunga Mountains, a mountain range made up of eight volcanoes inclusive of Mount Nyiragongo, which has the world’s largest lava lake.

Gorilla trekking in Virunga National Park is a unique and unforgettable experience that allows you to observe these gentle giants up close and learn about their unique character.

The gorilla trekking permits cost $400 per person; this is the cheapest gorilla permit you’ll come across.

During your trek, you are accompanied by a team of armed rangers who guide you to where the gorillas are currently residing.

They are also meant to protect tourists against any rebel attacks that may arise, though the country is currently gaining back political stability and peace. 

Visitors are allowed to spend an hour with the endangered species studying every move they make and making the most of your one-hour session with the animals such as capturing moments with them.

Virunga National Park

Kahuzi-biega national park, be inspired.

Uganda Birding Safaris Unveiling Top Hotspots

GOLDEN MONKEY TREKKING IN UGANDA

Discounted gorilla trekking in Rwanda

Gorilla Permit Costs

Uganda Wildlife Education Center.

Nature Walks in Uganda.

Mount. Karisimbi.

Last Minute Gorilla trekking

Gorilla Trekking for Pregnant Women.

Rules and regulations of gorilla trekking.

• ● Visitors must be 15 years or older to get a gorilla trekking permit. This is because children easily carry air borne diseases like colds and can easily get closer to the gorillas due to their curiosity.
• ● Having a valid gorilla trekking permit is a must, it costs $700 per person in Uganda, $1,500 in Rwanda, and $400 in Congo. You need to book your permit in advance through a registered tour operator or at the respective government agencies like Uganda Wildlife Authority in Uganda.
• ● One should be in good health and free of any contagious diseases. If you have a cold, flu, or any other illness, you should not go gorilla trekking as you may infect the gorillas, whose immunity is too low when it comes to fighting off human diseases.
• ● Follow the instructions of your guide and trackers at all times. They will lead you to the gorilla family and tell you how to behave around them. You should also respect the local culture and customs of the people living near the gorilla habitats. Therefore, pay maximum attention during the briefings that happen before the trek.
• ● Keep a distance of at least 7 meters (23 feet) from the gorillas. This is to avoid contact and reduce stress to the gorillas. If the gorillas approach you, you should move back slowly and quietly. You should also avoid direct eye contact, as this may be seen as a command of authority to the gorillas yet the dominant silverback holds the authority of a particular group.
• ● Limit your time with the gorillas to one hour. This is to minimize disturbance and exposure to the gorillas. You should also keep your voice low and avoid making any sudden movements or noises. You should not touch, feed, or attempt to play with the gorillas.
• ● Do not eat, drink, or smoke near the gorillas. This could attract insects or animals that may harm the gorillas. It could also leave behind litter or droplets that may contaminate the gorilla habitat.
• ● You should not use flash photography or video recording devices that make a lot of noise. This could scare or irritate the gorillas. You should also turn off your phone or any other electronic devices that may interfere with the gorilla tracking signals.

Gorilla Trekking Packing List

• When packing your bags in preparation of this incredible adventure, pack appropriate clothing and footwear for gorilla trekking. The recommended clothing includes long trousers, long-sleeved shirts, hiking boots, socks, gloves, a hat, sunglasses and a rain jacket.
• The clothing should be in neutral colors such as khaki, green or brown, as bright colors distract the gorillas. The clothing should also be thick enough to protect you from thorns, insects, and cold weather because you’ll be trekking to high altitude areas that are known to get cold as you climb higher.
• Don’t forget to include essential items such as your permit, passport, camera, binoculars, water bottle, snacks, insect repellent, sunscreen, and a small backpack that will carry the lightweight items.
• You can also hire a porter to help you carry your items in case they are heavy and through doing that you give back to the local community.

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Explore's approach to travel... is authentic, genuinely customized, never 'packaged'.

Whether you are seeking an uber-lux 5 star fly-in safari or an off the map serious African adventure to the remote quarters of the continent, we will hand craft it for you.

Appointed Board Member Botswana Tourism Organisation in 2013

Appointed honorary Consul Republic of Zambia in 2014

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Named by Travel + Leisure as one of the top 10 safari outfitters in the world in 2023, Africa Adventure Consultants provides the best African safari adventures for individuals, couples, families and large groups.

Ready to create the perfect once-in-a-lifetime, custom luxury African safari vacation? Our award-winning safari adventures are available throughout all of East and Southern Africa, including popular destinations such as Tanzania , Kenya , South Africa and Botswana .

Our staff of safari specialists has more than 100 combined years in the travel industry and we visit Africa regularly to ensure the quality of our African safari vacations exceed expectations. We are ready to turn your dreams into a one-of-a-kind luxury African safari vacation!

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Luxury Safaris

Big 5 safaris, custom safaris, family safaris, why choose africa adventure consultants, we are a denver-based safari company with consultants who organize exclusive, custom, award-winning safari adventures throughout east and southern africa..

20+ Years of Experience

Custom-Designed Safaris

Knowledgeable Staff

Award-Winning

Passionate about Conservation

High-Quality Travel Experience

TRAVEL + LEISURE WORLD'S BEST 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2023

More reading, what does a safari cost in 2024, desert vs delta – where to travel in botswana, conquering kilimanjaro: a journey on the machame route, traveler’s corner: a family bucket list trip, kent’s return to tanzania, ciara’s adventures in zambia and botswana, the manta resort: secret island paradise, traveler’s corner: adventures and abundant wildlife in southern africa, sara’s top 5 namibia highlights, top 5 reasons to visit nyere & ruaha in tanzania, deep dive: uganda and rwanda’s gorilla trekking regions, traveler’s corner: a return to east africa.

Welcome To Dream To Africa Travel

 A curator of unique,  exclusive tailor-made African travel experiences for couples, families and small groups.  Based in Cape Town and born out of Leticia Machado’s passion for travel, new adventures, and a love for Africa, she believes in designing experiences that are as unique as the person she’s creating it for.  With Dream to Africa, you’ll see the continent in a new light – turning your dream holiday into a life time experience and making sure that every moment under the African sun is one to remember.

We understand that your time is precious, and that’s why we want you to enjoy every second of your journey to the fullest – from sipping on the finest bottle of wine in a 100-year old cellar to the powerful roar of a lion as the sun sets over a top luxury camp in the Serengeti. We wish is that you will leave Africa with a growing curiosity to explore further, a camera full of special memories and a memorable experience. 

Explore Our Destinations

Check out some of our top destinations and their highlights, from epic wildlife encounters in Southern and East Africa to blissful days on  white sandy beaches by the Indian Ocean.

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Country(ies):

Botswana , South Africa , Zimbabwe

Group size:

Min: 4 | Max: 20

B- 7, L - 7, D - 6

Highlights:

Kalahari Desert, San bush people, Okavango Delta, Moremi Game Reserve, Savuti Game Reserve, Chobe National Park, Vict...

   Deal

$1815 (p/p)

B- 13, L - 13, D - 11

Victoria Falls, Kalahari Desert, Okavango Delta, Chobe National Park, Makgadikgadi Pans, Hwange & Matopos National Pa...

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$3845 (p/p)

Min: 4 | Max: 12

B- 8, L - 0, D - 4

Cape Town, Cape Agulhas, Route 62 wine tasting, Oudtshoorn, Klein Karoo ostrich farm, easy canoeing in Wilderness NP, Knysna Heads viewpo...

$1110 (p/p)

B- 6, L - 0, D - 4

Botswana , Namibia , South Africa , Zimbabwe

B- 19, L - 18, D - 18

Cape Town, Orange River, Cederberg Region, Fish River Canyon, Giants Playground, Sesriem Canyon, Namib Desert, Dune 4...

$2685 (p/p)

B- 14, L - 13, D - 12

God's Window, Three Rondavels, Panorama Route, Kruger National Park, Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary, St. Lucia boat trip, Hluhulwe-Imfolozi ...

$2270 (p/p)

South Africa Tours

If you're looking for a truly unforgettable safari experience, then our South Africa tours are perfect for you.

Well known as one of the top destinations for thrill-seeking and adventurous travellers, our South Africa tours leave travellers with a lifetime of memories.

South Africa has so much to offer - meet a shark face-to-face, climb Table Mountain, visit the iconic Robben Island where Nelson Mandela was a prisoner, go on a wild safari adventure in the Kruger National Park or visit one of South Africa's bustling cities for great food and fine wine as well as many more amazing activities available on our South Africa holidays.

Unforgettable South Africa tours

Discover South Africa in a way few have before with one of our incredible group tours. Whether you want to visit one of the 21 National Parks, eight World Heritage sites or take advantage of the wide selection of activities that utilise the beautiful 3,500km coastline, South Africa is a great location to visit with friends and family.

Enquire about our South Africa tours

If you want to discuss your South Africa tour packages in more detail, a member of our experienced team is on hand to help. Alternatively, request a brochure and discover the delights that our Southern Africa group tours have to offer.

We can guarantee window seats on our safaris and you won't find any hidden charges on our site. Book your holiday with confidence today.

Want to know when is the best time to go to South Africa? This handy guide should help .

More information about South Africa tours

Do you want to know more about South Africa and its beauty? Or do you need accurate visa information?

Contact the South Africa tourism board for more information.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Tour reviews.

I liked the fact we were met at the airport and helped thru customs and getting a visa and then upon leaving taken to where we needed to go. Its always tough to figure out where everything is in a foreign airport when you do not travel much Everything was great. Our guide was very knowledgeable and liked that we were interested in what he was telling us. We were lucky to be in a group with like minded people who also wanted to stay in places longer of which our guide accommodated. Only negative thing was the sitting train. Best to just take the flying option. Train was not bad but has no services, no alcohol, and breakfast was all carbs and an egg. Egypt really seems to like their breads and pastries....

I have dealt with Anthony Horrobin on a number of occasions and it is like talking to an old friend on the phone. Anthony is super-efficient and will always go the extra mile to create the perfect trip.

This is our first travel through Encounters Travel and so far the arrangement is working very well. Our travel is not until April 2017 so I am more than hopeful all will continue to run as smoothly as it has so far.

Trip booked through Groupon at a Great offer price - Encounters was nothing but professional from the start. I even purchased insurance - extra days and got the best flights from my local airport- Great experience

I purchased my rid tour as part of a group coupon. Is obituary hesitant but my tour was great. The staff at Encounters were professional and helpful. I had a lot of questions but no one made me feel like a pest. Good experience. I always wanted to go to Morocco and I finally got to go last September. I'm glad I chose this tour group. They were professional and attentive. Good times!

South Africa Country Guide

Time: GMT+2 Dial Code: +27 Area: 1,22 million km2 Elevation: The lowest point in South Africa is Sea level at 0m | The highest point in South Africa is Mafadi 3,450m (11,319 ft.) Population: 56,433,258 (2018) Capital: Cape Town, Pretoria, Bloemfontein Government: Parliamentary republic Language: English, Afrikaans, Zulu, Xhosa, Southern Sotho, Tswana, Northern Sotho, Venda, Tsonga, Swati, Ndebele

South Africa, officially the Republic of South Africa, is the southernmost country in Africa. The coastline of South Africa stretches along the Indian Ocean and the Atlantic Ocean. South Africa's neighbouring countries include Botswana, Namibia and Zimbabwe to the north, and Mozambique and Swaziland to the east and northeast.

This country is the largest in Southern Africa and the 25 th largest country in the world by land and area. South Africa is also the world's 24 th most populous nation and the southernmost country on the mainland of the Old World or the Eastern Hemisphere.

The society of South Africa is multiethnic and encompasses an assortment of languages, cultures and religions. The country's constitution recognises 11 official languages. From 1994, all ethnic and linguistic groups have been politically represented by the country's democracy. The democracy consists of a parliamentary republic and nine provinces.

As a result of South Africa's multicultural diversity post-Apartheid, the country is often referred to as the 'Rainbow Nation'. South Africa is classified by the World Bank as an upper-middle-income economy and a newly industrialised country. Its economy is the second largest in Africa and the 34 th largest in the world.

The climate of South Africa is generally temperate as it is situated in the Southern Hemisphere and enclosed by the Indian and Atlantic Oceans on three sides. The country is also ranked sixth out of the world's 17 megadiverse countries.

• Panorama Route - a picturesque road that connects a variety of cultural and natural points of interest.
• God's Window - a famous natural landmark and viewpoint along the Panorama Route in Mpumalanga.
• Cape Winelands - an excellent wine-producing area with beautiful mountain ranges around Franschhoek and Stellenbosch.
• Cango Caves - situated at the foothills of the Swartberg range, these natural wonders have unique formations.
• Garden Route - a scenic lengthy stretch of the southwestern coast from Mossel Bay to the Storms River.
• Addo Elephant Park - a wildlife conservation park and sanctuary near Port Elizabeth with 450 elephants.
• Wild Coast - positioned in the Eastern Cape, also known as the Transkei with beautiful bays and beaches.
• Cape of Good Hope - a craggy headland on the Atlantic Coast of the Cape Peninsula.
• Most South Africans speak English, so tourists won't have trouble communicating.
• Keep an eye out for your valuables and don't flaunt jewellery or electronics in public.
• Avoid carrying a lot of cash, as major credit cards are widely accepted.
• When visiting a national park, do not touch or feed the animals.
• Do not underestimate the sun, and wear sun cream and a hat for protection.
• Smoking is not allowed inside restaurants, but many places have a separate smoking section.
• Public transport is not very reliable so rather take a taxi or an Uber.
• The dress code in South Africa is causal, and bring some layers for the evenings.

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Our video features bring our tours to life in a way that no photo can, you'll feel like your on the tour!

POSTS FROM OUR BLOG

Need some travel inspiration or looking for some handy travel tips? Our blog provides excellent insight into our travel destinations - from tour updates to country guides, packing lists to little known things to do, you'll find it all in our travel blog.

What type of food to expect to eat in South Africa

South African cuisine is a lot like the countries diversity and rich history -  with delicacies coming from the Cape Malay to recipes deriving from the Dutch settlers.

Best time to visit South Africa.

Planning your holiday is easier when you know how to pack and plan so here's a guide on when is the best time to visit South Africa.

Africa is Waiting…

At Ubuntu Travel, we care about your whole journey. From the moment you speak to our Travel Specialists to your return back home, we are dedicated to making every detail of your safari in Africa absolutely flawless. 

We focus on combining breathtaking wildlife experiences with luxury accommodations, exclusive tours and authentic interactions that will compliment your interests, creating unforgettable and treasured memories. 

Through conservation and social development initiatives, your uniquely designed luxury safari will help to positively impact the destinations you visit; both for the wildlife and the local communities who live in and around these last remaining wilderness areas.

If you’re planning your first visit to Africa, or your fifth, we’ll create the trip of a lifetime for you and your loved ones. Allow us to dream up your next adventure, so you may find yourself surrounded by the splendor of Africa in the months to come.

Why Ubuntu Travel?

Bespoke Itineraries

We design adventures from the ground up around your goals and needs so you can experience Africa just as you’ve always dreamed.

Unique Experiences

With deep roots in Africa, we offer exclusive, unique opportunities to get involved with conservation efforts and immerse yourself within unfamiliar cultures.

Responsible Travel

We partner with local communities throughout Africa to take every measure necessary to ensure we affect positive change and enrich lives throughout every journey.

Destinations to Explore

South Africa

• How long does it take to travel to Africa from the US?

• Unlocking Africa’s Majesty: Meet the Big Five Safari Icons

• Which are the Most Popular African Countries to Visit?

Testimonials

Leah worked with us for over a month building the perfect 2 week honeymoon for us. She helped us decide on what area/countries of Africa were best for what we were looking for. Then, based on our budget, wish list of activities, and dates she gave us options on accommodations, schedules and activities and constantly reworked the itinerary until we were ecstatic about it. They respond very quickly to any email, call or whatsapp and were always there to answer our questions. They helped us with travel documents, covid tests, and airline flights. They even sent us Ubuntu Travel luggage that was perfect for the bush planes luggage requirements. Once we were in Africa, we never worried about anything at all - there was always a private car transfer, private guide, or someone to escort us. We were pampered and surprised with romantic dinners and champagne three times ! We were SO impressed and happy with everything they booked for us, and the entire process was COMPLETELY stress free. The trip was the trip of a lifetime - all thanks to Ubuntu ! We’ve already recommended them to so many of our friends !  

Thank you to the entire team at Ubuntu Travel for listening to our desires, asking questions and then curating the perfect trip to Africa! If you are looking for a team to help you make your African dream trip come true, I highly recommend Ubuntu Travel! They were very easy to work with, detail oriented, communicative and professional. My husband and I had dreamt of taking our 3 adult children to Africa and Ubuntu Travel made this dream happen, even with COVID. Ubuntu's ability to navigate us through all the challenges/restrictions that came with COVID was above and beyond. We could not have done this on our own. Africa is a magical place and the Ubuntu's teams personal love for the Bush and extensive knowledge of Africa made our trip especially memorable. I highly suggest you trust them and let them do the planning you won't be disappointed. Don't wait book your safari now, Africa is incredibly special. Many thanks to the Ubuntu Travel team until we meet again!

I cannot recommend Ubuntu Travel enough! My husband and I used them to plan our honeymoon November 2021 and thought it was the best decision we made for our travels. Ubuntu was perfect for us because they made planning extremely easy and had excellent customer service. We had never traveled to Africa before and were planning our honeymoon during COVID so it is easy to get overwhelmed with all the travel requirements and options available. Ubuntu Travel curated the perfect itinerary for us based on our preferences over a few meetings and were always available for any questions we had. They also handled all of our transportation, activities, and COVID tests when we arrived in Africa which was very convenient. During the honeymoon they went above and beyond to check in on us to make sure all of our travels were running smoothly. The only thing we had to worry about was booking our flights there and back home! Thanks to Ubuntu Travel we had the honeymoon of our dreams and cannot wait to visit Africa again (and would 100% book through Ubuntu Travel again!).

We had the most incredible trip to Kenya that was organized by Kyle and Jenna at Ubuntu Travel. Everything from beginning to end was seamless. We started off our trip at Giraffe Manor which had been on our bucket list forever and it totally lived up to expectations. The accommodation, food and service were impeccable. The experience with the giraffes was incredible. My adult kids cannot stop talking about how special that experience was. We then moved on to the Masai Mara where we spent two days at Sanctuary Olanana and three days at andbeyond Bateleur. Both camps in every way were amazing. Traveling during COVID could be challenging but Ubuntu Travel were so thorough in their planning that our trip went off without a hitch. I would highly recommend Ubuntu Travel for travel to Africa, and am so thankful that I used them to create for my family and I a Dream vacation.

"This was a dream vacation the lodges were beautiful the food fabulous people amazing animals fantastic everything was perfect from start to finish arrangements from start to finish were impeccable."

Plan a Trip

Reach out and let’s start talking. We’ll listen and begin to tailor an experiential, private, luxury vacation based on exactly how you want to experience Africa. From adventure to relaxation—and everything in between—let us handle every detail of your unforgettable journey.

What does a safari agency do?

We customize journeys for individuals and groups of all sizes, specializing in luxury safaris in Southern and East Africa. We work closely with our clients to design itineraries that fit their specific travel goals with the sole focus of delivering bucket list adventures and experiences.

How far in advance should I book a safari?

We recommend booking travel anywhere from six months to a year in advance, to be sure that you are able to secure your preferred accommodations and travel routes, as most lodges have limited accommodations and rooms fill up well in advance. If you are sure of your future travel plans, we can book over a year in advance, however, your international flights will need to be booked at a separate time, as those schedules are only released 11 months in advance. That being said, we are also able to book last minute travel, pending flight and lodge availability, and have done so on many occasions.

How safe is a safari?

Very safe! Safari guides and staff are highly trained to keep guests safe during their safari experiences. Understanding and recognizing animal behaviors is a key part of ranger training, teaching guides to respect the space of wild animals and provide a safe environment for both the guests and the wildlife.

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25 Annual Trips

20 african countries, throughout the 4 corners of africa, let’s just say we have a slight obsession with exploring mama africa., ready to travel, check out what our trips ‘feel like’ in just 60 seconds.

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Explore Our Upcoming Tours

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March 31 - April 10, 2024

Saffron, Wine & Thalasso

May 24 – june 4, 2024.

Eswatini & south africa

May 25 - june 4, 2024.

ZAnzibar & Tanzania

Safari & sandy isles, june 23 - july 2, 2024.

The Rainbow Island

July 1-13, 2024.

Zimbabwe, Botswana & Zambia

October 5 - october 15, 2024.

October 14 - 22, 2024

October 26 - November 4, 2024

Explore The Southern Route

November 22 - december 3, 2024.

December 27, 2024 - January 2, 2025

Explore The Northern Route

December 31, 2024 - january 11, 2025.

Reconnecting at Panafestival

July 25 - august 3, 2025.

Benin & Togo

Know your roots.

Kenya & zanzibar

2024 dates tba.

The Rhythm Island

Rwanda & kenya

The great migration.

Dakar Senegal Experience

Real Estate Investment Tour

Life in Lagos

South Africa & Zanzibar

lamu & zanzibar

Kriol jazz festival, may 24 - june 4, 2024, tanzania & zanzibar, july 1– 13, 2024.

November 22 - December 03, 2024

Rwanda & Kenya

Maasai mara great migration, nomadic adventures, lamu & zanzibar, have reservations already, leave a message for mama africa and tell her you’re on your way, choose your experience by country.

Away to Africa offers tours in 20 different countries reaching all four corners of the continent.

East Africa

You’re in good hands, private getaways.

Let’s create the perfect customized itinerary, just for you!

Away to Africa private getaways is a tailored service offered to clients seeking a luxury experience, a private chartered flight or a customized itinerary for a family vacation. Whether you are booking for a business or leisure, traveling solo or a with your family, you can rest assure that you’re in good hands with Away to Africa.

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Client testimonials.

This worry free trip was full of adventures like bike riding in the Karura forest in Kenya, yoga on a rooftop and on boogie boards in the ocean, feeding giraffes and elephants, fine dining in restaurants, live concerts, historical tours, shopping and of course relaxing on the beach. The itinerary was well planned and seamless. The fact that the only thing I needed to worry about was packing my suitcase definitely made this trip worthwhile. I’m looking forward to booking my next trip to the African continent with the Away to Africa team.

– Tiffany B. | A Feel Trip W/ Jah9 in Kenya

Our family vacation to Zanzibar and South Africa was nothing short of amazing. The detail spent in our itinerary to experiencing the culture has left an indelible mark on our family. Our tour guides throughout the tour were very attentive. I thank Away to Africa for this heartfelt experience words alone are not enough. Our family and group memories are priceless! We will meet again!

– Susan C. | Zanzibar & South Africa – NYE & AFROPUNK

The organizer was in constant contact with me and advised me on the best way to handle my delayed thereby missed connecting flight to Johannesburg, as well as making accommodations for missed activities due to late arrival. The personnel/guides provided by Away to Africa were the best. Truly a great team, very friendly, knowledgeable and fun to be around. They made our trip very enjoyable. The activities planned were amazing, getting right into the heart of South Africa, some tourist locations as well as ground roots locations. Overall, more than what I expected and everything I had hoped for. Thank you Tiffanie and the Away To Africa team for an experience that truly is beyond words!!!

– Marlene C. | Zanzibar & South Africa – NYE & AFROPUNK

I had such an amazing time in Morocco. Away to Africa made certain that I was able to see and experience as much possible within those 10 days. This trip has truly changed my outlook on life in so many ways.I highly recommend anyone to invest in themselves to encounter a breathtaking experience. I plan to book many more trips with Away to Africa not only because of the experience but because of the team. I felt safe and right at home. Don’t let life pass you by, go and experience something great through Away to Africa!

– Maya M. | Morocco

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Featured Safaris

For more than four decades, African Travel has passionately embraced Africa, curating personalized, sustainable, luxury safaris filled with nature's awe-inspiring moments, thrilling wildlife encounters, and enriching cultural experiences. We have carefully curated a selection of our featured safaris, combining our most popular adventures, seasonal specials, and exciting new offers. While these itineraries showcase the passion and expertise of our safari specialists, they are entirely customizable to align with your unique preferences and tastes. Draw inspiration from our suggestions to create your unique African journey.

Safari Of The Week

Southern Explorer

10 days from $12,395 per person

Zimbabwe & Victoria Falls South Africa

Sightseeing

Experience the epitome of luxury and enchantment on a dream safari adventure through Southern Africa.  Immerse yourself in vibrant cultures, behold breathtaking vistas, and succumb to the allure of Cape Town. Discover the untamed wilderness of Kruger National Park, where nature's wonders unfold, and bear witness to the majestic grandeur of Victoria Falls.

African Romance

12 days from $15,695 per person

South Africa Mozambique

Looking for the perfect escape to embrace Africa? This journey is filled with the most romantic touches while visiting areas where your tourist dollars have a mighty impact.

Book now and receive a complimentary island hopping tour with visits to beautiful beaches, snorkeling and the ultimate beach picnic.

Cape to Cairo

16 days from $18,295 per person

Zimbabwe & Victoria Falls South Africa Egypt Kenya

Featuring the most sought-after highlights across the continent, this adventure includes the coastal wonders of Cape Town, the grandeur of Victoria Falls, the endless game viewing  in Kenya’s Maasai Mara, and the towering Great Pyramids of ancient Egypt.

Delta, Rivers and Falls

10 days from $16,495 per person

Botswana Zambia & Victoria Falls

Staggeringly beautiful, Botswana and Zambia have developed a tradition of top-level safari tourism, offering some of the best wildlife safaris you will find. 

Discover Morocco

8 days from $8,295 per person

On this adventure, you will discover the charm and beauty of Morocco's imperial cities and beautiful scenery. Explore ancient medinas, marvel at the shifting sands of the Sahara, and relish spices in busy souks. This experience will be one you will treasure for a lifetime.

Discover Rwanda

10 days from $26,345 per person

Come on an adventure in the land of a thousand hills. Rwanda’s friendly people will welcome you as you explore the open plains, woodlands and lakes of Akagera National Park before continuing your safari to track the mountain gorillas of Volcanoes National Park.

Travel between November 2023 – May 2024 and save 30% on the first gorilla trek in Volcanoes National Park. Savings on the permits will be applied at the time of reservation and are not reflected in the pricing rates.

Discover the Wonders of Tanzania

9 days from $15,995 per person

Tanzania never fails to deliver an exceptional safari experience. On this immersive journey descend into the mists of the Ngorongoro Crater and enjoy a safari far from the crowds on the northern edge of the Serengeti. Walks, night drives and time with the Maasai add a different perspective to the bush.

South Africa's Natural Wonders

10 days from $12,300 per person

South Africa

Take in breathtaking views of Cape Town, then journey to the marine and wildlife kingdoms of Grootbos Nature Reserve and Shamwari Game Reserve. 

The Connoisseur's Collection

13 days from $30,595 per person

Botswana Zambia & Victoria Falls South Africa

Food and Wine

From the World Heritage treasures of the “Fairest Cape” and Victoria Falls to the unmatched wildlife viewing in the Okavango Delta and the exclusive Singita Sabi Sand, this collection of adventures delivers the ultimate connoisseur’s safari experience.

The Last Refuge

10 days from $17,195 per person

Botswana Zimbabwe & Victoria Falls

Botswana serves up a pristine wilderness adventure in comfortable and secluded tented camps. From the thriving elephants and hippos of the Okavango Delta to the Kalahari's meerkats and desert adapted wildlife, this is Africa at its best.

Ultimate South Africa with Victoria Falls

Zambia & Victoria Falls South Africa

This journey combines contemporary design and exclusivity with beautiful settings and spectacular wildlife viewing to create the ultimate sensory wildlife safari.

Ultimate Tanzania and Rwanda

12 days from $25,295 per person

Tanzania Rwanda

This journey has all the ingredients required to create a safari masterpiece. Unparalleled service at intimate properties, pristine locations devoted to preserving Africa’s wildlife, photographic opportunities galore, all perfectly paced and ready to be enjoyed.

Under Kenyan Skies

8 days from $19,195 per person

This Kenyan journey focuses on prime wildlife regions and presents an unparalleled opportunity to delve deeper into Kenya's wildlife and culture and witness the country's exciting future. 

World's Greatest Show & Safari - Mara

12 days from $12,795 per person

Tanzania Kenya

This safari covers the most likely route of the Great Migration flying between the best camps in Kenya and Tanzania. Witness the famous elephant herds of Amboseli with Mt. Kilimanjaro in the background, safari in the Maasai Mara, and explore the Ngorongoro Crater. 

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Meetings & Incentives

First, I want to say thank you, thank you, and thank you for the amazing trip in Ghana! My clients are so thankful for the experience and were so impressed with how things flowed and were managed. Also, George was AMAZING as well as Francis. We greatly appreciate them very much! With that being said, I have a few requests for future trips to Africa (smile) and I would like to get the ball rolling quickly! After some of my clients and followers saw pictures from the trip, I immediately started getting requests. And I've decided that my 2025 birthday trip will be to Africa. I've placed details below for everything and look forward to your reply so we can get things going!

I am very happy to report that my clients and I had a great experience in Ghana, and we received excellent customer service from your staff. In my line of work, I use a lot of travel agencies and get different experiences. Your entire staff provided the best customer service I have ever experienced, and everyone was very excited about their job and making sure they went beyond the call of duty. I look forward to recommending this agency to my clients. I would like to recognize Richard Williams and Brandie Pratt for doing an outstanding job and going beyond the call of duty with the planning and execution of my group trip to Ghana. I hope they will be recognized for their valuable customer service. Thank you for your advice and all you did to make this trip of a lifetime for my clients, and I will never forget. I look forward to using your agency soon and referral to other agencies. Cutomized Tour Of Ghana - (Fantastic Journeys) - Jan 15 ,2023

I want to thank Palace Travel for our great trip to Ghana. The itinerary was so interesting, we learned so much about Ghana's history and culture. The hotels were fine. We especially liked our guide and driver, Ernest Nkansah and Samuel Minanor. They were so thoughtful and considerate of our needs. It was a pleasure to be with them. They are valuable assets to your company. Thanks again,

Dear Palace Travel, The trip was great for our educational purposes. I hope to have the  chance to lead another  one of these group trips soon. Regards, Dr. Craig A. Foster Professor Department of Behavioral Sciences and Leadership United States Air Force Academy, Colorado Springs, Colorado Educational Tour of Ghana, March 2010 03/19/2010 - 03/27/2010

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• East Africa
• Southern Africa
• North Africa
• Central Africa
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African Encounter is a small, dedicated team - we like to think of ourselves as the Africian safari experts! We are passionate about Africa and dedicated to making your safari to Africa an experience like no other. We have lived and travelled in Africa for many years and have been planning safari itineraries since 1994. For many years we ran our own safari operation in Mana Pools, Zimbabwe and understand what makes a good safari operator (and what does not!). We have maintained a great many contacts throughout the industry and have associate offices in nearly every country that we send our clients. You are always assured of a local contact and a smiling face when you arrive in Africa, and wherever your itinerary takes you. We will plan your safari itinerary with as much care, thought and attention as if it were our own. That is our pledge to you.

At African Encounter we strongly believe that it is the quality and professionalism of our service that distinguishes us from the competition, and our common passion for Africa that motivates us to want to share our unique experiences with you. We guarantee you'll come to trust and rely on our years of experience and expertise as we work with you to plan one of your special Africa tours.

Why use an Africa Travel Specialist?

Let’s face it. if you're sitting at home thinking about a safari to africa for the first time, you can be forgiven for wondering where on earth to start, who to talk to and where and when you should go…, what our clients say about us, our entire 2 week safari ,and 1 week in zanzibar ran like clockwork. our african encounter's team both in africa and australia knew exactly where we were, what was happening, and how things were progressing all the times. contact was available 24hrs a day should it have been required. we were completely happy with the high level of service provision from everyone we encountered over the entire trip. our safari's, locations, accommodation, transfers, guides were just great, and we would most certainly utilise their services again to arrange another trip., we reached out to african encounters for a last-minute booking to victoria falls and botswana for safari. we had only a certain amount of days and african encounters was able to schedule a trip for us that met both our time and our budget. it was a burden off of our shoulders we were totally taken care of and guided as we moved from camp to camp. someone always met us at the airport and ushered us through. we felt safe and were just able to have a good time in the beautiful surroundings of zimbabwe and botswana. we were booked at some incredible camps and lodges and it felt very much like home to us (although we were far away from home). we will definitely recommend african encounter to our friends., my 8 day safari certainly lived up to any expectations i had. in the main, accommodation was very good to excellent, as was their food and service. our driver/guide was most genial, helpful, efficient .... and good fun maximum use was made of areas visited and time spent in each location. as a result animals "performed" accordingly with sightings of a leopard close up, a number of black rhino and a river crossing, as well as many lions, elephants, cheetahs, wildebeest, jackals etc. special arrangements were also made so that i could visit the carnivore restaurant in nairobi (an inclusion at the end of the tour) before catching an early flight. african encounter is thoroughly recommended., get some safari travel tips on our blog page, about the owners.

The owners of African Encounter are Patrick and Elaine Brakspear. Elaine started as a travel agent in Sydney, Australia in 1994 but was born in Zambia and grew up in Zimbabwe. Patrick was born and raised on a farm in Zimbabwe and until 2004 owned and operated a safari business in Mana Pools National Park in Zimbabwe, taking overseas visitors on canoeing trips down the Zambezi or hosting them at his mobile tented camp. Patrick and Elaine now work together in their travel consultancy business where they are both able to indulge their passion for Africa while utilizing their vast knowledge and experience of Africa to provide advice to the many people looking to travel to Africa each year. Together they provide a complete travel advisory service, taking care of all arrangements and ensuring that every safari booked through them is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Patrick has recently written a travel guide called (101 things to know when you go) ON SAFARI IN AFRICA aimed at enhancing the safari experience, full of interesting facts and observations – a genuine travel companion. Patrick also takes the opportunity to accompany our photographic tours to get his own Africa ‘fix', and to keep in touch with a continent close to his heart.

Both Patrick and Elaine travel to Africa regularly to maintain their contacts and relationships with the many people within the safari industry who they have come to know over many years in the business. You can be sure that when you book your safari through African Encounter you are in good hands.

You can be sure that when you book your safari through African Encounter you are in good hands.

Where to now?

Whether you are a frequent visitor or this is a once in a lifetime dream trip, it is our pledge to match your expectations with the knowledge and connections we maintain throughout the continent, and in so doing provide a level of service we hope you will find both professional and reassuring. Contact us now by completing our straight forward CONTACT FORM.

P.S. We are also listed with SafariBookings.com should you prefer to browse a selection of packaged tours (despite our preference to offer flexible, tailor made safaris designed especially for you).

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“Karibu” and welcome to Bench Africa , Australia's oldest and most trusted Africa travel specialist, where passion meets expertise, culminating in seamless safari experiences. With over 50 years in the industry, and centuries of collective industry knowledge, we take pride in curating exceptional journeys that transport you to uncharted realms of exploration with thrilling wildlife adventures and immersive cultural experiences.

Who is Bench Africa?

At Bench Africa, we are more than just a travel company - we are a family that has been at the forefront of curating safaris in Africa for over half a century. With our award-winning team of dedicated travel experts, we are committed to providing personalised service and crafting tailored travel itineraries that go above and beyond your expectations. With exceptional destinations, bespoke adventures, exhilarating wildlife encounters, and authentic cultural exchanges, no one is better placed to show you the land that has captured our hearts.

The Bench Africa Team

What sets the Bench Africa team apart? Our unwavering commitment to excellence and our deep love and respect for Africa and her islands. We are not travel agents but passionate safari specialists who live and breathe Africa. Our deep connection to the continent means that every experience we create is infused with passion and authenticity. Our team is dedicated to going above and beyond to make your safari dreams a reality. We are passionate about sharing our knowledge, guiding you through the planning process, and providing attentive support from start to finish. We take pride in our relationships with our clients, many of whom have become repeat customers and lifelong friends.

Why Choose Bench Africa?

When you choose Bench Africa, you can be confident that you are in safe hands. Bench Africa takes great pride in being among a select few companies in Australia that own ground operations in Africa. Bench Africa's family-owned company portfolio includes ground operations in Kenya and Satao Camp, a safari camp in Tsavo East. This direct ownership sets us apart and reinforces our commitment to delivering exceptional experiences on the ground, guaranteeing that we always have our finger on the pulse. They are our eyes and ears, constantly updating us on the latest developments in camps, wildlife conservation and the political climate. This invaluable connection allows us to deliver up-to-date and well-informed experiences to our clients. With your safety and well-being in mind, we have implemented comprehensive Safe Travel protocols in response to the new travel environment. We work closely with our trusted partners and accommodations to ensure the highest hygiene and safety measures are in place throughout your journey.

But it doesn't stop there. We know that a knowledgeable and personable guide can make or break a safari. That's why we carefully select our partners in Africa, those with experienced private guides who are experts in their field and warm and delightful travel companions. They bring Africa's stories to life, sharing their insights and passion along the way.

With Bench Africa, your journey becomes more than just a vacation. It becomes a captivating story that unfolds as you explore Africa's wonders. Let us set the stage for your adventure, and together, we'll create a truly remarkable experience.

Bench Africa is committed to CATO Covid-Safe Protocols based on guidelines published by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC).

These new protocols, put forward by the Council of Australian Tour Operators, are   supported by medical evidence and have been developed with the help of governments and public health authorities, along with leading tour operators from around the world, to help with safe travel throughout the Covid-19 pandemic. The protocols focus on three key areas: operational and staff preparedness, delivering a safe experience, and rebuilding trust and confidence. Recommendations include signage, staff training and sanitation, health and hygiene, social distancing, contactless payment, contact tracing, and communication.

Why Travel with Bench Africa?

TAILORED TO YOU

We take the time to understand what you enjoy so we can create the perfect holiday for you.

RENOWNED SERVICE

With a legacy spanning over 50 years, Bench Africa has established a reputation as Australia's premier Africa safari specialist.  Our track record of crafting stylish, unique, and perfectly seamless African holidays has been recognised and celebrated, culminating in the prestigious title of ' Best Specialty Wholesaler ' at the highly esteemed National Travel Industry Awards.

FIRST-HAND KNOWLEDGE

Every member of the Bench family has a true passion for Africa and has travelled extensively throughout the continent, with many having lived and worked there.

CREATING POSITIVE CHANGE

We believe in the power of tourism to protect Africa's incredible wildlife and cultures. Through our ethical tourism approach and commitment to our 'Big Five' Pillars , we ensure that your visit benefits local communities and preserves the natural beauty of the destinations you explore.

WE BELIEVE IN VALUE

At Bench Africa, we go above and beyond to offer unbeatable value to our clients. Drawing on our extensive first-hand experience and longstanding supplier relationships, we provide insightful advice that ensures you get the most out of your African adventure, and our quality of service and expertise makes our value for money very hard to beat.

OUR COMMITMENT TO YOU

Bench Africa has the experience and knowledge of Africa to ensure that any holiday booked with us exceeds your expectations! We have designed tailor-made itineraries for thousands of very happy clients over the years because we understand that this may be your ‘once-in-a-lifetime' dream to travel to Africa. It is our job to ensure that it is everything you dreamed it could be... and more.

Don't just take our word for it... make sure you take a peek at our independent customer reviews on Trustpilot.

We look forward to helping you choose the African experience that suits you , whether you've been before or are going for the very first time.

All Part of the Bench Africa Service

Expert Consultation

Bench Africa offers a no-obligation, fully personalised, valuable and friendly consultation with one of our Africa experts who will tailor-make a specialised itinerary to suit you and your requirements.

From flights to accommodation, tours and transfers to a range of exciting activities, we offer a one-stop-shop for booking your Africa adventures. We aim to exceed every expectation.

Documentation

We send out your personalised safari documentation for you to take on your travels. These little touches make your safari experience even more special, and your documents are the perfect keepsake!

24/7 Support While Travelling

We have offices in South Africa and Kenya and a 24-hour Bench Africa Emergency Support Desk in Australia. We are with you every step of the way until you land safely back in your home country.

The History of Bench Africa - The Experts in Africa Travel

The story began when Charles Bench arrived in Australia in 1969 to play tennis while taking a break from his duties as Sales Manager for South African Airways in London. During his visit, Charles discovered a surprising gap in the market. He realised that Australians were not yet travelling to Africa. So driven by his passion for the continent, Charles made a life-changing decision. In March 1969, he took a bold leap and established the very first Africa travel company in Australia - Bench Africa, known then as Bench International.

Interest in South Africa exploded in the '70s. For the next 38 years, the company grew from strength to strength with Charles at the helm surrounding himself with a strong team of Africa travel specialists sharing his passion for Africa and cementing Bench's reputation for being the "Africa Experts".

When Charles retired in 2007, Bench Africa experienced a change in ownership, marking a new chapter for the company. Southern Cross Safaris, a highly respected Kenya-based ground operator renowned for delivering exceptional safari experiences, acquired Bench Africa. At the helm, another sportsman, Mike Kirkland, a celebrated Kenyan rally driver famous for his successful rallying career in the 1970s and 1980s. Driven by his passion for adventure and profound connection to the African continent, Mike's legacy extends beyond motorsport as he established a portfolio of Africa travel businesses across three countries and two continents. The strategic union between Bench Africa's expertise and Southern Cross Safaris' on-the-ground experience has solidified Bench Africa's standing as a trusted leader in the Africa safari industry.

Charles Bench lives on, not only in name but in the very fabric of our being at Bench Africa, and his principles of ' an in-depth knowledge and passion for Africa ' will never change. His values are the foundation of our exceptional service, ensuring that every aspect of your experience reflects our profound understanding and love for this remarkable continent.

See what our customers say on Trustpilot .

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Meet the Team

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Julie De Palo

Lara behrens, maria hindson, stephanie osorio, brett palser, graham werner, login to your bucket list, we'll save your bucket list for future reference, or connect using, create your bucket list, reset your password, enter your new password to reset it, where would you like to go.

THE SAFARI GUIDE MAGAZINE

If you care about our planet, if you’re desperate to get off the beaten track, if you want to mingle with the locals or just experience ‘the extraordinary’ in Africa then The Safari Guide has it all.

To read the latest issue of The Safari Guide you can download our app.either on your iphone or android mobile device.