Africa Exclusive

20/01/2024

Lolebezi, Zambia wins the Conde Nast Gold List for 2024 for Africa.
A Wild, Remote & Luxurious Experience on the Mighty Zambezi River

Read more www.cntraveller.com/gallery/best-hotels-in-middle-east-africa-2024

17/01/2024

Africa Exclusive is now called Journeysmiths
The end of 2023 saw Africa Exclusive become Journeysmiths, as we took the final step on a journey to unite our destinations around the world under one brand. We will continue to share specialist advice and safari inspiration on our new page https://www.facebook.com/Journeysmiths.
We look forward to connecting with you there!

You may already know that alongside African safaris, we have been designing bespoke holidays to other remarkable destinations for over 25 years. The name Journeysmiths recognises that diversification, but rest assured it is our same passionate and knowledgeable team.

Our love of Africa continues to burn bright, but as we broaden our own travel experiences and welcome new team members you are just as likely to find one of us designing a trip to South America or Asia or the Polar regions as well as Africa.

Africa Exclusive began back in 1990, born from our founders’ passion for an incredible continent, but our love for exploring wild places doesn’t stop there. There’s an entire planet waiting to be discovered and we can’t wait to show you what’s possible

20/11/2023

Enjoyed Planet Earth 3 Series episode on Forests?

How can you see chimpanzees in the wild?

Greystoke Mahale
This is fairy tale land. Blue mountains fall into a crystal-clear lake that is as big as an ocean but without the salt! Tropical forests are filled with a thousand butterflies, hanging vines and waterfalls. And as if there wasn’t enough, there are your ‘long-lost cousins’ to run into – out of an estimated 1,000 chimpanzees in the national park, a group of 60 are totally accustomed to human presence and simply carry on their lives while you sit among them.

Read More on Chimpanzee Tracking in Tanzania
https://safari.co.uk/post/accommodation/greystoke-mahale-mahale-mountains-tanzania/

16/11/2023

On the road to Journeysmiths - Africa Exclusive to become Journeysmiths

Our company journey began in Africa in 1990, but what you may not know is that for the last 20 years our experienced team have been connecting our clients with over 50 remarkable destinations around the world.

To reflect this increasing diversity, our founding brand Africa Exclusive will move into the new year as Journeysmiths. This development acknowledges the breadth of our passion for, and knowledge of the world’s wild places. As Journeysmiths we are continually pushing boundaries in our quest to discover extraordinary travel experiences for you.

Who are Journeysmiths?
An experienced team of well-travelled individuals, passionate about crafting journeys that are as exceptional as they are personal, while maximising our positive impact on the places in which we work.

What does the name mean?
A Journeysmith is an expert in their craft, using their wealth of knowledge and experience to create truly bespoke travel experiences for clients who seek the extraordinary.

What does the change mean for you?
Travel experts on hand to create your perfect journey to explore the world’s wild places
- Continued travel inspiration for private tailor made safaris to Africa
- Access to insider tips and expert advice on private, tailormade travel to Latin America, Asia and the Polar regions
- From December a dynamic new website

Your questions answered
https://safari.co.uk/page/on-the-road-to-journeysmiths-questions-answered/

Remember to follow the Journeysmiths social media accounts
https://twitter.com/journeysmiths
https://www.facebook.com/Journeysmiths
https://www.instagram.com/journeysmiths/

15/11/2023

Steve Backshall back stage with the Journeysmith's team last night at Steve's Autumn Ocean Theatre Tour in Northampton. Steve kindly posed for a photo with Laura Burdett-Munns, Ross Cambray and Rory Wood.

Steve Backshall recently took his son for a 5th Birthday celebration trip and his son's first safari to Kenya.

Read Steve's Kenyan Father and Son Trip bit.ly/SteveBackshallSafari

Steve Backshall www.stevebackshall.com

26/10/2023

Mountain gorillas of Rwanda, Uganda and Congo!

- Approx. 1,000 exist in the wild in two isolated groups, one in the Virunga Volcanoes National Parks (Rwanda, Uganda and Congo) and the other in Bwindi National Park (Uganda).

- We share 98% of our DNA with them!

- An average silverback can weigh up to 180kg and measure over 170cm tall on all fours.

- They are incredibly social, typically living in stable family groups of around 10 with one dominant male and several females, all of which can live up to 40 years old!

- They are under threat from human activity. That’s why we work with partners who ensure tourism activity has as minimal impact as possible with a portion of the cost going towards the continued protection of their unique habitats. Our partners also work closely with local communities and support them where necessary with a ‘bed night’ contribution.

Get in touch with our experts today to find out how you can see mountain gorillas in the wild!

21/10/2023

Journeysmiths has been crafting unique, inspiring trips to the world’s wild places for over 30 years and has now launched a brand new way of seeing the natural world in their Small Group, Big Impact travel series. These trips go behind the scenes of cutting-edge conservation initiatives where profits are invested.

For January/February 2024, Journeysmiths has harnessed its long-standing partnerships in sustainable private travel, luxury camps and lodges and conservation changemakers to create a safari reimagined:

The 2024 Kenya Safari for Conservation.

Highlights:
Kenya's Elusive Black Leopard
Spend an afternoon searching for the rare black leopards of Laikipia with the very researchers who rediscovered them, having not been seen for almost 100 years in Africa. A sighting like no other.

The Home of Some of Africa's Rarest Wildlife
Meet the anti-poaching dog unit that protects the unique wildlife of Loisaba Conservancy. Listen to the latest about the conservancies’ impressive ongoing rhino relocation project over sundowners.

The Big Tuskers of Kitirua
Join bushwalks and night game drives to discover the rare 'big tusker' elephants of Kitirua & Amboseli, guided by the rangers that protect them from the plight of poaching.

Big Cats of the Masai Mara
Enjoy a game drive like no other in the company of Big Cat researchers in the Masai Mara – learn about the cutting-edge technology used to uncover the mysteries of Big Cat social dynamics.

- Travel dates: 30th January - 8th February 2024
- Length of journey: 10 days
- Small group: Only six places available
- Price: £10,000 per person, including private transfer flights in Kenya - not international flights.

Read more about the 2024 Kenya Safari for Conservation https://bit.ly/KenyaConservationSafari

Watch Vimeo presentation with Tom Silvester CEO of Loisaba, and Rory - Head of Sustainability, who will be hosting this limited edition trip. https://vimeo.com/africaexclusive/kenyaconservation2024

Journeysmiths has created a new series of Small Group, Big Impact itineraries exploring conservation in the world's wildest places.

16/10/2023

Rwanda’s Akagera National Park is a success story of modern conservation. Over the last 13 years, wildlife has been reintroduced and the more recent arrival of rhino has now made Akagera a Big Five destination!

Activities:
Game drives, walking safaris & boat safaris.

Where to stay:
Magashi Camp. With just eight huge rooms set on raised decks overlooking the stunning Lake Rwanyakazinga, this is the perfect place to explore the National Park.

When to go:
Rwanda’s dry season, between June and September, sees warm but comfortable temperatures and little rain, making this a great time for a safari here.

25/08/2023

The pangolin is the world’s most trafficked mammal and seeing one of these scaly creatures in its natural habitat is not only fascinating, but a privilege.

At Phinda Private Game Reserve, South Africa, you can join a researcher from the specialist conservation team as they work to reintroduce pangolin to an area where they were previously extinct.

Learn more about their distinctive characteristics and adaptations, watch a health check and learn how their tags track and provide specialist data.

Speak to our experts to find out how to encounter the highly endangered pangolin and contribute to their protection!

18/08/2023

📢 Attention luxury connoisseurs and wildlife enthusiasts! 🐘 Unforgettable Elephant Encounters in Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe! 🌿

Calling all those with a taste for opulent travel experiences! Are you ready to embark on an extraordinary adventure like no other? Join us on an exclusive safari in Hwange National Park, where majestic elephants roam freely, gifting you with cherished moments that redefine luxury. 📸✨

🐾 Envision this: You find yourself on an exhilarating game drive, surrounded by vast landscapes and painted sunsets. Suddenly, a gentle giant emerges from the lush African bush, its graceful form approaching closer. Feel your heart skip a beat as you witness these awe-inspiring creatures in their natural domain. 🌍

🌟 But wait, there's more! Picture yourself at a hidden hide, strategically positioned for an intimate encounter with these magnificent beings. In the tranquil seclusion of the hide, you'll observe their playful interactions, their commanding presence, and their remarkable intellect. It's a truly enchanting experience reserved for the most discerning of travellers. 🎥🍃

🏞️ And the enchantment continues as you unwind on the veranda of your lavish tent or the deck of your safari camp. Like a scene from a wildlife documentary, elephants gracefully approach, seemingly undisturbed by your presence. Experience the ground vibrate beneath you as these gentle giants pass by, leaving you captivated by their elegance and magnificence. 🌅

🌿 We extend this invitation to embark on a safari that transcends imagination, where unforgettable encounters with elephants await. Our curated experiences cater to individuals who seek the epitome of luxury. With our expert guides and sumptuous accommodations, every moment is meticulously designed to fulfill your desires, crafting memories that will eternally resonate. 💫

📣 Are you prepared to witness the grandeur of Hwange National Park? Share this post, tag your fellow adventurers, and let's transform your wildest safari dreams into a reality! 🐘✨

25/07/2023

The pangolin is the world’s most trafficked mammal and seeing one of these scaly creatures in its natural habitat is not only fascinating, but a privilege.

At Phinda Private Game Reserve you can join a researcher from the specialist conservation team as they work to reintroduce pangolin to an area where they were previously extinct.

Learn more about their distinctive characteristics and adaptations, watch a health check and learn how their tags track and provide specialist data.

Get in touch with our travel experts today to get involved with on-the-ground pangolin conservation!

20/07/2023

Wanting to witness the beauty of an African safari with your children?

Look no further, here are our favourite properties to explore the Kenyan wilderness with your young ones…

House in the Wild:
This family run property comprises a luxury lodge and exclusive use houses that promise a home from home for all the family. Here, children are free to roam and explore the natural environment. You’ll have a private vehicle, meaning you can discover the wildlife of the Masai Mara according to your schedule, and a dedicated guide, passionate about helping children learn about the bush. When you’re not out exploring by vehicle there is plenty to experience: guided nature walks, mountain biking, tree planting, visiting the nearby rhino sanctuary, croquet, tennis and so much more.

Sarara Camp
This luxury tented camp in the remote Mathews Mountains is the perfect place for an authentic safari experience. There are activities galore at Sarara, making it ideal for children. Explore on foot (with a packed bush breakfast!) or on horseback with the camp’s bush ponies. Visit the Reteti Elephant Sanctuary, spend time in a local village and even experience the ancient Samburu tradition of the Singing Wells. The camp’s waterhole is frequented by Kenya’s iconic wildlife, including elephant, providing magical, close-up encounters on your doorstep.

06/06/2023

Do you want to discover Kenya's best kept secrets? 🦒🐘🦁

Join us for a relaxed and inspirational evening on Thursday 8th June at 6pm - 7pm BST where we will focus on revealing Kenya’s hidden treasures.

• Embark on a journey with Managing Director, Laura, and Senior Travel Designer, Ross, as we share top insider travel tips

• Discover the beauty of Kenya’s luscious green season

• Be transported to remote corners of lesser-known Kenya

• Explore some of the most luxurious and intimate safari lodges across the country

• Ask your questions and receive advice from experts with first-hand experience

• Gain access to an exclusive Kenya offer

In collaboration with 🇰🇪

Register your space by clicking the link:

https://1a9b23-605f.icpage.net/ktb-kenya-webinar---june-2023

22/05/2023

Africa Exclusive travel designer Ross has now touched down in Namibia ✈️✨

A land of natural wonders, from the iconic red sand dunes of Sossusvlei to the dramatic Skeleton Coast. A place steeped in culture, unique traditions and customs. A country bursting with wildlife, from elephant, lion, giraffe, cheetah and plenty more. A haven for adventure-enthusiasts, with opportunities for epic hiking, wilderness camping and sandboarding.

We can’t wait to see some of Ross’ photos and videos from this incredible destination! Follow along to see the best of Namibia!

09/03/2023

Are you ready for incredible wildlife encounters around the world?

In late 2023 we will merge our two brands, Africa Exclusive and Journeysmiths. Africa will always hold a special place in our hearts, but this decision supports your wanderlust for new destinations and confirms our increasing commitment to other parts of the world where there are similarly spectacular natural environments and wildlife to be discovered.

For more info read our blog: https://safari.co.uk/post/blog/africa-exclusive-on-the-road-to-journeysmiths/

For inspiring travel to the best wild places, unique experiences and expert travel tips make sure you sign up to our monthly Journeysmiths e-newsletter by visiting the website: https://journeysmiths.co.uk/

And follow us on:

https://www.instagram.com/journeysmiths/
https://www.facebook.com/Journeysmiths

The journey continues.

07/02/2023

The diversity of Kenya’s wildlife-filled national parks and huge network of private wildlife conservancies makes it a superb destination for a family safari as each day you set off on a new and exciting shared adventure.

A safari can be tiring when travelling with children, so we help you choose the right safari properties that will keep your family entertained. Some of the most memorable experiences to have are:

🛶Kayaking within metres of a herd of elephant from Ekorian’s Mugie
💃🏿Joining in traditional Maasai dancing around the fire at Sanctuary at Ol Lentille
🦏 Walking just metres from white rhino at Saruni Wild
📸Honing our wildlife photography skills at Mara Nyika
🏹 Learning traditional Maasai beading and archery at Angama Mara

From one parent to another, Laura, Journeysmiths Managing Director, shares her favourite lodges and camps that will enhance your family safari, with the top tips on what really matters to young children on a Kenya safari. Click the link in our bio to read the full blog.

06/02/2023

Nothing but the sounds of nature🔊🐘

Simon Parker 's article “Forget Vic Falls, visit the (much quieter) Lower Zambezi instead (Zambia)” in The Telegraph is now live!

Simon joined our non-profit Zambezi Expedition in 2022 where he had this incredible encounter with a herd of playful elephants along the mighty Zambezi River.

Follow the link to read the article

https://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/safaris-and-wildlife/how-mindful-safari-helped-calm-frazzled-brain/

Chiawa Safaris

03/02/2023

With a huge help from our generous clients, we managed to raise a whopping £10,000 for the Northampton Saints Foundation through our non-profit Zambezi Expedition last year.

To find out how the foundation will use the donation to benefit children throughout Northamptonshire, follow the links below.

https://www.northamptonchron.co.uk/news/people/africa-expedition-puts-northampton-charity-firmly-in-the-driving-seat-3999722

https://www.lovebusinesseastmidlands.com/love-business-news/2023/01/24/africa-expedition-puts-northampton-charity-in-the-driving-seat/

https://www.northants-chamber.co.uk/news/africa-expedition-puts-northampton-charity-in-the-driving-seat

https://nnbn.co.uk/africa-expedition-puts-northampton-charity-in-the-driving-seat/

31/01/2023

International Zebra Day 2023 🦓

There are three species of zebra; plains, mountain and Grevy’s.

The long-legged, Grevy’s zebra is known for its striking, tall appearance, thin stripes and elegant gait. However hunting and poaching has drastically reduced the population over the years making the Grevy’s zebra endangered. Today, Kenya is now home to just 2,350 Grevy’s zebras, 90% of the world’s population.

The Lewa Wildlife Conservancy in northern Kenya, plays a vital role in the conservation of these beautiful animals, and any guests on safari in this breath-taking conservancy will directly contribute toward their ongoing conservation efforts.

Africa Exclusive can take you there.

24/01/2023

✨✨ Positive Impact Partners ✨✨

The theme of the United Nations International Day of Education this year is “to invest in people, prioritise education”. So today, we are shining a light on Angama's efforts to build a sustainable future in Kenya by supporting local schools.

🏫There are several schools in the vicinity of the property, all of which are at different stages of development. The Angama Foundation has structured its support in order to improve the general level of education offered in the area.

🛠️They do this by developing and implementing scalable programmes and by supporting specific projects.

🎒In time, the Foundation will explore early development centres for children under six years of age, as well as adult literacy and education programmes.

💸Each guest at Angama Mara contributes a US$10 per night donation to the Angama Foundation supporting their positive impact projects!

05/01/2023

✨The Great Migration ✨

Picture, if you can, a million wildebeest on the move. They are accompanied by several hundred thousand Thomson’s gazelle and zebra, and in their wake come big cats and other predators, ready to pounce. The great migration is the most impressive wildlife spectacle on Earth!

Between June and October two million wildebeest, zebra and antelope gather on the Serengeti-Masai Mara ecosystem, straddling the border between Tanzania and Kenya.

We can place you in a small luxury camp with expert guides close to the action! Watch the herds crashing into crocodile infested rivers, running the gauntlet of big cats and grazing peacefully on the beautiful plains.

Our top tips:
🚙 Book a private guide and vehicle for complete flexibility on your game drives
⛺ Stay in a private concession for a better chance of viewing without hordes of other vehicles
📞 Talk to our team about mobile migration camps and river crossings

Want to experience the Great Migration in 2023? Get in touch with our expert Journeysmiths today.

04/01/2023

✨ A day on safari in Botswana ✨

Imagine soaring over the expansive oasis of the Okavango Delta by helicopter, discovering the maze of fleeting and permanent waterways by traditional dugout canoe or cantering on horseback alongside herds of plains game. This is what a day on safari looks like.

Rise with the sun for an early morning guided bush walk to the soundtrack of the waking calls of Botswana’s wildlife 🐘

Ward off the heat of the day with a dip in your private plunge pool 🏊

It’s afternoon tea at 3pm then an exhilarating game drive for wildlife spotting 🚙

Unwind with cocktails at sundown and dinner under a starry African sky 🍹

If a luxury safari across Botswana is on your list, get in touch with our travel designers today who are ready to craft your perfect trip.

25/12/2022

What a year of transition 2022 has been. We began with international travel uncertainty, yet just a few months later saw record numbers of you departing on long-awaited adventures. In May, we finally set off on our non-profit expedition along the Zambezi River, raising over £30,000 for our three charities, and our team continued their travels in search of new and exciting experiences.

In 2023 we will merge our two brands, Africa Exclusive and Journeysmiths. Africa will always hold a special place in our hearts, but this decision supports your wanderlust for new destinations and confirms our increasing commitment to other parts of the world where there are similarly spectacular natural environments and wildlife to be discovered.

For inspirational, luxury travel to all the world’s wild places, please also follow on Instagram and Facebook.

I wish you all a joyful festive season and a healthy and happy 2023.

Laura

23/12/2022

✨✨ Positive Impact Partners ✨✨

Meet one of our charity partners - Ripple Effect (formerly Send a Cow) ✨

Who are they? 🌱
Ripple Effect is a partnership of experienced and committed staff working with farming families in Africa. Together, they create a ripple effect of positive and sustainable change that grows and grows.

What is their vision? 🌍
To inspire and equip African communities to transform lives and protect the planet.

How to get involved ✈️
We donate 5% of our net annual profit to our charity partners. This means that, when booking a holiday with us, you are directly contributing to a sustainable future!

How to donate 💸
Head over to Ripple Effect and hit the link in their bio!

12/12/2022

✨✨ Positive Impact Partners ✨✨

Using tourism as a force for good is part of ’s DNA. They support multiple projects in Tanzania and Kenya from community development to conservation implementation.

Their vision is to empower the crucial wilderness areas in East Africa, benefitting local people and nature alike.

recently visited two of Asilia’s Serengeti-based camps and had the opportunity to hear from Kelvin, project manager of the Cheetah Conservation Initiative (CCI). Supported by Asilia, the CCI is dedicated to monitoring cheetah activity in the Serengeti ecosystem with the sole purpose of protecting this fragile species.

07/12/2022

✨✨ Traveller Tales ✨✨

Friends, Polly, Angus, Mike and Dee have recently returned from their latest adventures in Botswana and Namibia. Here is what they had to say;

“The return to Africa was all we’d hoped for. Thank you for organising such a well structured trip. Every day held something magical, from elephants in the breakfast area to an astonishing balloon ride above the desert. ...Everything was absolutely spot on; beautiful food; lovely rooms, and superb guides. The animal life was tremendous! The little planes were exciting….gosh we covered some distances. The thing I noticed about this trip was that the guides were very much more in evidence whilst not on drives, and went out of their way to share meals and be available to us ….we really felt we got to know them, and that was lovely.
It was a fabulous whirlwind of a trip! We’re tired out and have many wonderful memories!”

If an exciting African safari is on your list, get in touch! Our safari designers will be happy to share their in-depth knowledge and expertise with you!

04/12/2022

Last chance to enter for your chance to win this Nikon camera bundle! 📷

✨✨✨ WIN A NIKON DIGITAL CAMERA BUNDLE! ✨✨✨

In 2023, Africa Exclusive will be merging with sister company Journeysmiths offering handcrafted, extraordinary private holidays to Africa, Asia, Indian Ocean, Latin America, and the Polar Caps.

Our passionate team of Journeysmiths match your dreams and wishes with their knowledge and experience of the world's wild places. The outcome is a trip of a lifetime every time, with a journey as unique as you.

To mark the occasion, we are offering you the chance to win a fantastic Nikon COOLPIX B500 Digital Camera with accessory bundle worth over £350 to capture those wild travel moments!

To be in the running, all you need to do is;

Visit our Journeysmiths Instagram account https://www.instagram.com/journeysmiths/
Follow
Tag your travel buddy
Sign up to the Journeysmiths newsletter – www.journeysmiths.co.uk/contact-us/

The draw will take place on 5th December 2022 and one lucky winner will be sent this very cool prize which includes:
💥Nikon COOLPIX B500 Digital Camera (Black)
💥 SanDisk Ultra 64GB SDXC Memory Card
💥 8 Flexible Gripster Tripod
💥 Wireless Shutter Remote
💥 Padded Wrist/Hand Strap
💥 High Speed Memory Card Reader
💥 Memory Card Wallet
💥 Carrying Case (Medium)
💥 Micro HDMI to HDMI Cable
💥 Lens Cap Keeper
💥 Lens Cleaning Pen
💥 Dust Blower
💥 Microfiber Cleaning Cloth



* To enter this giveaway, make sure you complete all three requirements listed above * Entries will close on 4th December at 11pm (GMT) and the winner will be selected at random * You must be over the age of 18 to enter * This giveaway is in no way affiliated, sponsored or administered by Instagram*

Good luck!

04/12/2022

✨✨ International Cheetah Day ✨✨

Today is International Cheetah Day.
Since 1900, the wild cheetah population has decreased by over 90%. There are now approximately 7,000 cheetahs in the wild. The cheetah is racing against extinction!

Did you know:
🐾 Cheetahs can accelerate to 110kph in approx. 3 seconds, quicker than most sports cars
🐾 Namibia is known as the Cheetah Capital of the World thanks to the country's farmers
🐾 The cheetah is the only big cat that purrs!

25/11/2022

✨✨ World Safari Day ✨✨

Today is World Safari Day - a celebration of Africa’s Wildlife and People.

For over 30 years we have been creating private safaris to the timeless savannahs of Africa. We have navigated the Zambezi, explored the Namib and traversed the Serengeti. We have stayed in extraordinary safari lodges. We know the finest guides.

To celebrate we wanted to share some photos from our team’s travels to this extraordinary continent.

Ready for your own life-changing adventure? Contact the team today.

24/11/2022

✨✨ Happy Thanksgiving ✨✨

The protection of wildlife is a year round commitment, with no days off.

As Thanksgiving is a time for reflection, we would like to give thanks to all the conservation efforts around the world which tirelessly work to protect our endangered species.

One special example is Saruni Rhino camp located in the Sera Community Conservancy in Kenya; the first community owned rhino sanctuary in Africa. In 2015, black rhino were successfully reintroduced into the fenced, maximum protection sanctuary offering the endangered species a chance to flourish.

A pioneering walking safari, first of its kind in East Africa then followed, providing a unique and exhilarating adventure whilst also allowing guests to actively contribute to the protection of this iconic species. Tracking black rhino on foot, accompanied by an expert Saruni guide and a highly-trained Sera Community Conservancy ranger in safety, has created work for the local community alongside a conservation success story.

Thank you Saruni Rhino!

Happy Thanksgiving ! Enjoy your day with family and friends.

Saruni lodges