Matson & Ridley Safaris

Matson & Ridley Safaris Matson & Ridley Safaris is an ethical travel company specialising in life changing journeys in Africa

Co-founded by zoologist and author, Dr Tammie Matson, and Earth Hour co-founder Andy Ridley, Matson & Ridley Safaris provides life changing journeys that make a difference. After decades of working in conservation in Africa, Asia and Australia, seeing that some of the best examples of community-based conservation come from ethical safari operations in Africa, Tammie and Andy set up this business t

o focus their efforts where they truly feel they can make a difference. With the world's wildlife in increasing peril due to conflict with people, habitat loss and poaching, never has there been a greater need to show people the wonders of Africa's natural environments and, through ethical tourism, to contribute to its conservation. Tammie organises bespoke safaris that benefit local people and wildlife, as well as leading several safaris every year herself. Tammie's safaris are intimate, exclusive safaris in the best wildlife areas with other like-minded individuals, along with your own personal zoologist. They are as life changing to the people on the journeys as they are to those they benefit in Africa.

14/08/2026

There's something about an elephant encounter that makes the bush feel very small and very big at the same time.

Watching a herd move together, seeing the young ones protected in the middle, or simply sitting quietly as they pass reminds you that you're witnessing something much bigger than a wildlife sighting.

Elephants are essential to the ecosystems they inhabit, shaping landscapes and creating opportunities for countless other species.

Protecting them isn't simply about saving an iconic animal. It's about protecting the intricate web of life around them.

And that's something worth celebrating every day. 🐘

31/07/2026

Rich because... you return home with a greater appreciation for the people, traditions, and stories that make Africa so extraordinary.

A safari isn't only about the wildlife you encounter. Some of the most memorable moments come from taking the time to connect with local communities, learning about their way of life, and sharing experiences that leave a lasting impression.

These cultural visits aren't performances, they're opportunities for genuine exchange, where travel becomes richer through understanding and respect.

Because the most meaningful journeys don't just change where you've been.

They change how you see the world.

The Okavango Delta is unlike anywhere else on Earth.Every year, floodwaters make an incredible journey from the Angolan ...
24/07/2026

The Okavango Delta is unlike anywhere else on Earth.

Every year, floodwaters make an incredible journey from the Angolan Highlands before spreading across northern Botswana, breathing life into one of Africa's most extraordinary ecosystems.

This year, those floodwaters have been particularly impressive, creating an incredible surge of life.

For travellers joining us in June 2027, that's exciting news. I've shared more about what a high-water season means, and why I'm so excited for our Botswana Group Safari in this week's blog.

We now have just one room remaining on our June 2027 Botswana Group Safari. If you've been dreaming of experiencing the Okavango at its finest, I'd love for you to join us.

Read the blog via the link below, or get in touch to learn more about the final available place.

https://matsonridley.com/blog/the-okavango-is-flooding-and-why-thats-extraordinary-news-for-2027/

Images courtesy of David Longmuir & Siobhan Hey Botswana, June 2026.

Meet the African wild dog, also known as the painted wolf. Critically endangered, this is one of the world's rarest pred...
10/07/2026

Meet the African wild dog, also known as the painted wolf. Critically endangered, this is one of the world's rarest predators.

Fewer than 6,000 remain in the wild. And yet a wild dog encounter is consistently rated among the most thrilling wildlife experiences in Africa. Fast, intelligent, and fiercely devoted, the entire pack raises the pups together.

June to August is denning season in Botswana. You probably won't see the pups yet, as they're tiny and hidden deep in the den, but watching the pack hunt together to feed the alpha female is something else entirely.
June is also the sweet spot for a Botswana safari - dry season begins, the Okavango floodwaters arrive, and prices are lower than peak season.

If Botswana is calling you we have limited spaces available on our hosted safari in June 2027. Contact us at the link in our bio.

03/07/2026

You. A cheetah. Nothing else. 🐆

No commentary needed for this one, just turn your sound on and watch.

This is what the Serengeti feels like when everything goes quiet. Wind, birdsong, and a cheetah doing exactly as he pleases.

Moments like this are why we do what we do. 🌍

If Africa is calling you, we'd love to help you answer it.

What an awesome safari in Tanzania!Going on safari in green season is definitely worth considering for the lower prices,...
26/06/2026

What an awesome safari in Tanzania!
Going on safari in green season is definitely worth considering for the lower prices, tourist numbers and overall experience. There’s nothing like being in Africa when the grasses are green and there’s new baby animals bounding about.
Here’s our highlights reel.

Enjoy the videos and music you love, upload original content, and share it all with friends, family, and the world on YouTube.

Highlights from Tammie’s group safari in Tanzania’s Serengeti and Ngorongoro crater. Yes it really is this incredible. h...
26/06/2026

Highlights from Tammie’s group safari in Tanzania’s Serengeti and Ngorongoro crater. Yes it really is this incredible.

https://youtube.com/shorts/M419xbB20Q8?feature=shared

Zena Suzanne Janet Eliza Meredith Robyn

Enjoy the videos and music you love, upload original content, and share it all with friends, family, and the world on YouTube.

Two ways to experience Africa: join a group safari or travel independently on a safari we curate. Both incredible option...
26/06/2026

Two ways to experience Africa: join a group safari or travel independently on a safari we curate.

Both incredible options. One just might suit you better than the other.

Head to the blog to find out which, here https://matsonridley.com/blog/hosted-or-independent-finding-your-safari-style/

And if Botswana 2027 is already calling your name, get in touch. Limited spaces available. 🌍

Every safari tells a different story, which is why no two itineraries we create are ever quite the same.Thank you, Russe...
13/06/2026

Every safari tells a different story, which is why no two itineraries we create are ever quite the same.

Thank you, Russel, for your kind words and for allowing us to be part of such a special journey.

Reviews like this remind us why we love what we do.

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Cairns, QLD
4870

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