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 over 25 years our experienced team have been also 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.