How to Identify a True Africa Expert
The landscape of travel accolades can be confusing. To ensure you are booking with a true expert, we maintain specific, high-value accolades, certifications, and memberships that require rigorous vetting. Here is what we bring to the table.
1. The “Big Three” Media Accolades
These are the most prestigious consumer-facing awards. They are not pay-to-play; our agents are vetted by editors and demonstrate deep regional knowledge.
Condé Nast Traveler “Top Travel Specialist”
We are listed specifically under the Africa or Safari category. This is arguably the gold standard for luxury expertise.
Travel + Leisure “A-List”
This list is highly curated. Our presence here signifies we have been vetted for our specific niche, such as Family Safaris or Southern Africa.
Wendy Perrin’s “WOW List”
We are subject to intense scrutiny and ongoing review based on traveler feedback to remain on this respected consumer advocate list.
3. Proud Members of Signature Travel Network
If you are looking for a luxury experience, including 5-star lodges and private charters, our affiliation with this prestigious network is your greatest asset.
Your Exclusive Benefits:
Because of our preferred partner status, you receive perks that standard booking channels cannot offer, including:
- Complimentary Room Upgrades
- Daily Breakfast for Two
- Spa Credits & Dining Perks
- Exclusive VIP Access
“Our rigorous standards align with Signature Travel Network requirements, ensuring your investment is protected and your experience is exceptional.”
2. Critical Industry Memberships (The Inner Circle)
Membership in these organizations signifies that we have direct relationships with ground operators in Africa and are committed to continuous education.
APTA (Association for the Promotion of Tourism to Africa)
The key trade organization for North American agents. Active membership shows we are plugged into the specific logistics of African travel, not just general travel.
Safari Pros
An exclusive consortium of independent safari consultants. Members are strictly vetted and must be true specialists selling mostly Africa rather than generalist agents.
ATTA (African Travel and Tourism Association)
The primary trade association for the African tourism industry. Our membership proves we are serious about our direct connections to camps and lodges.
These certifications represent a baseline of committed learning and official recognition by African tourism boards:
- KATS: Kenya Authorized Travel Specialist
- SA Specialist: South Africa Tourism Board
- Fundi Specialist: Tanzania Tourism
We can tell you exactly when we were last in Africa. A true expert travels there at least once a year to inspect lodges and check logistics personally.
We do not rely on generic Best Global Agent awards or local newspaper Best Travel Agency badges, which often signify volume sales in cruises or theme parks rather than complex African itinerary expertise.
Our Most Requested Luxury Journeys
From the mist-covered mountains of Rwanda to the private granite kopjes of the Serengeti, these are the top-tier experiences our clients book most frequently. As specialists, we hold exclusive access to these high-demand itineraries.
Signature Multi-Country Circuits
Cape Town, Kruger & Victoria Falls
12-14 Days | South Africa, Zimbabwe/Zambia
Our #1 best-selling route. Combines the cosmopolitan luxury of Cape Town, Big 5 game viewing in a private Sabi Sand concession, and the thunder of Victoria Falls.
- Private Winelands Tours
- Sabi Sand “Leopard” Country
- Zambezi River Sunset Cruise
Kenya & Tanzania “SkySafari”
10-12 Days | Serengeti & Masai Mara
Witness the Great Migration from the best seat in the house. We utilize executive class scenic flights between camps to maximize your time with the wildlife.
- Hemingway-style Tented Camps
- Hot Air Balloon Safari Included
- Ngorongoro Crater Descent
Best of Botswana & Namibia
12 Days | Okavango, Chobe, Sossusvlei
For the exclusive traveler. Explore the crystal clear waterways of the Okavango Delta followed by the hauntingly beautiful red dunes of the Namib Desert.
- Premier “Star Bed” Sleep-outs
- Private Air Charters
- Meerkat Encounters
Once-in-a-Lifetime Encounters
The “Bush & Beach” Finale
Don’t end your safari at the airport. 80% of our clients extend their trip to the Indian Ocean.
After the early mornings of the safari, we whisk you away to the pristine white sands of: