Alice Gully, the owner of Aardvark Safaris, has been involved in African travel since 1995. Her interest in all things African started with a zoology degree at Newcastle where her entomology tutor inspired with stories of exotic creatures that could only be found in Africa. When a second degree in vet science did not go according to plan, she fulfilled a dream by working in Zambia.  First, she helped set up a safari camp on Lake Kariba and undertook a small study on a family of seven elephants that shared her island. Next was a stint skippering catamarans on the Zimbabwean side of the lake where sailing along the wildlife filled shores of Matsuadona National Park still inspires wonderful memories.

Her last job was living the dream as a back-up guide for a riding safari in Hwange, Zimbabwe, which she describes as one of those few jobs where you forget it’s work, and where managing 28 horses and showing guests the wonders of Africa from horseback was pure joy.  She decided on her future career as an African tour operator before her return and now says that anything is possible in Africa if you know how.

Now married, and mother to three daughters, Alice runs the Scottish office.  Riding is still a big passion she competes and hunts when time allows.   Alice and husband Jim are keen hill walkers and love the outdoors, and on their African travels they are happiest on foot, in a canoe, or on horseback. She is also an experienced diver and counts the peaceful reefs of Mozambique as some of the best in the world. Her triplets got a taste of Africa at the age of two on a camel safari in Kenya with some time at the coast – never too young!  They are now nearly 12 and have been to Malawi, South Africa, Tanzania and Zanzibar, Malawi being the highlight.

In her many years organising holidays, Alice has travelled extensively through Africa, exploring some of the more off the beaten track safari areas as well as the better known.  Kenya remains an old favourite and she has returned six times, unable to resist the draw of all that’s on offer here.  Post children she’s also come to appreciate the value of R&R holidays in beach destinations like Mauritius and the Seychelles.  Of the countries Aardvark Safaris sells, it’s only Madagascar Alice has yet to explore, but it’s only a matter of time.

Favourite African experience

Too many to pick one, each time I travel something takes my breath away, the people, the endless scenery, the incredible wildlife. For pure wow factor, riding horses through the migration in the Masai Mara or flying in a private plane along the Skeleton Coast of Namibia.

Favourite animal

Other than giraffe (which I’d most like to come back as) it’s the little stuff like the insects and birds that enthral me. If you sit still in Africa, life is busy all around you, no matter where you are. Under the sea, in the ground or high in the trees, there is never a dull moment.

Favourite three camps

I love the small owner run camps where you feel as though you are staying with a friend. The host is your guide and looks after you in every way, they care how you feel and what you do, some of these camps (and owners) include PJ and Barney at Okavango Horse Safaris in Botswana, Kerry Glen at Karisia in Kenya, Ant and Tessa Baber at Ant’s Nest in South Africa, but there is a long list, not just three! Luwi Camp in the South Luangwa, Zambia is my desert island camp if there was only one last African trip.

Okavango Horse Safaris, Okavango Delta, Botswana

Camel safari, Kenya, Laikipia, Karisia Walking Safaris

Luxury safari accommodation Waterberg, South Africa, Ant’s Nest, Ant’s Collection

Hippos on a walking safari, South Luangwa, Zambia, Luwi Bushcamp

African countries visited

South Africa, Kenya, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Malawi, Tanzania, Mozambique, Namibia, Republic of Congo, Rwanda and Uganda

Tropical islands visited

Seychelles, Mauritius, Zanzibar

Riding experience

Wait A Little, Winelands, Tswalu, Ants Hill / Nest, Kurland, Grootbos, Horizon Horseback Safaris, African Horseback Safaris, Tuli Ride, Namibia Horse Safari Company. Offbeat Riding Safaris, Safaris Unlimited, Borana Lodge, Ol Malo, Sosian Lodge,

On arranging holidays

I pride myself on the fact that no two holidays I plan are the same. I enjoy really listening to what people want, before going to the drawing board to sketch out ideas. I believe in top end customer service, so no wedding anniversary goes unnoticed or dietary requirement is missed, and I will spend hours thinking about what could improve everybody’s experience – I want everyone to come home with the same warm fuzzy feeling about Africa that I have. As an experienced rider, I know what makes the difference between a good riding safari and an unforgettable one and will do my best to match riders to the most suitable horses and will always try to look after the non-riding spouse (I have one) as well as learner riders (like my three girls). As a mother I know the pitfalls of travelling with children and will do my utmost to choose the best camps and lodges to create a perfect family holiday – I’m proud to say my repeat and word of mouth business speaks for itself.

After qualifying as a Chartered Certified Accountant, Richard moved into industry and held a number of finance positions over a nine year stretch with Coca-Cola in London. Nine years hard work warranted an 18 month career break which took him on travels to Central America, Malaysia, Thailand, Borneo, China, Burma, Australia and Fiji. He worked for O2 in Slough on returning before deciding to look for a fresh challenge in a smaller, friendlier but equally dynamic working environment.

He arrived at Aardvark in December 2012 and, as Chief Operating Officer, is responsible to the board for accurate financial reporting and forecasting as well as providing support and supervision to the sales teams to ensure efficient operations.

When not working, Richard enjoys the gym and keeping fit during respites from the demands of a young family.

Travel enthusiast, hilarious dancer and expert multi-tasker. Katy comes with a wealth of marketing knowledge and expertise having worked in travel for almost 20 years. 

She studied Marketing in Edinburgh before joining The Travel Corporation’s family of multi-award winning coach tour operators. Having spent time on multiple brands operating throughout Europe and with global sales offices, Katy worked her way from an initial student placement as part of her studies to sales and marketing manager. Customer service focused, she has a “people first” attitude, a value that is at the heart of Aardvark Safaris.  

Her drive and passion for travel has also led to her being a founding member of the Edinburgh Chapter of the global ‘Travel Massive’ network which at its peak had over 600 members. This highly engaged community holds regular networking events for tourism professionals, travel media, influencers and start ups.  

Since her university days Katy has spent most of her spare time travelling. She has bamboo rafted and dived in Thailand, worked on the ski fields in New Zealand, fished for piranhas and hunted for anacondas in South America.   

She honeymooned in Mauritius and enjoyed a four night safari in the Klaserie Private Nature Reserve in South Africa. One of her most memorable experiences was watching a day old elephant calf take its first steps.   

When she is feeling slightly less adventurous, Katy enjoys baking and chilled weekends exploring her local bird reserve with her husband and six year old daughter Isla.   

African countries visited

South Africa, Kenya, Egypt

Tropical Islands visited

Mauritius

Jo joined Aardvark’s Scottish office in September 2006, fresh from two ski seasons. Jo’s passions include cooking, travelling, hiking and horse riding. She was a chalet manager in the Alps for two winter seasons, while the summers took her to the north of Scotland to cook for large house parties.  As a child, Jo was fully immersed in the Fife Hunt pony club, and also spent some time working with top eventers and racehorses. She also has a true love for animals, having grown up as a farmer’s daughter.

She put her cooking skills to good use on a two month sabbatical in Uganda and Rwanda where she was tasked with improving the food and sourcing new ingredients in some of the top lodges. A highlight of her time here was tracking mountain gorillas on three occasions – Jo is therefore an excellent person to talk to about holidays here as she can give you her own honest and unbiased advice.

In the intervening years Jo has travelled widely throughout Africa and the Indian Ocean and is now a senior sales consultant at Aardvark Safaris.  She has two young daughters and can’t wait to introduce them to the wonders of Africa when they are a little older.

Favourite African experiences

Sleeping in a hide on the Boteti River in Botswana. There were elephant splashing around in the river and two prides of lion roaring to each other from opposite banks. I didn’t sleep a wink, but it was one of the most thrilling nights of my life!

Making it to the summit of Kilimanjaro. Having that sense of satisfaction, whilst seeing the sun rise up through the clouds below, has to be one of the most magical things I’ve ever experienced.

Watching a pod of 50 dolphins swim in to try and help a seal who was being attacked by a sea lion, off a cliff on Robberg Island near Plettenberg Bay in South Africa.

Sleeping out under the stars of the great Namibian sky for 10 nights on the most fantastic riding safari. Despite sub zero temperatures outside, our rollmats and feather duvets (with hot water bottles) kept us more than toasty! Waking up at 3am to see shooting stars overhead will be something that stays with me for a long time.

Favourite African animal

Giraffe – I have always wondered what it’s like to be tall……they’re the complete opposite of me; tall, graceful and quiet.

Three favourite camps

Tsarabanjina off the north west coast of Madagascar, for its truly remote location, sugary white sand, warm translucent water, and amazingly romantic and private bandas.

Schoeman Skeleton Coast Safaris’ Kunene Camp in northern Namibia. It’s on the border with Angola and is totally unique, simple and beautiful.

Sand Rivers in Tanzania’s Nyerere National Park (formerly Selous Game Reserve) for its exclusivity, wonderful river location and the sound of hippos from any part of the lodge.

African countries visited

Botswana, Kenya, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, Uganda, Rwanda, South Africa, Tanzania, Zambia, Zimbabwe

Tropical Islands visited

Madagascar, Mauritius, Zanzibar

Riding experience

Wait A Little, Tuli Ride, African Horseback Safaris, Horizon Horseback Safaris, Ants Hill / Nest, Borana Lodge, Lewa Wilderness Safaris Unlimited, Sosian Lodge, Namibia Horse Safari Company.

I think the stand out for me would be swimming through the crystal clear waters of the Okavango Delta, watching mating lion on horse back at Wait A Little, sleeping under the stars for 10 nights on the trot in Namibia and building up such a strong connection with my pony Rupert – the sense of satisfaction at reaching the Skeleton Coast at the end was incredibly emotional. And finally riding right up to a giraffe at Lewa Wilderness – so close I could see it’s beautiful long eyelashes.

On arranging holidays

There’s nothing better than speaking to guests who have just returned from a fantastic holiday.  It gives me such a buzz. There’s plenty of room for error when planning these trips so it’s essential to get everything absolutely right and that’s where the first hand-knowledge and attention to detail comes in.  I travel regularly, and though it’s a wonderful perk, it’s also crucial to help plan the perfect holiday.  I take a lot of pride in trying to make all the trips I plan the best they can possibly be, no matter how long it takes.  Making people happy is very satisfying.

Francis grew up outdoors, spending far more time on his parents’ farm than he did at school. As well as being engrossed in the books of Wilbur Smith from an early age, a growing obsession with Africa was given a major boost on a family holiday in Kenya when he was just 10.

Having attended agricultural college, he spent 18 months exploring outback Australia, mostly working on massive cattle stations many miles from a town of any size, and learned to love being barefoot in the bush.  Having successfully dodged wild cattle and numerous snakes, he returned to the UK to farm in Wiltshire, which he did until 1995 when the call of the wild overtook him once more and he headed for Africa.

For nearly six years Francis travelled the length and breadth of the continent, guiding groups of up to 20 clients on overland safaris, in 22 countries from Morocco to Cameroon, and Kenya to Namibia. He became an expert guide in wildlife, culture, geography and general African knowledge during this time, and since he had a vehicle under his command he was able to explore new and unknown places on most trips.

He then went home again, got married, and made the mistake of running a post office and shop for seven years, before joining Aardvark Safaris in 2008.

Away from work, Francis loves his daughter, and is a keen tennis and cricket player as well as enjoying cycling. He also likes food, wine and beer, and occasionally mows the lawn. Happiest when barefoot in the bush, Francis is passionate about wildlife, conservation and sustainable travel, is fascinated by other cultures, and the benefits that well planned travel can deliver for less fortunate communities in developing countries. He has superb wildlife knowledge and is also a good person to talk to if you are interested in the cultural side of Africa.

Favourite African experience

It’s really hard to name just one, but these are among many; meeting Slot (an elephant) in Zimbabwe’s Mana Pools National Park; seeing and hearing Dogon dancers on the Bandiagara escarpment in Mali; being seriously close to chimps in Mahale Mountains National Park in Tanzania; canoeing the length of the lower Zambezi, camping on islands in the river; the sight of 250 salt laden camels with their Tuareg herders crossing the Sahara to Timbuctoo in Mali; Samburu people watering their stock at Sarara’s Singing Wells.

Favourite animal

The elephant, for its majestic size, complex family and social structures, and its intelligence and longevity. I have spent hours sitting watching them.

My favourite four camps

Goliath Safaris in Mana Pools for the most intimate wildlife encounters.

Sarara Camp in remote northern Kenya for its stunning setting and the Singing Wells.

Chada Katavi in western Tanzania for its remoteness, beauty, and the feeling of being truly wild.

Jack’s Camp in the stunning, other-worldy landscape of the Makgadikgadi Pans in Botswana.

African countries visited

Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Malawi, Mozambique, Zambia, Zaire (now the DRC), Zimbabwe, South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Ethiopia, Nigeria, Benin, Togo, Cameroon, Ghana, Cote D’Ivoire, Burkina Faso, Mali, Senegal, Mauritania, Morocco, Egypt

Tropical Islands visited

Seychelles and Madagascar.

Riding experience

I have ridden at Sosian, Ol Malo, Lewa, Borana, and Ol Donyo in Kenya, at Ant’s Hill (twice), Horizon Horseback Safaris, and Grootbos in SA,

In Zimbabwe I’ve ridden with Hwange Horse Safaris at Bomani, and at Victoria Falls, Kwekwe and Chimanimani (Eastern Highlands). I’ve also stayed with African Horseback Safaris in Botswana.

One of the best experiences was riding from Macatoo (African Horse Safaris’ camp) to the airstrip on the morning we left instead of driving there. It was a fast 3 hour ride and we saw lions on the way.

On arranging holidays

I like to take time to get to know about my clients, to learn what really matters to them, and to provide holidays which suit them perfectly. I work extensively with families, and enjoy coming up with exciting and varied holidays which mix adventure and wilderness with great wildlife and masses of fun in the bush. I enjoy any opportunity to produce an unusual, mixed itinerary, perhaps taking people out of their usual comfort zones and into remote, uncharted territory, even if just for a few days, and also offering the chance to spend time with some of the continent’s fabulous people.

I relish any chance to talk about my favourite places and to enthuse my audience with my passion, hopefully without inducing a yawn.

Part of the joy of the work is the feedback we receive (we contact every client for it on their return), and the satisfaction and excitement engendered in our clients by the holidays we arrange. Our testimonials page makes for great reading.

Having studied travel and tourism at college and International Tourism Management at university Tansy has always had an interest in the industry. So she was delighted to join the Aardvark Safaris team in June 2019 as a sales administrator and to be able to put to good use her knowledge of the tourism industry. Tansy now works as a Travel Expert and has travelled across Namibia and Botswana, ending in Zimbabwe’s Victoria Falls for a short stay to visit some of Aardvark Safaris’ favourite properties. She previously spent a month in Southern Africa including a safari in Kruger National Park, cultural experiences in Eswatini, and some time on the beach in Mozambique.

Favourite African experience
A moment of personal enjoyment came to me one morning in the Okavango Delta, Botswana. I watched the sun slowly rise above a watering hole (African skies never fail to disappoint). So beautifully calm, egrets and herons wading, a mother hippo with her calf slowly padding out in search of a deeper water channel as the heat of day kicks in, zebra and wildebeest with their necks bowed and in the near distance giraffe and elephant. A perfect African scene.

Favourite animal
Cats of any kind but recently I particularly enjoyed watching lions. They’re the only cat to live in groups (pride) and I loved the way their ferocity can easily be forgotten as they greet each other so affectionately, gently rubbing their battle torn faces together.

Favourite three camps
I’m going to cheat and say the best camp for me is any mobile safari camp. It doesn’t matter where it is, but there is no greater luxury, or thrill, than enjoying a morning brew made with water heated over the fire’s embers and having fresh bread daily cooked in the open air in tins. The tents might not be as big as a luxury safari camp, and the bathroom facilities are necessarily more simple, but mobile camps hark back to the days of pioneers and make me feel like an explorer.

African countries visited
South Africa, Eswatini, Mozambique, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Namibia

On arranging holidays
The joys of putting together a tailor made holiday is that you can plan your client the perfect trip for them. Taking time to get to know your client and drawing on your own knowledge and experiences of Africa to ensure any recommendations are best suited for their preferences whether it be a romantic hideaway for honeymooner, a luxury villa for a multi-generational trip or something a little unusual for those wanting to experience something outside of their comfort zone. Clients come to us for their first safari saying this is a once in a lifetime trip but more often than not they’re soon back in touch ready to explore what Africa can offer next, a true testament for perfectly curated trip.

Robyn’s love for the outdoors and wildlife started when growing up on a farm in the Scottish Borders taking any opportunity to take an animal in as a pet.

She soon got the travel bug and loved being able to explore and see how cultures and nature vary around the world. Her favorite experiences so far have been playing with an elephant calf in Thailand, kayaking with orcas in Canada and exploring Cape Town and the surrounding areas. Her love for African travel started after a trip to South Africa and have dreamt about safari and the incredible wildlife since.

She took her passion for exploring and went on to do a Business with Tourism and Events degree at Northumbria University, spending a summer in New Hampshire followed by a year in industry at Disney World in Florida. Having graduated in the middle of the pandemic her plans of hopping on a plane to her next adventure were short-lived and she moved back to Scotland to explore its wonders. She enjoys running (taking on the occasional race!) skiing (especially in Scotland), and a good Sunday brunch.

Favourite African Experiences

My most memorable African experience was participating in rhino conservation efforts in South Africa. I assisted with notching and planting microchips in the horns of a white rhino in Marata. I was also fortunate to join the team at the Kwandwe Conservation Trust in assisting with the notching and tagging of a black rhino and her calf.  Hearing first hand from experts, observing their work and getting the opportunity to participate was incredible expereince.

Check out more about the Kwandwe Rhino Conservation Trust here:

Favourite Animal

While it’s difficult to choose a favourite, I have an appreciation for all wildlife, from big cats to dung beetles. I particularly love young animals, it is fascinating to watch them navigate their new life. My top three animals are the zebra for their unique stripes and sense of community. Cheetah for their elegance and elephants, is incredible seeing them in large herds.

Favourite Three Camps

Sarara  is a community-run camp nestled in the remote Nanyuki region of Kenya.  Sarara offers a unique experience amidst stunning landscapes and is conveniently located near the Reteti Elephant Sanctuary, which is a must-do while there.

Sarara Camp, Kenya

Ants Nest/Hill This welcoming home away from home is based in the picturesque Waterberg region in South Africa. Despite having less concentrated wildlife compared to other areas in South Africa the unique experiences I enjoyed such as horse riding and swimming with horses in the lake, made it a truly memorable experience.

Ants Hill

Lamai Serengeti Set amidst the spectacular Kopje’s of the northern Serengeti in Tanzania, Lamai Serengeti provides a magical base for witnessing the wildebeest migration from June to October and while the migration is in the south or central Serengeti is a quiet oasis and a wonderful combination to a migration camp.

Lamai Serengeti Camp

African Countries Visited

Kenya, South Africa, Tanzania and Botswana

On Arranging Holidays

There is such joy in curating personalised holidays for clients, whether it’s a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, honeymoon, or family getaway. I take pride in listening to their wishes, no matter how big or small, and crafting recommendations tailored to their preferences. One of the best parts of the process is hearing about it when clients return with unforgettable memories, often sparking a wish to plan their next adventure.

Emily has been a nature enthusiast from a young age, getting her first pair of binoculars at age 11 for her bird-watching passion at the time. She is a huge animal lover and has had a range of beloved pets since childhood – the current being a very excitable Labrador called Puffin.

Studying French and Italian at the University of Leeds allowed Emily to spend time in Italy. She completed a year abroad in Padova, during which time she visited all the mainland’s major cities and learned about each region’s cultures. After graduating, she was eager to get back out into the world and live life in a new location. She went to teach English to Italian children in Sardinia for a year. This allowed her to explore the region, learn about its unique and fascinating culture and encourage her curiosity for experiencing new places and travel. While the teaching part was a challenge, she enjoyed sharing her knowledge of her country and recommending places to visit to her students. Therefore, she was thrilled to come across Aardvark Safaris which could combine her passion for travel with her desire to help people have an unforgettable holiday.

In December 2023, Emily’s dreams came true as she embarked on her first African adventure with Aardvark. Travelling through the Okavango Delta was the experience of a lifetime and showed her all of Botswana’s most incredible animals – even the tiniest of frogs spotted from inside a mokoro. Her favourite animals (baby elephants) were in no shortage too!

In her free time at home, she loves reading, baking and getting matcha lattes, whereas any holiday time is spent travelling with friends.

Lucinda has always been an avid fan of the outdoors, ever since being old enough to toddle after any willing creature at her family farm in Melrose, Scottish Borders – ranging from pet lambs to dogs, chickens, geese, cows, with a particular love for horses, and even a pet parrot at one point. She was educated in Edinburgh, but any spare moment was spent competing in the sport of Eventing, travelling to Belgium, Ireland, France, and all over the UK with her horses and juggling this passion whilst studying for an International Business Management degree at the Royal Agricultural University in Cirencester.

After graduating from University in 2022, Lucinda worked in real estate in Edinburgh before heading off to explore New Zealand and Australia to dodge the Scottish winter. The trip generated many memories and a travel bug to last a lifetime, and her highlights included diving the Great Barrier Reef, swimming with dolphins in Kaikoura, skydiving over the Whitsundays and immersing herself into traditional Kiwi/Aussie life whilst meeting people from all walks of life on the way. After returning from the southern hemisphere, Lucinda worked with racehorses to fuel her outdoorsy fix until the end of the National Hunt calendar. The ‘real world’ then took hold and she returned to work in real estate for another Edinburgh Festival season.

During this time, it became apparent that her travel bug wasn’t satiated, and joining the Aardvark Safaris team in their Musselburgh office in 2023 was an irresistible opportunity to twin travel with planning others’ ever-lasting holiday memories.

Favourite African Experiences

An African riding safari has always been near the top of Lucinda’s bucket list, so the chance to specialise in curating riding safari holidays is a dream come true. Highlights include cantering across the Masai Mara with Offbeat Riding Safaris, riding through thick bush with Wait a Little in South Africa, and jumping every fallen log that could be found with Horizon Horseback Safaris on their Mashatu Tuli ride in Botswana.

Favourite Animal

Whilst I love seeing any animal, no matter how great or small, on safari, two favourites would have to be the Grevy’s zebra found in northern Kenya, due to their slightly bigger stature, which makes them more horse-like, and their even bigger ears! The second is a leopard due to their stealthiness and therefore, the thrill when you finally see one and can appreciate their beauty up close, normally after an immense shift from your guide.

Three Favourite Camps

Ol Malo Lodge – Laikipia, Kenya

The views are simply just magical, the hospitality is second-to-none, and the rooms are exquisitely tasteful and built into the rockface on the hill where the lodge is situated so it really blends in with the surroundings.

Ol Malo Lodge, Kenya

Tanda Tula – Timbavati, South Africa

The most amazing wildlife, guiding and magnificent rooms. A very luxury, upmarket camp but tasteful, and the emphasis still firmly remains on the wildlife.

Tanda Tula, South Africa

Offbeat Riding Safaris – Masai Mara, Kenya

A thrill and experience of a lifetime. Cantering across the renowned Masai Mara plains, getting up-close to lions with their hippo kill on horseback and the array of landscapes you traverse due to the nature of the mobile tented camp, makes the ride a true bucket-list trip.

Riding among wildebeest with Offbeat Riding Safaris

Riding experience

Wait A Little, Horizon Horseback Safaris, Horizon’s Mashatu Tuli Ride, Ants Hill / Nest, Borana Lodge, Offbeat Riding Safaris, Sosian Lodge, Ol Malo Lodge

African Countries Visited

Kenya, South Africa, Botswana

On Arranging Holidays

The tailormade element of the trips we curate is so unique, and it means we can deliver exactly what the client wishes to get out of their African adventure. It is always magical when clients come back and share their experience, as we get to travel to the same places, it is so special when you can share their excitement. Whilst African travel is a real perk of the job, it also enables us to recommend the most well-suited holiday to our clients. I love getting to know a client, and then establishing what would work best to ensure we achieve, and hopefully emulate, their expectations, which usually leaves with the safari bug and an infatuation with Africa.

Inspired by wildlife and wild places from childhood Matthew studied for qualifications in animal management and a degree in zoology at Reading University before flying off to Australia. Years of adventures and working with eagles, kangaroos, crocodiles and venomous snakes followed, in both the arid outback and the tropical Top End. Including being the English guy wrangling venomous snakes from people’s houses! Whilst at university and during his time in Australia Matthew was also fortunate enough to hop over into South-East Asia, seeing orangutans in Indonesian and Malaysian Borneo, spending time in Java and volunteering with elephants for a number of weeks in the rainforests of Cambodia.

But Africa was calling and after five years in Australia, it was time to experience another great wildlife wilderness. Matthew, with a specialist interest in birds and specifically, birds of prey, headed to South Africa and volunteered at a number of raptor and wildlife sanctuaries, spending time in Kwazulu-Natal, the Western Cape and Mpumalanga, before eventually returning to the UK and continuing to work in bird of prey conservation. What followed was a stint working in education as a lecturer in animal management, when Matthew headed to South Africa again, this time, to a game reserve in the Eastern Cape.

Matthew is excited to join Aardvark Safaris to share his passion for wildlife and birdwatching with clients and to help them plan trips to see specific species.  He’s looking forward to learning about the incredible wildlife destinations throughout Africa and the possibility of travel to Uganda and Rwanda to see Chimps and Gorillas.

Favourite African Experiences

Too many to pick just one! Seeing a lion pride successfully hunt a buffalo in the Masai Mara. Being in the centre of the great migration with wildebeest and zebra as far as the eye can see in the Serengeti. Taking a scenic flight over Lake Natron and seeing flamingos in their thousands against the colours of the lake. Soaking that all up and at the end of each day sipping your favourite drink at sundowners, realising that what you’ve witnessed is so very special. Every time there is something new!

Favourite Animal

As a birder, my favourite is the African crowned eagle. A magnificent forest eagle, endemic to the continent and stunning in both juvenile and adult plumage. They embody the ancient feeling that Africa emits. As for mammals, it’s lions for me. I don’t think you can ever forget the breath-taking, primeval feeling the first time you encounter a lion in the wild and I still get that feeling every time.

Favourite Three Camps

Gibbs Farm – For spectacular location and views, alongside wonderful hospitality.

Gibbs Farm

Shompole Wilderness – For the birding and opportunity to use their excellent photography hide.

Shompole Wilderness

Chem Chem Lodge – For a little bit of luxury, alongside the array of animals found in and around the lodge.

Chem Chem Lodge

African Countries Visited

South Africa, Tanzania and Kenya

On arranging holidays

What could be better than sharing your passions! Whether coming to us with a very specific idea or a completely blank slate from which to work, the idea of putting together the best possible experience of Africa is truly humbling and exciting in equal measure. Producing bespoke trips for each and every person means that the satisfaction of getting it right is even greater. With a particular interest in the wildlife and birdlife, I love nothing more than curating a trip around those interests but equally I want everyone to experience Africa in the way which is right for them, so that they leave with that special feeling we have all been lucky enough to come away with.

It’s all about relationships, including those we have in Africa and I really enjoy talking to people about what is possible.

Growing up on the coast of New Zealand, Amelia’s life has always focused on the natural world around her. After a yearlong solo backpacking trip across the Pacific Islands and Europe she returned home, inspired by the culture, nature, and forms of art she saw, to complete a degree in Communication Design. Learning a range of different mediums such as graphics, videography, photography, animation, and illustration to creatively communicate ideas and information, she began working on event campaigns for cause-driven businesses that centered around children in poverty and ocean sustainability.

Her love for travel then took her to Fiji, where she spent time teaching English and learning to dive. With a particular affinity to the ocean and marine life, she worked as a dive guide on a marine reserve. Her day-to-day involved educating others on the wildlife below the surface and showing them the array of species in the reserve such as, manta ray, sea turtles, sharks, and an abundance of tropical fish. Eager to swap hemispheres in search of new adventures and opportunities, she spent the better part of 2023 travelling Europe, bouncing between working at surf camps and hiking her way over the continent. Joining Aardvark Safaris as part of the marketing team allows her to continue channelling her passion for travel and creativity by creating exciting and engaging content that promotes the incredible safari destinations and experiences clients can encounter.

Outside of work, you’ll find her in or below the waves surfing or diving. However, more recently she has swapped the ocean for more Scotland-friendly activities such as hiking, running, and wild swimming.

Moving to the UK from Bangkok, Thailand, after having worked in sales and office administration—including human resources and payroll—for a satellite communications business for 14 years, Mook looked for an opportunity where she would be able to apply her experiences and skills as well as enjoy doing something close to where her passions lie, i.e. travel. In January 2018, she joined the Aardvark Safaris team as a sales administrator.

Mook likes exploring and seeing how people, cultures, nature and foods vary in different parts of the world. She has been to China, New Zealand, Singapore, Hong Kong, Nepal, Japan, Taiwan and the USA (California and Nevada). Mook enjoys hiking and has been to the Everest Base Camp, Gokyo Lakes, Renjo Pass and Kala Pathar in Nepal. She’s keen to visit some more mountains around the world, and ultimately to make it to at least one of the Seven Summits—the highest mountains of each of the seven continents. Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania is therefore on her wish list and also walking safaris in Africa.

Lastly, Mook /mu:k/ means ‘pearl’ in Thai.

Born in Brazil to an English father and Brazilian mother, Patricia grew up in a very multicultural household with a huge number of Brazilian aunties and cousins never too far away, always being loud and chatty.

Her love of travel evolved through the many trips they took together as a family around the length of breadth of Brazil. How people lived, their customs, accents, cuisines always fascinated her, and the adventure of reaching a far flung place where they didn’t know what kind of hotel (if any) was waiting for them at the other end added to the sense of excitement (this was travel by the seat of our pants which was the way her parents loved doing it, and pre-internet days).

She says “In Brazil, wildlife was never too far away! Mostly in the interest of self-preservation, while I was growing up I always took notice of different creatures that were around me which gradually developed into a keen interest in spotting exotic birds and other animals in the wild. Although I haven’t ventured to Africa yet, I’m sure my sense of adventure will get me there and one of the most exciting parts for me is to see the variety of wildlife that it has to offer in that incredible landscape. Now helping to develop wonderful holidays for our customers and hearing about their wildlife encounters it is inspiring me even more!”

“My interest in travel led me to move to Edinburgh back in the late 90s to study a degree in International Hospitality Management. Here I started working life in hotels, then moved on into DMCs and Tour Operators gaining over 15 years’ experience within the Scottish tourism industry. It is hard not to be moved and enthusiastic about the scenery, history and legends of Scotland”

“I am now very much settled in East Lothian and when I am not taking walks along the wonderful coastline with my binoculars, you might find me discovering new music (and dancing around the kitchen), enjoying a good film, or relaxing with family and friends with some good food and drink.”

Elaine was born and raised in Pretoria, South Africa. Being part of a close-knit family, travelling always formed a major part of her school years, which led to her love and interest in exploring and travel. Living in Pretoria meant only one thing – centrally based to reach so many amazing destinations in any direction – and that is exactly what she (and her family) did. Spending time around a campfire with friends and loved ones in Africa is the one thing everyone should experience at least once in their lifetime. Elaine was fortunate enough to have grown up knowing this as home.

Even while studying (Interior Design at Pretoria University of Technology) nothing could stop her from jumping on a plane or behind the wheel of her car for a road trip. Armed with a camera and a spirit of adventure, she navigated South Africa from top to bottom.

South Africa is a magical country and has the ability to take your breath away every single day and being part of that made it extra special for her. Places fondly remembered and still visited to this day include the beautiful Cape Winelands, the vast and rugged Karoo, the captivating Garden Route in the Eastern Cape, the sandy beaches and blue waters of Sodwana Bay, and the majestic Kruger National Park to name a few.

Always seeking to broaden her horizons, she also travelled to various other African countries. These include Mozambique, Namibia, Swaziland, and Mauritius. After getting married, the travelling did not stop, and after visiting countries in Europe, it was ultimately Scotland that stole her heart.

Being based in Scotland (Edinburgh) since 2021, she joined Aardvark Safaris in 2023 as Travel Concierge. She aims to combine her vast experience in office administration, sales, finance, and creative design with her knowledge and love for Africa to deliver unforgettable experiences for every client.

Apart from her love for travel, she enjoys spending time with her dogs and the outdoors, visiting new coffee shops and restaurants, cooking with her husband (around an open fire of course), and outdoor photography.

Christine’s appreciation for wildlife, open landscapes and the outdoors started at a young age. She was born and raised in Namibia and spent a lot of her time on family camping trips exploring her home country. She then moved to Cape Town, South Africa when she was 16 years old to complete her schooling and start her journey in the tourism industry. Working for various DMC’s (Destination Management Companies) organising events and incentives to Southern Africa she had the opportunity to share her love for the outdoors. In 2014 she decided to move to Edinburgh, where she worked in the UK inbound travel industry. Christine jumped at the opportunity to share her love once again for the African outdoors as part of the operations team at Aardvark Safaris. In her free time, she loves exploring different parts of Edinburgh, cooking, taking long walks with friends and watching stand-up comedy.

African countries visited:

Namibia, South Africa, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Malawi

Carolyn joined the Aardvark Safaris Hampshire team in May 2018, where she works as a finance assistant alongside Richard Preston. Her previous finance experience comes from 21 years working for the family manufacturing business, so this has been quite a change.

Her young family keeps her busy most of the time but when she does get a spare moment she loves reading, football (watching not playing) and going to see live bands.

She enjoys travelling and Africa is definitely on the list for a future holiday as she thinks her girls would be amazed to see the wildlife up close and personal. Botswana is high on her wish list and she would love to see any of the big cats.