It can begin with anything. A documentary series beautifully narrated by David Attenborough. A single image of the Great Wildebeest Migration. Stories of an aunt who waited and waited and eventually went on a fly-in safari of Botswana. Or maybe it’s one of the famous quotes, like the one from Karen Blixen who said; “There is something about safari life that makes you forget all your sorrows and feel as if you had drunk half a bottle of champagne — bubbling over with heartfelt gratitude for being alive.” 

Or maybe it’s this beautiful passage from Jodi Picoult who wrote; “You have to understand – there is a romance to Africa. 

 You can see a sunset and believe you have witnessed the hand of God. You watch the slope lope of a lioness and forget to breathe. You marvel at the tripod of a giraffe bent to water. In Africa, there are iridescent blues on the wings of birds that you do not see anywhere else in nature. In Africa, in the midday heart, you can see blisters in the atmosphere. When you are in Africa, you feel primordial, rocked in the cradle of the world.” Anything can spark a fascination with Africa. But when it takes hold, it’s important to listen.
A trip to Africa is one of life’s greatest wonders and what’s fascinating about it is that there are so many ways to explore this magnificent continent.

Here’s a simple fact: Africa is big! It’s big enough to fit in the U.S., China, India, Japan, Mexico, and many European nations, combined. And you’ll have very different experiences depending on where you visit. Further to this, when and how you visit makes a huge difference. So much depends on the advice you’re given and the way in which you travel. This is why deciding on the right travel agent is so vital. In no destination on earth, is it as essential to travel with experts as it is in Africa.

So, what should you consider when choosing an African travel expert

1. First-hand experience: This is crucial. If you’re going to listen to someone talk about a far-off land, it’s vital that the person has not only been there but knows it like the back of his hand.
2. Good relationships with guides and lodges: It’s important that your agent knows the places, lodges and people you’re going to encounter intimately so that they can ensure your holiday is the best it can possibly be. Remember, there’s a big difference between the best and almost the best.
3. A tailor-made itinerary: The first thing a travel agent should ask is about your needs, budget and preferences. This will help them refine their recommendations and create a customised itinerary for you. Tip: A great travel agent will always go the extra mile to make your safari exactly right for you.
4. 24/7 support: Your travel agent’s job doesn’t finish just because you’ve paid them. A truly great agent will support you from the moment you leave your home until you return, safe and happy. This is especially important if you’re travelling to a complex destination such as Africa.

This is where we come in. Our travel experts have decades of experience and can meet all of the key requirements for an African travel agent, and more. We’re perfectly placed to help travellers discover the best of Africa.

So, what makes Scintilla’s travel curators the best?

1. Local Knowledge: We’re based on the ground in Southern Africa and have first-hand knowledge of the experiences that await our travellers.
2. Responsible Travel: We support local and the experiences and journeys we recommend, uplift the communities and environment we operate in.
3. Boutique Focus: Our goal is to connect curious-minded travellers to the essence of the place they’re visiting.
4. Immersive Experiences: We specialise in showing our travellers how to discover unique, locally-infused experiences.
5. Exceptional Locations: Our bespoke journeys feature stylish, owner-run properties in exceptional locations.
6. Bespoke Trips: Our local travel experts are widely travelled and vastly experienced, with expert knowledge of Southern Africa.

If you’re curious about Africa or wanting to plan a trip, there’s no better way than with us. Simply submit your travel enquiry and let us put you on a path to Africa, where you’ll feel secure, thrilled and delighted at the same time.