Born and raised in South Africa, Marcus is passionate about Africa and driven to share all that it has to offer with the world.

Marcus completed his schooling in Cape Town and finished his honours degrees in Marketing and Finance at the University of Cape Town. His early career involved FMCG marketing and operations, before getting involved in tourism. With the coming of age of the internet, and an innate love for Africa, the decision in 2005 to start a specialist African safari company was the right one.

I consider myself privileged to be involved in a business such as Safari365. It operates in an environment that merges the best of technology and African tourism, and fulfills the dreams of so many people that yearn to visit this enchanting continent. Tourism is also a major contributor of foreign exchange to Africa, so whilst we specialise in the creation of tailor-made safaris, there is also the ‘feelgood’ factor knowing that our clients are indirectly supporting the areas and regions they visit with much needed down-the-line job creation

When Marcus is not in the office, he can be found enjoying some of the perks of the industry (like visiting the phenomenal destinations and lodges we offer) or riding his mountain bike along South Africa’s routes and trails.

Favourite Destination:
The barren landscapes of Namibia

Most Treasured Travel Experience:
Recalling my first childhood safari experience in the Kruger National Park (where a face-to face encounter with a sounder of warthogs was enough to get me hooked).

Whilst the UK may be her country of birth, Lucy has spent over 25 years visiting Southern Africa and finally made Cape Town her permanent home in 2019.

Lucy’s love of travel began in her teens, when she unexpectedly moved from England to Lesotho to attend high school. Following her return to the UK, the travel bug firmly took hold and she spent a further year travelling around South America, Australasia and Asia, before settling into a long term career in tourism.

With nearly 15 years spent at one of the UK’s largest and most successful Tour Operators, Lucy’s extensive trade experience spans Sales, Product Development, Procurement, Marketing & Training. She has always been hugely passionate about Africa and since her permanent move to South Africa in late 2019, has been assisting tourism businesses as they maneuver through the pandemic.

“I’m absolutely thrilled to be working with Safari365, a family-owned yet forward-thinking, tech-savvy tourism company, who are really passionate about sharing their first hand knowledge of Africa with the world.”

Favourite Destination:
Namibia is incredibly special to me for its isolation and raw beauty, however I also love the buzz of Cape Town and any getaway to the African bush. I’m a sucker for leopards, G&T sundowners and sunsets!

Most Treasured Wildlife Experience:
Falling asleep to the sounds of the bush in a luxury treehouse in the Sabi Sands is a memory I will cherish forever. Followed closely by waking up on the Zambezi Queen houseboat in Botswana – spotting hippos from my bed!

Ricky is originally from Nigeria where he grew up and completed his studies. After graduating with a Bachelor of Commerce majoring in accounting, Ricky decided to study further in the beautiful country of South Africa. When he arrived in 2003, Ricky fell in love with the country and chose to settle down and has lived here since. Ricky has worked in the tourism industry for 10 years and has embarked on a number of journeys around Southern Africa including visits to Kruger National Park, Tsitsikamma in the Eastern Cape, and Kwa Madwala in Mpumalanga, as well as Mozambique and Swaziland.

Favourite Destination:
Kruger National Park.

Most Treasured Travel Experience:
Doing a helicopter flip over Cape Town which flew from the V&A Waterfront along the Atlantic Seaboard – the scenery was awesome!

Amy is a born and bred South African. She was born in Johannesburg before moving to a small town on South Africa’s West Coast called Darling – most well-known for its beautiful flowers that bloom around spring time! Today, she lives in Cape Town and enjoys the hustle and bustle of living in one of the most beautiful cities in the world!

Before joining the Safari365 team, Amy spent several years working in the hospitality industry and became an expert in customer relations, while developing a keen eye for administration perfection.

Favourite Destination:
Having travelled to places all over the world like Thailand, Dubai, London, Paris, Switzerland, Germany and Greece, Amy can definitely tell you there is no place like home! Being able to go camping in the mountains one weekend or sun tanning on the beach the next, Africa really is diverse and full of colour.

Most Treasured Travel Experience:
Amy’s favourite travel destination and memory would have to be the Garden Route in South Africa. Experiencing the diverse natural beauty at a young age and being given the opportunity to explore activities like the Cango Caves was really special!

She is a born and bred Capetonian with a deep fondness for travel and connecting with people. With a background in marketing, she has always desired to incorporate this passion into her life. Tourism is the perfect platform where her passions and beliefs seamlessly come together, allowing her to pursue her dreams and share this incredible continent with the world

She firmly believes that Africa is not just an incredible destination but a place that offers unparalleled experiences. From its vibrant people to its breathtaking landscapes, every sight and scent is one to remember. 

“I have always felt there is something to be said about travelling in Africa. When you return home, you feel changed in some way. It is impossible not to experience it and feel slightly changed somehow. I think this is the essence of Safari365—this simple passion of wanting to showcase this incredible destination with the world. “

Favourite destination? 

Zambia is one of my all time favourite destinations. It could be due to the nostalgia of it, but there is definitely something to be said about experiencing Victoria Falls for the first time. From the roaring sound of tonnes of water spilling into the Botoka Gorge to the first hit of the Falls spraying you, it is not something that I am likely to forget any time soon. 

Most memorable wildlife experience:

I was in my tent in Botswana when I was woken up early in the morning to the deafening sound of honking coming from outside of my tent. When I eventually braved to look out of my tent, I spotted a herd of hippos congregating a couple of metres away. It is definitely one of the most unquiet alarm clocks I have ever had.

In 1993, eight of us drove from Cape Town to Lusaka in a hippie kombi, then onto Dar es Salaam in the Tazara Express and a ferry to Zanzibar. I still love exploring the wonders of Africa and have I travelled through most of South Africa, Mozambique, Namibia, Botswana and Madagascar.

When Clive was young, his family moved to a small town in Mpumalanga called Machadodorp, they would often visit the Kruger National Park, as it was only a 100 kilometres away. This was where his fascination with wildlife began, his favourite animal is the elephant, these gentle giants display complex social and emotional behaviour, and they value their families more than most animals.

Favourite Destination:
Botswana has the largest population of elephants in Africa, the people are incredibly warm and friendly and the game reserves are unfenced. A couple of years ago, my wife and I were the only people on a game drive that left Ghoha Hills in an open safari vehicle at 6am. We headed into another beautiful African sunrise and on to the Savuti Marsh. Here we witnessed Carmine Bee Eaters, flying alongside and enjoying their breakfast as the insects were released into the air by the game viewer vehicle making its way through the tall grass. We marvelled at the large herds of buffalo and zebra and the entertaining warthogs that run with their tails in the air, like an antenna. We enjoyed lunch under an ancient baobab tree and located a resident pride of lions before returning back to Ghoha Hills at 3pm, having seen just two other vehicles in a 9 hour game drive. The untouched expanse of Botswana is a tonic for the soul.

Most Treasured Wildlife Experience:
Imbali Safari Lodge. Seeing a young male leopard that was chased by a large ferocious male lion. The leopard clambered up a tree that was leafless, while we sat watching this silhouette of the leopard from our game viewer until the lion got bored and moved on to laze in the nearby river bed. Our game ranger alerted us to this unusual high pitched sound coming from within the dry grass, this was the mother calling her cub, a few minutes later, the leopard cub jumped down from the tree and joined his mother as they made their way to a small hill, lay down and posed for the most amazing photos.

Growing up in Johannesburg, Charles and his family would regularly escape to the bush for family holidays. These early memories, infused with the sights and smells of the game reserve, instilled in Charles a deep love for South Africa’s incredible wild spaces and animals. As a young adult, Charles set off to explore the beautiful spaces beyond his home country, experiencing first-hand the enrichment travel can bring. Based in London, he worked in hospitality and sales while travelling Europe extensively, eventually settling on the spectacular Basque Coast of Spain, in the tourist town of San Sebastián.

After returning to South Africa, Charles continued his travels and visited neighbouring countries such as Namibia, Mozambique, Lesotho and Zambia. He has also travelled extensively within his home country, considering himself an expert in finding some of the best spots for game viewing and safari experiences South Africa has to offer. From his home in Cape Town, Charles works to share a taste of his idyllic childhood with travellers from around the world, creating designer travel experiences that allow them to explore Africa’s natural heritage.

Favourite Destination:
Sabi Sands Game Reserve

Most Treasured Wildlife Experience:
White-water rafting down the Zambezi River. There’s nothing like the thrilling experience of witnessing nature’s raw power and unspoilt beauty.

Born and Raised in Cape Town, Andrew’s interests are nature and wildlife, specifically wildlife conservation. He has worked at many wildlife sanctuaries and reserves within the Western Cape. Andrew’s been in the tourism industry for close to 20 years, is a registered tourist guide for the Western Cape and Garden Route and even spent some time as a Wildlife Ranger. He is a fun, easy-going guy who loves adventure and trying new things.

Favourite Destination:
Namibia, Kruger, Botswana, Tanzania and the Garden Route.

Most Treasured Wildlife Experience:
River guiding in Namibia & working with wildlife on a private game reserve.

Chantel is an experienced Travel Expert born and bred in Cape Town, driven by an insatiable desire to discover the hidden wonders of the world. With a passion for exploration and a close-knit connection to Safari365, she paints vivid travel experiences that leave a lasting impact on those seeking adventure.

Her journey into tourism originated in the UK, where her passion for travel and people began. Now, almost two decades later, her enthusiasm for exploration and travel has only grown. Her passion for sharing the splendour of Africa’s wonders with the world through travel and tourism is unparalleled. 

Favourite Destination:
Kenya holds a special place in my heart with its breathtaking natural beauty and warm hospitality. Among the many treasures, Kruger National Park stands out as a serene and captivating safari haven, where I find solace and a renewed bond with nature.

Zannon is a Travel Expert with a deep passion for Africa and its wonders. Growing up in a family of explorers, he embarked on numerous road trips across South Africa during his formative years, discovering unique destinations and igniting his love for travel. Over the past decade, Zannon has become a respected figure in the travel industry, specialising in African travel and acquiring vast knowledge and expertise. His travel log includes remarkable adventures in countries such as Namibia, Botswana, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, and Zambia, with plans to explore Tanzania and Kenya in the future.

Zannon’s mission is to showcase Africa’s magic to his clients, enchanting them with the beauty of the continent’s countries, landscapes, wildlife, and cultures. He believes that Africa possesses a captivating power that can transform people’s outlook on life, and it totally makes sense why one of his favourite quotes is from American writer Mark Twain – “Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness, and many of our people need it sorely on these accounts.” 

Favourite Destination:

While it is challenging for me to choose a favourite destination from Africa’s diverse offerings, I hold a special affection for South Africa. In my opinion, it is the ideal destination for first-time African adventurers due to its comprehensive representation of the continent.

Most treasured Wildlife Experience:

Among my treasured wildlife experiences, one stands out prominently in my memory. During a safari in Kruger National Park, I witnessed a thrilling encounter between three male lions and a herd of buffalo. The lions, initially basking lazily in the sun, transformed into alert predators as the buffalo approached. With astonishing speed and precision, the lions launched a coordinated assault, bringing down one of the buffalo. This awe-inspiring event served as a vivid testament to the raw and untamed beauty of Africa’s wilderness.

He was born and raised in the province of KwaZulu Natal (KZN). His journey into the world of Travel and Tourism began early on, in 2003. He found himself drawn to the wonders of the industry, constantly seeking opportunities to immerse himself in different cultures and experiences.

Interacting with people from all walks of life, sharing in their stories, and witnessing their genuine passion for travel has deepened his appreciation for the beauty of human connection. Being part of Safari365 has allowed him to combine his love for travel, his knowledge of the industry, and his dedication to providing exceptional service. It is incredibly rewarding for him to assist others in crafting their dream safari adventures, enabling them to discover the awe-inspiring wildlife, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant cultures that Africa has to offer.

After completing his studies in Travel and Tourism, he discovered a true sense of fulfilment by joining the remarkable team at Safari365. Working for an exceptional company has been a dream come true for him. The close-knit environment and culture at Safari365 have made it more than just a workplace; it is a home away from home for him.

Favourite Destination:
My favourite place would be the sanctuary on the pristine shores of Mozambique’s White Pearls Beach. Nestled along the breathtaking coastline, this destination has captured my soul and become my absolute favourite. From the moment I set foot on the powdery white sand and witnessed the turquoise waters stretching as far as the eye could see, I knew I had discovered a hidden gem. The untouched beauty of White Pearls Beach, with its secluded coves and swaying palm trees, creates a paradise-like atmosphere that simply takes my breath away.

She is originally from the Eastern Cape, with ancestral roots in Maseru, Lesotho. She holds a degree in Tourism Management from Cape Peninsula University of Technology. Cape Town holds a special place in her heart, as she finds it to be a beautiful city. From the friendliness of the locals to the incredible sights and sounds, there is very little not to like about this incredible place she calls home. 

From a young age, she has been passionate about working in the tourism sector. Her curiosity about different destinations and cultures has always motivated her to expand her knowledge in this field. 

“Joining Safari365 has been an incredible experience for me. The company fosters a genuine sense of care among its employees, and we work together as a unified team. With a forward-thinking approach, Safari365 continuously generates new ideas and initiatives, always looking ahead to the future.”

Favourite Destination

Botswana has to be one of the best wilderness and wildlife areas on the African continent. With luxury safaris and resorts, it offers a rich and unique culture. However, I love Cape Town for its towering mountain ranges, beautiful beaches, coastal towns, and majestic Winelands.

She spent most of her childhood in a small town called Gonubie, which is located outside of East London (not the UK). However, she has lived in about four other provinces in South Africa throughout her life – Eastern Cape, KwaZulu Natal, Gauteng, and the Western Cape.

She has always had a love for tourism, since high school. While she decided to take a different career path, eventually she embraced her true calling and decided to pursue a career in tourism and travel.

“I am really so blessed to be working at one of the biggest and most reputable Safari Tour Operators in Africa. While I am new to this sector of tourism, I am immersing myself in this incredible industry and learning every day from people who are very passionate about tourism and are always willing to help me learn.”

Favourite Destination: 

I have never been outside of the country (South Africa), but Namibia is number one on my bucket list. My favourite destination to visit in South Africa, however, has been the West Coast region of the Western Cape. This area is home to small seaside towns like Saldanha Bay, Paternoster, Langebaan, etc., which remind me so much of my hometown. Even though there is not much to do there, it is good to step out of the busy city life.

Most treasured Wildlife Experience:

Elephant Sanctuary outside of Mossel Bay and got to walk with the elephants and feed them. As someone who is very afraid of animals, it was a wonderful experience, as those elephants were very laid back and calm.

With a diverse heritage ranging from Greek, Egyptian, French, Italian, Turkish, Spanish, Portuguese and North American – culture and travel are Eliane’s main passions. From her first trip to Africa in 2007, Eli has been hooked on the continent! She has returned numerous times to discover more about Africa and share this infectious passion.

Completing her Bachelor’s degree in tourism at USP (Universidade de Sao Paulo in Brazil), Eli has worked in the tourism industry since 2000. Based in Sao Paolo, yet very much part of the Safari365 family since 2011, Eli is passionate about growing tourism into Africa from Brazil, Latin America and North America.

Eli is available for face-to-face virtual consultations with clients who are looking to plan their dream safari in Africa. Once your itinerary is created, booked and confirmed, Safari365 head office (based in Cape Town, South Africa) will be on hand to offer ‘on-the-ground’ support throughout the duration of your travels to Africa.

Favourite Destination:
Tanzania and South Africa.

Most Treasured Travel Experience:
Seeing the mountain gorillas in Uganda and Rwanda. Incredible!

Valeria, daughter of Italian and Spanish immigrants, studied a lot about history and geography since she was a child, wondering how her parents lives were in the faraway lands they used to live.

In São Paulo, Brazil, where she was born, she graduated in Tourism and studied languages during her whole life. It was a way to learn more about other cultures around the world.

Her professional life in tourism began when she was hired – yet so young – to join an international hotel representation. It was such amazing first experience that made she never let the tourism
career behind.

In 1983, she began to work for a renowned operations company in Brazil, when she established her experience. Then, she had plenty of opportunities to travel to many countries in Europe, Middle East, Asia and
Americas.

In the last 18 years, she dedicated her career to focusing on Middle East and Asia groups, ensuring to her clients an unique experience during the entire travel. The love for new cultures, new places, led her today to dedicate herself to studying and learning about Africa to be able to provide magical and wonderful moments to people.

Favourite Destination:
Thailand and Spain

Most Treasured Travel Experience:
The most striking: India with the culture of the sacred.
The most beautiful landscape: Phi Phi Islands.