Guided by Passion, Driven by Purpose
Our heart beats for one mission: to save you time, bring you peace of mind, and turn your South African safari lodge dreams into reality. As a close-knit group of independent lodges, we’re passionately committed to upholding the highest standards, ensuring every guest experiences their ultimate safari fantasy. With over a century of collective experience, we proudly say we take you #FurtherTogether.
What makes us truly unique is the enchanting journeys we craft, which we fondly call safaris – derived from the Swahili translation of the Arabic word سفر (safar), meaning a journey, traveling, touring, or voyaging. We’re driven by our three guiding principles: simplicity, sustainability, and spectacular experiences. Whether you’re a direct guest, agent, or member, we promise to consistently deliver these values, creating unforgettable adventures that are as easy on the soul as they are on the planet.
How we decided to go #FurtherTogether
African Safari Collective was born in 2020, right amid the Covid-19 storm. We came together not out of worry for ourselves, but for our teams, our people, our family, and the magnificent creatures of Africa. We knew that if we faltered, the people and wild areas we cherish would be at risk. So, a group of like-minded independent collaborators banded together, knowing we could go #FurtherTogether to protect the wilds and uplift our communities while making our guests’ safari dreams come true.
United by a shared vision, our five founding members, passionate about Southern Africa, set out to share our spectacular journeys and diverse biomes with you. Together, we bring nearly three centuries of tourism expertise in Africa to the table, ensuring that every experience is as unique and unforgettable as the land we love.
Our Founders
Our Founders
Andrew and Anel Rattray
Fairview House
Relocating to the Western Cape has allowed Andrew and Anel to establish their unique presence within the Collective. At Fairview House, they have unveiled its grace and beauty while pioneering an aquaponics farm to sustain their restaurant. This initiative has set Fairview House on a successful path along the Garden Route, with Andrew effortlessly embracing the role of the “Farm to Fork” farmer, showcasing their commitment to sustainability and excellence.
Ryan and Jo Vivier
In 1997, the Vivier family set out to protect endangered species by co-owning and running a game reserve. Success required building a thriving lodge, and thanks to our team and guests, Leopard Mountain has achieved this vision. Today, we continue to prioritize conservation while offering exceptional experiences that keep guests returning. We ensure every guest leaves saying, “Leopard Mountain is always more than we expected”
Hugh and Leigh-Ann Morrison
Makakatana Bay Lodge
Makakatana Bay, a historic draw for people over centuries, has been in the Morrison family for four generations. In 1997, Hugh and Leigh-Ann, with the support of Hugh’s parents, established Makakatana Bay Lodge at the edge of Lake St Lucia, near the family home and original trading store. Passionate about their heritage and conservation, they cherish sharing the wonders of the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its ecological significance and beauty.
Cheryl and Simon Blackburn
Three Tree Hill Lodge
With their entire life dedicated to the travel industry, both Simon and Cheryl know every detail within their lodge and the journey it took to get there. However, their passion for being answerable to Mother Nature with anything they do means that they are the perfect ambassadors for Sustainable living and mentors for all.
Our Promise
OUR LODGES
OUR FAMILY
OUR COLLECTIVE DETAILS
- +27 (0) 8705 99 000
- [email protected]
- PO Box 797 Mtunzini , KwaZulu-Natal, 3867 South Africa
