Home - Your Private Africa

Crafting adventures in Africa’s most spectacular destinations

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Immerse yourself in the
Wildest spaces

Explore all experiences

Lions, leopards and cheetahs – oh meow!

Walking with the gorillas

Discover Rwanda, Uganda and Congo in different ways

Captivating aerial safaris

Make memories to last a lifetime on a family safari

Unwind as you experience some of the best of Africa

Ideal destinations for the luxury traveler

The Great Migration

Plan to see one of the most exhilarating spectacles in the animal kingdom

What we
Love

Explore the hideaways we’ve found, meet the people we’ve met and run through our round-ups. We’ve tried and tested Africa, and now it’s your turn.

Explore our blog

CELEBRATING A DECADE OF YPA

It's been the best journey, and we're just getting started.

5 UNCOMPROMISING PILLARS OF EVERY YPA SAFARI

The foundation of your experience lies in the details...and that’s where we come in.

IS AN AFRICAN SAFARI ON YOUR 2025 BUCKET LIST?

5 ideas for how to experience Africa this year.

EAST AFRICA ALL TO YOURSELF

These are our favorite exclusive use villas for the ultimate private safari.

TAKE THE PATH LESS TRAVELED TO MADAGASCAR

Brimming with biodiversity and adventure at every turn, Madagascar has it all.

GORILLA TREKKING 101

A quick and easy round up to help you decide which location will work best for you

Featured
Destinations

We spend almost half of the year on the African continent. We stay connected and informed to ensure your trip is guaranteed to be seamless and fun.

Straddling the equator on the East Coast of Africa…

South Africa is one of the most beautiful and diverse…

Zimbabwe is a small and vibrant country situated…

Botswana is situated in the heart of Southern Africa…

View all destinations

Why us?

We strive to connect people with nature, offer freedom outside of life’s routine and make travel to Africa less intimidating

WE’VE GOT HISTORY

2 decades of living and working in, and traveling around Africa

WE GIVE BACK

When and wherever possible, we support sustainability, environmentally conscious causes, and social upliftment

WE’VE EXPERIENCED AFRICA FROM ALL ANGLES

Our years of experience in Africa, acting as a safari guide, working in marketing and operations for lodges give us an edge

TOP AFRICA TRAVEL SPECIALIST

We’ve been voted Condé Nast Traveller Top Africa Specialist 2020, 2021, 2022,2023 & 2024

WE HIT THE MARK

We follow up on the details, so you can focus on the fun

WE KNOW AFRICA

Having spent years in the travel business, with a strong focus on Africa, we’ve built great relationships

Our booking process

Your Private Africa

We plan safaris – fully inclusive itineraries end-to-end. We make sure all the dots connect from the minute you take off to touch down. We take care of all the details.

Whatever you envision, we can make it happen.

ABOUT US

Beyond your wildest dreams. See what our other travelers had to say...

Stories

An awesome adventure

The multi-gen Barsotti family in Kenya

An unforgettable honeymoon

Angelique & Fernando spent 2 weeks in Kenya and South Africa

We experienced pure magic

Cristin and Corey experienced a safari in Kenya

YPA made our honeymoon in Africa unforgettable

Kelle & Conner had an adventure in South Africa & Mozambique

A beautiful, detailed and seamless itinerary

Dave & Sylvia experienced an iconic South Africa & Uganda gorilla safari

A trip crafted with precise care for our needs

The Terry Family in Kenya

We'll never forget this truly exceptional adventure!

The Ballantine family discovered Tanzania

Thanks for all your help arranging the trip of a lifetime!

Phil & Molly's honeymoon in South Africa & Seychelles

What a fantastic trip we had to Africa!

The Lee Family explored South Africa, Zambia & Kenya

Scott and I can’t wipe the smiles off our faces

Deb and Scott trailed through South Africa and Zimbabwe

An absolutely amazing trip

Roger and Linda in Rwanda & Tanzania

A truly private exceptional trip

Trish, Seamas and Keely's trip to South Africa, Kenya & Rwanda

Nick planned a truly magical trip for our family

The Urquardt family in Kenya & Uganda

View testimonials

This Month’s Pick: One Day I Will Write About This Place

A vivid memoir that transports readers into the heart of East Africa through the eyes of one of its most distinctive voices.

You’ll love this armchair adventure…
Love, Ashley xx

Explore our reading list

EXPLORE OUR ADVENTURES ON INSTAGRAM

#travelthatconnects

Feb 20

Watching elephants up close is something we never get tired of. Sitting in this underground hide, you can’t help but be drawn in by their behavior—it’s easy to lose track of time!

It’s also fascinating how different elephants can be, depending on where you are in Africa. If you love elephants, here are a few places to add to your list:

🌅 Northern Kenya is home to the famous big tuskers, elephants with some of the longest tusks you’ll ever see, roaming freely across the plains.

🛶 In the Okavango Delta, Botswana, you’ll find elephants wading through the water and splashing as they move along—it’s a one-of-a-kind scene.

🏜️ Damaraland, Namibia offers something completely different with the desert-adapted “ghost elephants” quietly moving through the rugged landscape.

If seeing elephants is a must for you, let us know and we’ll work it into your itinerary. 🐘

#YourPrivateAfrica #TravelThatConnects #WildlifeLovers #AfricanWildlife #WildlifeLover #TravelWithPurpose #TripInAfrica #NatureEnthusiast #WildlifeTourism #ElephantHide #ElephantSafari

Feb 17

2025 is for more unique experiences! Like this bush bath in the Mara - “We stayed in there for an hour until the dawas and homemade potato chips were gone.” - Ash

#YourPrivateAfrica #TravelThatConnects
#OnSafari #KenyaSafari #LuxurySafari #Cottars #Cottars1920Camp #Cottars1920sCamp #TravelExperience #TravelToAfrica #MasaiMara #MaasaiMara #AfricanHoneymoon #RomanticTravel #HoneymoonSafari #Outdoors #NatureLoversOfInstagram

Feb 14

Our Valentine? Africa. ❤️🌍

This year, we’re head over heels for… Africa. Here’s why:

🦒 The wide-open spaces that stretch forever, where the horizon feels limitless and the air is pure.
🌞 The golden sunshine, warming your skin as you sip your morning coffee in the wild.
🦁 The wildlife, where every encounter, whether a lion’s roar or an elephant’s gentle presence, feels like pure magic.
🌍 The adventure, from heart-pounding game drives to serene moments on remote beaches.
🤗 The people, whose warmth and hospitality make you feel at home, no matter how far you’ve traveled.

This Valentine’s Day, our hearts belong to Africa. Who’s with us? ❤️

#YourPrivateAfrica #TravelThatConnects #Wildlife #DreamDestination #AfricanWildlife #AfricaTravel #DiscoverAfrica #AfricaPrivateTours #LoveLetterToAfrica #Valentine2025

Feb 12

What all anniversaries should look like - venturing through Kenya and Seychelles like Ashleigh and Ryan. Hearing their feedback warms our hearts…

“It was all a dream. Come true! Nick, Ashley and their team crafted a trip for us that was, without question, the most memorable we have ever taken.”

So happy to be a part of bringing these special moments to life!

#YourPrivateAfrica #TravelThatConnects #TravelInspiration #TravelingCouple #WildlifeLover #AfricanAnimals #AfricanTravel #BeautifulAfrica #ExploreNewPlaces #LuxuryTours #CustomTrips

Feb 9

Nothing like a well-deserved, cold glass of apple juice at the end of a long week! 🥂

📸 @tanveerbadal

#YourPrivateAfrica #TravelThatConnects #TravelAfrica #TravellingToddlers #SafariWithKids #WineOClock #SafariSundowners #BushBreak #LuxuryTravels #TravelIdeas #TravelAndExplore #AdventureTours

Feb 6

It’s baby season in Africa and while one of our team members was spotting leopard cubs, lion cubs, and baby elephants in Botswana’s Okavango Delta this weekend, we were welcoming our own little cub into the world in Seattle!

True to our African roots, we’ve clearly fallen in sync with the rhythms of the wild as baby Everly arrived over the weekend. We’re so excited for this next adventure and can’t wait to introduce her to all the places we hold close to our hearts!

#YourPrivateAfrica #TravelThatConnects #FamilyAdventure #AfricanWildlife #BabyAnimals #OkavangoDelta #SafariLife #WildlifeLovers #FamilyTrips #NextGenExplorer #LoveWildlife #LeopardCub

Feb 2

This time last year, we were immersed in the magic of Kenya’s Mara, likely on a morning game drive with Amarula coffee in hand.

Alongside the Badal family, we explored Kenya through the curious eyes of our toddlers. The open plains became their playground, the wildlife their endless source of fascination, and the people their newfound friends.

What we wouldn’t give to be back there right now, which has us thinking it’s time to start planning the next adventure.

Where were you this time last year? More importantly, where do you want to be this time next year? 🌍✨

#YourPrivateAfrica #TravelThatConnects #TravelAfrica #TravelInspiration #LuxuryTravel #DreamDestination #FamilyAdventure #PrivateTours #HolidayDestination #TravelAndExplore #TravelIdeas #DiscoverNewPlaces #ExploreTheUnknown #AuthenticTravel #PlanYourTrip #TravelWithAPurpose #CommunityBasedTourism

Jan 30

For first-time safari-goers, spotting the Big Five is often the main goal. But after a few visits, the thrill shifts to discovering Africa’s unique little creatures, each as fascinating as the next. Seeing a pangolin, for instance, is often a once-in-a-lifetime experience—they’re incredibly rare and secretive in the wild.

Other animals to keep an eye out for include mischievous honey badgers, meerkat families, tortoises crossing the road, flap-necked chameleons camouflaged in the trees and burrowing mongooses.

#YourPrivateAfrica #TravelThatConnects #WildlifeTourism #AfricanNature #NatureEnthusiast #LoveWildlife #BeautifulCreatures #WildlifeLover #WildlifeSafari #AfricanWildlife

Jan 28

10 years of impactful travel, guided by our mission to focus on areas with high conservation and community value. Here are a few ways our clients have contributed to making a difference:

🌍 Upgrading chalkboards to projectors at @simoongaschool in Zambia, enhancing learning experiences.
🐘 Supporting the elephant collaring project with @grumetifund in Tanzania to mitigate wildlife and community conflict.
❤️ Donating to @dulinilodge’s nursing home in South Africa, ensuring care and comfort for its members in their golden years.
☀️ Raising funds for @greatplainsconservation’s Solar Mamas program, empowering women in Botswana to utilize solar electricity for their businesses.
📚 Helping build a school at @royalchundu in Zambia to improve education in rural communities.
🐘 Experiencing @elephanthavens , interacting with handlers and orphaned elephants, where proceeds supporting their care and rescue efforts.

If giving back while traveling resonates with you, check out our article on responsible travel and let’s grow this list together.

#YourPrivateAfrica #ResponsibleTravel #CommunityOutreach #SustainableTravel #Conservation #Africa #WildlifeConservation #GivingBack #CommunityFirst #OutreachProgram

Jan 26

A day in the life of a flap-neck chameleon 🦎

Safaris aren’t just about big sightings; it’s often the smallest creatures that remind us how vibrant life is here. Helping this little chameleon on its way was a true highlight and a reminder that we’re just visitors in their home.

#YourPrivateAfrica #TravelThatConnects #WildlifeLover #LoveWildlife #WildlifeExperience #SafariExperience #WildlifeOfAfrica #LittleCreatures #Chameleon

Jan 24

ESCAPE THE CROWDS IN TANZANIA - dreaming of vast savannas filled with wildlife, remote rainforests alive with primates, or soft, sandy beaches? Tanzania has it all.

Experience the magic of unrushed wildlife encounters, plus the chance to actively support conservation in one of the country’s private concessions.

For true adventure, Mahale National Park offers lush rainforests and chimpanzee trekking on the shores of Lake Tanganyika. And when it’s time to relax, Tanzania’s private islands like Mnemba and Fanjove deliver the ultimate secluded, barefoot luxury. Ready to plan your Tanzanian escape?

Head to the link in our bio for the full article.

#YourPrivateAfrica #TravelThatConnects #TravelDestination #TravelExperience #AfricanSafari #ExploreNature #TanzaniaSafari #HolidayDestination #WildAfrica #SafariLife #LuxurySafari #NatureTourism #PrivateCamp #CustomTrips

Jan 22

Did someone say friendcation? If exploring far-off places with your closest friends sounds like your kind of adventure, follow in the footsteps of Denise, David, Kate & Thomas and book your Africa trip with YPA. We handle every last detail, so all that’s left is for you have to soak up each moment.

“We really appreciated how smoothly the transfers within the country were—so nice not to have to think or worry!” – Kate

Reach out to start planning!

#YourPrivateAfrica #TravelThatConnects #TravelDestination #TravelInspiration #DreamDestination #TravelExperience #LuxuryTravels #VisitAfrica #BeautifulAfrica #ExploreNewPlaces #CustomTrips #AfricaTour #AfricaTourism #CapeTownTravel

Jan 20

10 years ago, Nick and Ashley turned their passion into a reality, founding Your Private Africa with a mission to make travel to this extraordinary continent less intimidating. Nick’s journey began as a teenager, when a visit to Africa sparked “an immediate connection with the bush” that drove him and Ashley to build YPA into what it is today.

“Coming to Africa changed our lives forever. Every trip we plan is imagined with the hope that it will have the same profound impact on our YPA clients—shaping who they are and who they become.” None of this would be possible without our amazing clients, who trust us with their vision and allow us the creative freedom to craft something beautiful.

As we celebrate YPA’s 10-year anniversary, it feels like just yesterday we began this journey. We can’t wait to dream up the unforgettable adventures that come to life in the next decade.

🎥 @chrisjoubert

#YourPrivateAfrica #TravelThatConnects #10YearsOfYPA #Milestone #SafariAdventure #TravelInspiration #TravelDestination #DreamDestination #AfricanSafari #ThisIsAfrica #TravelIdeas #LifeToInspire #ConservationSafari #AdventureAfrica

Jan 18

If you could be one place right now, where would you be? For us, it would be on a beach in Africa, especially as winter in Seattle is setting in.

We’ve seen some stunning tropical destinations, but a few truly stand out:

🌊 Desroches Four Seasons, Seychelles – a private paradise on a lush coral island. - @fsdesroches

🏝️ Kisawa, Mozambique – a sanctuary of forest, beach, and sand dunes at the tip of Benguerra Island. - @kisawasanctuary

🐟 Mnemba, Zanzibar, Tanzania – a seafarer’s paradise on a private island steeped in culture and history. - @andbeyondmnemba

🐚 Miavana Time & Tide, Madagascar – for exclusivity, adventure, and an unspoiled horizon not to mention some of the best diving around. - @timeandtideafrica @miavana_

🌴 HBD Príncipe, São Tomé – off the west coast of Africa, here you’ll find one of the most biodiverse rainforests on the planet, golden beaches, and communities deeply connected with nature. @hbd_principe

Just thinking about Africa’s blue-water beaches is enough to get us through the winter blues—but counting down to a trip would make it that even better. Browse our safari and sand itineraries—linked in bio.

@lacigaleestate #YourPrivateAfrica #TravelThatConnects #TravelAfrica #DreamDestination #ExploreNature #VisitAfrica #TravelAndExplore #TravelIdeas #LuxuryTours #ExploreTheUnknown #TropicalIsland #AfricanIsland

Jan 15

Is there anything better than the feeling of anticipation before a big trip? Our YPA Book Club is here to keep the excitement building, with perfect reads to inspire you while you count down the days.

Safari lodges are filled with quiet corners, perfect for escaping into the pages of a good book during some down time. Head to the link in our bio for our latest recommendations.

#YourPrivateAfrica #TravelThatConnects #TravelInspiration #TravelExperience #FamilyAdventure #ExploringNature #AfricanAnimals #AfricanTravel #BeautifulAfrica #BookClub #SafariBooks #AfricanTales #AfricanNovels #SafariTales

Jan 11

POV: you’re the king of the jungle...and you know it.

📸 @chrisjoubert

#WildlifeLovers #DiscoverWildlife #AfricanAnimals #BeautifulAfrica #LoveWildlife #WildlifeWatching #TripInAfrica #WildlifeOfAfrica #MaleLion #KingOfTheJungle #BigCats #AfricanLion

Jan 8

Ins and outs and ups and downs of traveling with little ones, we know it all. Especially traveling with toddlers can be stressful but it should never hold you back from going on amazing trips.

We’ve pulled together some insider tips from Nick and Ashley on traveling with your kids in Africa. Experiencing Africa as a family is uniquely enriching, and we’re here to help streamline your trip.

Top three tips include traveling with an inflatable seat for the airplane, packing anti-itch bug sticks, and having handy snacks your toddler loves (think goldfish crackers, chickpea snacks, freeze-dried fruit, etc.). For the complete rundown from the experts hop over to link in the bio.

#YourPrivateAfrica #InsideScoop #ExpertTips #TravelHacks #FamilyTravel #AfricaAdventure #TravelWithKids #FamilyAdventure #ExploreAfrica #FamilyAdventure #FamilyTrips #TripPlanning #BeautifulAfrica #SafariLife #AfricaTrip #WildlifeExperience #SafariExperience

Jan 4

One of the benefits of knowing Africa so well? We can create incredible trips any time of year. Shoulder season—those quieter periods outside peak travel times—is one of our favorites. Here’s why:

✔️ More flexibility to secure your ideal itinerary—lodges, locations, and experiences.
✔️ Fewer visitors mean quieter, more personal wildlife encounters.
✔️ Better value with lower rates, so you can spend more on extras like private charters or exclusive game drives.
✔️ Less hectic airports, making travel smoother all around.
✔️ Each season brings its own distinct beauty to Africa’s landscapes.

If you’re ready to swap the Northern cold for an African adventure, reach out—we’d love to help you plan.

#YourPrivateAfrica #TravelThatConnects #WildlifeExperience #WildlifeTourism #TravelWithMeaning #WildlifeWatching #ExploreNewPlaces #DiscoverNewPlaces #WildlifeSafari #TravelAndExplore #ShoulderSeason

Dec 31

Today, we’re reflecting on the moments that truly mattered in 2024. This year, our travels have been about connection— with nature, unique cultures, and most importantly, each other. From sunrise game drives and incredible wildlife sightings to quiet moments under starlit skies, 2024 has deepened our love for Africa and strengthened our resolve to introduce more guests to this extraordinary continent 🌍
We're stepping into 2025 filled with excitement for new adventures, discoveries, and the opportunity to help you create even more unforgettable memories. Here’s to exploring, connecting, and making 2025 one for the books.
Happy New Year! 🥂
#YourPrivateAfrica #nye2024
#travelthatconnects

Dec 27

Imagine a place brimming with biodiversity and hidden luxury gems. An island with pristine beaches, vibrant underwater wildlife, rich culture, baobab avenues and forests teeming with exotic lemurs, birds and chameleons. Can you guess?

…this is MADAGASCAR, the perfect path less traveled for your next African adventure. Read the full article at the link in bio.

📸 YPA and @timeandtideafrica

#YourPrivateAfrica #TravelThatConnects #TravelInspiration #DreamDestination #ExploreAfrica #HolidayDestination #AmazingAfrica #NatureWonders #LuxuryTours #LuxuryExperiences #CustomTrips #UniqueDestinations #IslandSafari #LuxuryIsland

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