Home - Your Private Africa

Crafting adventures in Africa’s most spectacular destinations

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Immerse yourself in the
wildest spaces

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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

Mar 31

African wild dogs - a safari favorite but always a rare and special sighting! These “painted wolves” are deadly hunters, swift and strategic as a pack, yet they are playful and family-oriented. We could watch them for hours!

What’s your favorite sighting? 🐾

📸 @chrisjoubert

#YourPrivateAfrica #TravelThatConnects #Wildlife #DiscoverWildlife #WildlifeLover #WildlifeOfAfrica #AfricanWildDogs #RareSighting

Mar 28

We say it all the time, Africa is incredible year-round. Every season has its own magic, and at YPA, we’re all about debunking the idea of a “right” time to visit. Instead, we focus on what works for you.

If you have the luxury of traveling outside of peak travel periods, there are some serious perks, for example...

✈️ Smoother travel with less traffic; no rush, more ease
✔️ Greater value means longer stays, giving you more time and leeway for different experiences, like a private charter or Treehouse Experience.
🦁 Fewer guests inevitably means more personal attention and exclusive moments. This could be that wildlife sightings are more intimate or that dining experiences are more private.
❤️ Deeper connections with lodge staff, local culture, and the wildlife
☀️ Incredible weather outside the usual peak months

Let’s travel smart this year. Head to the link in bio for the full article on decoding seasonality.

#WeAreYPA #YourPrivateAfrica #TravelDifferently #TravelThatConnects #ExploreAfrica #ThisIsAfrica #HolidayDestination #TravelIdeas #TravelOutOfSeason #SeekingUniqueTrips #EscapeTheHype #ExperienceMore

Mar 25

Education doesn’t only happen in the classroom 🌍✨📚🐘

#YourPrivateAfrica #TravelThatConnects #TravelEducation #KidsSeeingTheWorld #SafariChild #RichChildhoodExperiences #AfricanChild #TravelAfrica #LifeOnTheRoad

Mar 22

Did you know? The best time to see Cape Town’s African Penguins is from March - May each year. This is when they’re in the peak of their breeding season, and the weather in Cape Town is spectacular! 🐧 The Boulders Penguin Colony in Simon’s Town is home to one of the world’s few land-based colonies. The charming beach they call home has become a must-see spot for anyone passing through Cape Town.

#CapeTown #AfricanPenguins #BouldersBeach #WildlifeWonder #YourPrivateAfrica #TravelThatConnects #WildlifeLovers #ThisIsAfrica #ExploreNature #AfricanNature #ExploreTheUnknown

Mar 18

Snippets of some big cat sightings on YPA safaris 🐆

We've crafted some exciting itineraries specifically for our big cat lovers. If lions, cheetahs and leopards light your fire, head to the link in bio and browse our big cat experiences.

#YourPrivateAfrica #TravelThatConnects #BigCatSafari #WildlifeEncounters #LeopardsOfAfrica #CheetahSpotting #LionKingdom #AfricaUncovered #UntamedAfrica #PredatorParadise

Mar 14

This week our co-founder, Nick Bay, was once again included on Condé Nast Traveler’s list of Top Travel Specialists - 2025 marks the 6th year in a row. Not only are we very proud of this recognition, but it brought Nick back to a fundamental question: why do we do what we do? Why Africa? Why safari? Why does it matter?

Read more at the link in bio.

#YourPrivateAfrica #TravelThatConnects #TopTravelSpecialists #CondéNastTraveler #TravelExperts #TravelRecognition #CNTraveler #ExploreAfrica #LuxuryTravel #TravelPassion

Mar 10

Traveling to Africa as a family is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. We were thrilled to receive this shining feedback from the Keasling family who explored Kenya and Tanzania together.

‘From the moment we landed, every detail was seamless. The wildlife, the landscapes, the people...everything took our breath away. It was truly the trip of a lifetime, and the memories will stay with us forever.’

Thank you for letting us be part of your unforgettable adventure!

#YourPrivateAfrica #TravelThatConnects #AfricanAdventure #AmazingAfrica #TanzaniaSafari #VisitAfrica #LuxuryExperiences #TripInAfrica #AfricaTour #SafariGuide

Mar 6

We say it all the time, you can bring your little ones on your trip to Africa. But let’s be real—it does take a little extra planning. Over the years, we’ve found a few key “add-ons” that make all the difference:

- Booking a private charter makes flights smoother and stress-free, avoiding long waits and busy airports.
- Bringing an au pair can be a game-changer; extra hands without compromising quality family time. We can sometimes assist with finding help.
- Choosing a private villa means plenty of space and privacy, so kids can play freely without worrying about other guests.
- Or, a child-friendly lodge offers thoughtful staff and fun facilities that enhance their whole bush experience.

A few small things to pack…
- Familiar snacks or a go-to sauce they’ll eat anything with (@iamalexisjames crisis sauce!).
- Small toys or travel-friendly distractions for game drives and flights.

With the right setup, Africa becomes the ultimate family adventure and we are the team to make it all come to life!

#YourPrivateAfrica #TravelThatConnects #FamilySafari #ExploringNature #TripPlanning #ExploreNewPlaces #AfricanNature #AfricaTrip

Mar 4

Africa isn't all safari you know?

We make sure to try out every place we recommend to our clients. That’s why we spend roughly 3 months of each year in Africa staying at new lodges, meeting the best of the private guides, diving around the islands, and boarding every flight option possible so we can give you peace of mind for your safari.

Hope you're planning your next adventure too?

#YourPrivateAfrica #TravelThatConnects #TravelDestination #TravelInspiration #TravelExperience #ExploreAfrica #TripInAfrica #ExploreTheUnknown

Feb 28

It’s incredible how one element can completely transform the bush. From lush and green to dry and golden, each environment offers a totally unique experience. We’ve seen both, and the jury is still out on which we prefer. What about you—emerald or amber? 💚🤎

#YourPrivateAfrica #TravelThatConnects #TravelDestination #TravelExperience #AfricanWildlife #TravelWithPurpose #SafariExperience #EmeraldSeason #AmberSeason #GreenSafari

Feb 26

Immersive travel goes beyond enriching your experience—it changes the way you connect with a place. As Ashley said, ‘When you experience something, you care about it differently.’ The same can be said for our experience with the incredible local Maasai Women in Kenya. Understanding their way of life, the reasons behind their rituals, and gaining a deeper respect for the diverse ethnicities across Africa left us with a newfound appreciation for these beautiful traditions.

📸 @chrisjoubert

#YourPrivateAfrica #TravelThatConnects #ImmersiveTravel #CultureExploration #TravelEnrichment #MindfulTravel #AfricanCultures #ResponsibleTravel #TravelWithPurpose #TravelInspiration #TravelExperience #AmazingAfrica #Masaai #AfricanTraditions #KenyanCulture

Feb 23

Looking ahead with excitement! Here’s what’s on YPA’s YES-List for the next 10 years:

- Exploring new ways to immerse travelers in Africa’s wonders.
- Deepening our commitment to sustainability and supporting local communities.
- Building meaningful connections that last far beyond just one safari.
- Keeping travel joyful, fulfilling, and fun—because life’s too short not to enjoy the journey.

Here’s to adventures that matter.

#YourPrivateAfrica #TravelThatConnects #SafariDreams #SustainableTravel #LoveForAfrica #TravelAfrica #AfricanWildlife #DiscoverWildlife #NaturalWonder #AfricaTravel #TravelWithPurpose #LuxTravel #PrivateGuide #AfricanAdventure #AuthenticTravel #ExploreTheUnknown

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

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