CONTENTS 2 Introduction 4
Evolution of the African Safari
6
Introduction to Private Guiding
10
Our Take on Conservation
12
Unique Experiences
14
Specialised Safaris
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Bells and Whistles
‘Born in Africa, I am blessed to be part of a continent like no other. For so many arriving into Africa for the first time, you immediately feel like your soul belongs here, and during the course of your journey, she will steal your heart as you fall in love with her. Our history is intriguing. From the mysterious rock churches of Lalibela, the ancient pyramids of Egypt, to the reshuffling of the earth’s plates to create Ngorogoro Crater, Great Rift Valley and the Okavango Delta, to list a few. All of this creates a natural oasis for wildlife and their migrations across terrains. And then, of course, there are the colours and sounds of our many cultures, each with their own traditions that will leave you on the edge of your seat, eager for more of their captivating stories. Combine this with breathtakingly beautiful landscapes that haven’t changed at all over centuries, and you will start to understand my love of Africa and why it is most definitely worth visiting, not just once, but over and over again. Africa won’t let you forget her gentle sounds of tranquillity, and her absolute beauty. Africans won’t let you forget how friendly and accommodating we are. And as for our wildlife, well there is simply nothing more beautiful than the sight of wildlife on the great plains roaming free.
JANINE SOUTHWOOD To fully describe my love of Africa and how it captivates me would be the start of an incredibly long story. Instead, within the pages of this catalogue, we have attempted to capture just a snapshot of this glorious destination. Let Africa touch your soul. Janine Southwood – Head of Personal Collection
INTRODUCTION Africa... A word that conjures a million images in the mind of intrepid travellers the world over – breathtaking landscapes, fascinating ancient cultures, wide savannahs dotted with iconic wildlife, snow-capped mountains, vast deserts, palm-fringed beaches... Africa is the birthplace of humankind, where we all began. It's a continent that gets under your skin and speaks to your soul, filled with mind-boggling diversity and a wealth of delightful contradictions, where no two days are ever the same. It's the unending inspiration for Personal Collection by Thompsons Africa – our unique tribute to the land we call ‘home’, that brings you a range of customised travel options designed to help you explore some of the most magical destinations Africa has to offer.
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INTRODUCTION TO PRIVATE GUIDING Make the most of your safari with a private guide, who will tailor an itinerary to your specifications, leaving you free to enjoy every single minute of the journey. All of our private guides have been handpicked based on their qualifications, experience, in-depth knowledge and incredible passion for Africa, all of which will help to take your safari to the next level.
WHY HAVE A PRIVATE GUIDE?
dreamed possible about each place that
Forget stressing about whether the lodge
you visit and each face that greets you. This
or camp you have chosen will live up to
enthusiasm and deep understanding will open
expectations and leave the aggravations of
your eyes to an Africa you never even knew
sticking to a complex itinerary to someone
existed and will leave you wanting to return
else. With a private guide, there’s no need to
again and again.
worry about flight times, transfers and getting to the airstrip on time as everything will be
...AND EXPERIENCE
taken care of, meaning that you are free to
Years of travelling Africa’s incredible wild
absorb everything you see and experience
places, devoted to learning about both its
and
vibrant cultures and iconic wildlife and guiding
appreciate
the
nuances
you
may
otherwise miss.
at the highest levels, are what a private guide brings to your safari. This experience gives
IT’S ABOUT KNOWLEDGE...
rise to ultimate professionalism, extreme
A private guide’s knowledge and passion
composure and unsurpassed competency,
for sharing everything that makes Africa so
leaving you assured that you are in the best
special adds a unique dimension to your
hands possible.
safari, allowing you to learn more than you
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IT’S ABOUT CONSISTENCY... You may be travelling to a host of different lodges and destinations across Africa, but your private guide will ensure that everything runs smoothly, consistently and without the need for repetition. Your private guide will be familiar with your interests, what you’ve already seen and what you want to see and will work with everyone on your journey to ensure that you have the ultimate safari experience.
...AND PERSONAL SERVICE Hours and hours of planning go into a safari, but once you arrive the days seem to fly by. Your private safari guide will help to maximise every moment you have in the bush and their years of experience in 5-star lodges gives them an in-depth understanding of lodge operations, enabling them to work with the camps and lodges you stay at to create a truly extraordinary experience. Your private safari guide is also available to you throughout the day, and is on-hand to help with editing photographs, answer any questions and generally help make your safari as memorable as it can be.
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IT’S ABOUT PEACE OF MIND...
IT’S ABOUT CHOICE...
Knowing that you’ll be in the hands of an African expert, who will meet you
Personal Collection, have, over the years formed partnerships with some of the
on arrival and accompany you throughout your journey, is one of the greatest
continents finest guides and photographers. Their knowledge of flora and fauna,
advantages a private safari guide can give you. Your guide is on hand throughout
history and most of all, Africa’s animals, will amaze you. We have carefully selected
your safari to manage any issues that may arise, ensure smooth transitions
some guides that we know will lead you on a safari with not only expertise of
between destinations and alleviate the worry of handling sometimes challenging
guiding but together with passion that will have you booking them over and over
logistics.
again.
...AND HAVING FUN
Private guides can either tailor an itinerary especially to suit your interests, or
More than anything, your private safari guide is there to make sure you enjoy the
you can join one of their specialised, privately guided safaris. Our fully qualified
most thrilling, wonderful and eye-opening authentic African experience possible.
private guides are hand-picked for their in-depth knowledge, considerable
You’ll learn about Africa’s wildlife, people and cultures in a fun and engaging way
experience and limitless passion for what they do, allowing you to take your
and you will build up a wonderful rapport with your private guide, as they share
safari to the next level and create incredible lifelong memories.
the incredible knowledge they have acquired. With entertaining fireside stories, your private safari guide will also appreciate that time with family, friends and loved ones is important. This is all about you, and making sure that you have the ultimate African experience.
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OUR TAKE ON CONSERVATION We are so privileged to reside in a continent as beautiful as Africa. As ambassadors
BLOOD LIONS
of our beautiful Earth, we in the tourism sector, have a particular responsibility to
The Blood Lions Goal is to bring an end to canned hunting and the exploitative
ensure we take care of our continent and leave her in the condition we found her
breeding of lions and other predators on farms across South Africa. The award
in for the generations to come. Her beauty is made up of pure endless landscapes
winning Blood Lions® feature documentary premiered in 2015. At the same time
occupied by plentiful and beautiful creatures of all shapes and sizes, as well as
the Blood Lions Campaign was launched to create global awareness around the
magnificent jaw dropping waterfalls and mountain ranges. Our goal is to show off
captive predator breeding, canned hunting and lion bone industries as well as
her beauty to every traveller. And we are so blessed to be the caretakers of an
the related exploitative wildlife interactive tourism practices. Furthermore, the
abundance of wildlife that brings so many travellers to our shores. But first and
campaign encourages viewers of the film, visitors to Africa and followers on social
foremost we need to ensure our footprint preserves our unique vast Africa.
media to make responsible choices about visiting or supporting wildlife interactive tourism facilities and activities. Through awareness and by reducing demand for
Personal Collection proudly associates our brand with partners and products that
exploitative products, the campaign aims to bring an end to the exploitation of
put conservation and the environment at the forefront of their business model.
captive-bred wild animals.
Our compassion for wildlife and their environments is our first love. We join forces with organisations that are vocal with their fights to “protect and preserve”. To
PANGOLIN AFRICA
name just a few of the organisations we have joined forces with:
Pangolin Africa is a non-profit organisation dedicated to the survival of the most highly trafficked wildlife species on the continent – the African Pangolin. Through
TREADRIGHT
our three-pronged approach of Publicity, Participation and Protection we are
We are a proud member of the TreadRight Foundation, a non-profit foundation
working with partners in the tourism, conservation and corporate fields to increase
promoting sustainable tourism within our own family brands. TreadRight is Personal
education and awareness around all four African pangolin species; contribute
Collection by Thompsons Africa’s vehicle for all corporate social responsibility
towards much-needed research; and implement protection and rehabilitation
efforts, and manages a long-standing grants program that benefits sustainable
projects on the ground. We also play an integral role in bringing together and
tourism projects. To date, TreadRight has committed more than USD 2million to
supporting other individuals and organisations across Africa who are working in
projects worldwide, and encourages industry best practice through their support
the pangolin conservation space.
for the World Travel & Tourism Council’s Tourism for Tomorrow Awards, The Travel Foundation & Tourism Cares. TreadRight has helped support some 40 sustainable
Personal Collection does not support any wildlife interaction that we deem to be
tourism projects worldwide and in Africa, helps to support WildAid, The Wilderness
unethical in either its purpose or in any way results in cruelty as a side effect.
Foundation, Bushmans Kloof Rock Art, Clanwilliam Cedar Trees, The Cape Leopard
We encourage our customers to consider this when requesting activities in our
Trust and the Endangered Wildlife Trust.
quotations.
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UNIQUE EXPERIENCES Our journeys to Africa offer far more than just exciting destinations, they offer
Africa offers a myriad adventure and exciting opportunities. Our Africa Specialists
life-enriching experiences. When you arrive at your chosen destination, we want
have put together a selection of unique experiences, every one hand-crafted
to ensure you truly live that destination to the fullest; giving you the freedom
around a person’s particular travel dreams. These experiences will teach you
to completely immerse yourself in Africa and capture the true essence of that
whatever you’d like to learn, whether it’s how to surf the waves or cook like a
specific location, while absorbing the culture of both people and place.
local. If you’d enjoy a really immersive African experience, connecting with the people and the wildlife that the continent is so famous for, we have a stunning
We want to connect you to Africa in ways you would never have thought possible,
selection of packages that we can tailor make especially for you. Plant a tree,
through individually tailored activities and unique experiences that will change
build a local home, or put up a fence to protect wildlife. Use your profession or
the way you view the world around you. These activities are impactful, both
skills to assist less privileged communities, or get involved in actively assisting
emotionally and spiritually, and perhaps physically too. We keep it simple but
endangered species and conserving wildlife.
exciting. “The biggest adventure you can take is to live the life of your dreams” These are the things you won’t find in a brochure or online - the incredible feeling
- Oprah Winfrey
of walking through a remote village, interacting with a local community, making your own wine, or sleeping out under the velvet canopy of the Milky Way.
Discover new horizons in this sought-after adventure destination, whether it’s hiking, trail running or mountain biking through some of the world’s most
This is our way of encouraging travellers to step away from everyday life as
breathtaking scenery, enjoying the ultimate adventure – a Big Five safari – in
we know it and engage ‘Mind, Body & Soul’. Invariably you will not just see life
either game viewing vehicles or on foot. Cycle across magnificent savannahs or
differently, but will also get to tick experiences off your Bucket List with a sense of
galloping on horseback through the spectacular Okavango Delta, watch predators
achievement and satisfaction.
on a kill from the safety of your four by four vehicle… we can take you further than you’ve ever been before. And that’s just a taste of what’s in store when you travel
“You know you are truly alive when you’re living among lions.” - Karen Blixen
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with us on one of our incredible hand-crafted adventures.
SPECIALISED SAFARIS Africa offers a wide selection of diverse safaris. Over the years, Personal Collection’s safari experiences have evolved from a simple offering involving a game drive to track the Big Five to so much more. Choose a specialised safari experience that suits your specific requirements. Whether it involves a luxury package travelling from one reserve to the next in style, or an exclusive honeymoon safari adventure, we will tailor-make the perfect experience for you. Keen to take stunning wildlife photographs? We can arrange a specialised wildlife photographer guide who will show you how to take the perfect picture in an African setting. Prefer to travel independently? We can create a perfect solo itinerary for you. Travelling with family is priceless and offers wonderful opportunities to collect memories and stories you will share for years to come. Personal Collection will tailor-make a bespoke trip for your family, a safari that will connect you as a family.
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CHARTERED SAFARIS
glittering cities below you. You’re on an adventure,
Boarding an aircraft that has been exclusively booked
which comes complete with being pampered with
to fly you from one destination to the next is a unique
food and drink in the comfort of your seat. This is
experience. You miss the long wait as well as queues
what a Private Charter is all about.
at check-in and when boarding, there are no layovers at airports and you’re unlikely to ever miss a flight.
Ready, set, lift off… Personal Collection has a variety
Instead, you are travelling at leisure and in style,
of options to fit a guest’s budget. We offer fully
which is the perfect experience to complement any
licensed and maintained private aircraft to suit the
journey. Your mindset moves from ‘affordability’ to
particular journey, whether it’s a Cessna Caravan or
‘accessibility’ – this equates to saving time and also
a twin-seater helicopter for photography. There are
offers a travel experience without interruptions, a
also executive options – the Pilatus PC12, single
synergy between ground, air and hospitality services.
engine, pressurised, turbo-propelled aircraft with
We suggest a Private Charter because we know that
a pilot or the Beechcraft King Air 200, twin engine,
it will be a smooth transition from one part of your
pressurised, turbo-prop aircraft with two pilots.
travel experience to the next. The options are as extensive. We can tailor your Private Adventure. Imagine a bird’s eye view. This is an
Charter to suit your budget, without compromising
exceptional and privileged experience if you’re on
on comfort or safety. Our partner aviation specialists
safari, travelling in Africa. The whole point of having a
can offer anything from a Safari Charter to a truly
dedicated aircraft and crew at your personal disposal
executive Private Charter experience, one that
is even more alluring when you’re 30,000 feet up in
complements Personal Collection’s on-the-ground
the air, enjoying 360-degree panoramic views of the
support and services. All this, to ensure your African
African landscape, beautiful white sand beaches or
journey is hassle-free and truly memorable.
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HONEYMOONS
are wedged between scenic mountain peaks and dotted with historic wineries.
Africa has it all: iconic wildlife, epic landscapes, ancient wonders and an incredible
Explore the country’s most charming historical wineries at leisure, sample some
variety of cultures that have intrigued intrepid adventurers for centuries. To add
of the cellars’ best vintages, and experience the lifestyle of one of the world’s
to its appeal, this vast and beautiful continent also has its sweet side; it’s a perfect
premier wine regions.
location for newlyweds wanting to experience the ultimate romantic getaway on a honeymoon. This type of holiday is arguably a once-in-a-lifetime experience, so why not make it unforgettable?
There’s also stunning Cape Town, with its sights, scents, sounds and the iconic 8th Wonder of the World, Table Mountain, its turquoise waters and numerous luxurious hotels. Complement all of this with world class cuisine and you’ll find
For the more spirited honeymooners seeking an adventurous getaway, a good option is an exclusive experience at one of Southern Africa’s game reserves, where
that Cape Town unabashedly lives up to its reputation as a truly cosmopolitan and glamorous city.
you can languish in an outdoor bubble bath or hear the lions roar at night while glamping it in your private hideaway. Embark on game drives and have sundowners
The gorgeous coastal nation of Mozambique has all the ingredients for a perfect
in the middle of nowhere. Your privacy is our priority and your comfort, our promise.
beach getaway. Nestled on a tranquil bay looking out over the Indian Ocean,
Daytime provides opportunities for some self-indulgence: relax with a book at the
the pace of life is slow as syrup and the ocean air is filled with the scent of fresh
poolside, enjoy an afternoon siesta or book a pampering spa treatment to pacify
grilled lobster. Mozambique is home to one of Africa’s most responsible and
your soul. After all of these spoils, feed your appetite with delectables from the High
sustainable marine tourism industries. Spend lazy days on the beach, perhaps
Tea offerings before heading out on a scenic sunset game drive.
after a few nights in the South African bush.
Why not opt for the rugged mountains and rolling vineyards of South Africa’s Cape
The options are endless and the romance unforgettable.
Winelands for your honeymoon? The green valleys that make up the Winelands
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PHOTOGRAPHIC SAFARIS
These specialised Photographic Safaris can be
Photographic Safaris offer an experience
enjoyed on a game vehicle or boat that has been
like no other. They give you the opportunity
specifically adapted for cameras and provides
to take a regular safari to the next level,
extra room for equipment and extended booms
combining
with
and include the guidance of a professional guide.
adventure and creativity. Capture the finest
Various elements and principles of photography
wildlife photography while enhancing your
will be discussed throughout the Photographic
photographic ability by focusing on technical
Safari, including important factors such as lighting,
and practical skills during a selection of
backlighting, action shots, space, composition,
exciting game drives. This safari experience
shooting techniques and panning. An important
is designed for those enthusiasts who venture
aspect of photography that is essential to this
out as amateur photographers, but will learn
particular type of photographic experience is
the skills of the professionals. Where better to
vehicle placement and animal behaviour. This is
be the best photographer you can be than in
why it is vital that you are provided with a guide
the natural environment of the organic African
who has the level of expertise to be able to assist
bush? Our locations in Africa are some of the
you. A Photographic Safari comes at a premium
finest travel destinations offering dramatic
price, but it offers some of the most exclusive
photographic experiences.
wildlife
a
focused
environment
in Africa.
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photography
experiences
available
FAMILY TRAVEL
At Personal Collection we believe that Family Travel is the benchmark of quality
“Travelling in the Company of those we love is Home in Motion”
family time. Travelling as a family in Africa presents the perfect opportunity for kids to learn the importance of nature and wildlife and how we all co-exist. It is
Today, family travel has evolved to encompass different experiences that cater to
a fun-filled holiday with an education, showcasing life as we live it, appreciate it
everybody, from grandparents all the way down through the generations to their
and nurture it together.
youngest 6-year-old grandchild. It gives parents the opportunity to disconnect from their daily routine, explore unchartered territory with family in tow and enjoy
SOLO TRAVEL
numerous options for adventure as a unit.
Standing true to the ideology of Solo Travel we at Personal Collection assist in curating Solo Travel experiences that are completely off the beaten track,
When it comes to Family Travel, nothing beats an African adventure. The delight
uncovering Africa’s hidden gems and offering experiences in magnificent natural
and appreciation of seeing wildlife up close, or meerkats bobbing in and out of
settings, all with one goal in mind – to give the Solo Artist a soulful journey with
their little burrows is unmatched. Appreciating the undulating African landscape
memories that will last a lifetime.
from the vantage point of a hot air balloon is a bucket list experience, as is watching the children’s wonder and excitement when they receive their first
With a G&T in hand, scour through our website to find your bucket list adventures.
‘Little Ranger’ certificates.
When you’ve chosen what you want, contact us, your African Specialists, to tailor a journey that will satiate your soul and your personal legacy, an opportunity to
Africa is an untouched paradise, with so much to do and see. It literally offers
leave your footprint behind in Africa.
the ultimate family holiday experience. Travelling together gives families the opportunity to create memorable moments across generations. This is
Whether you are an active or not-so-active Solo Artist, Personal Collection offers
how memories are made. These reflections make us realise that those often-
a multitude of experiences that will resonate with your passion. Take the leap into
overlooked moments are life’s real treasures, and family time, both at home and
an unforgettable African Adventure with us.
away, should never be taken for granted.
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BELLS & WHISTLES There’s a holiday…and then there’s ‘Personal Collection’. An out of this world-class
Private Safari Guides – We work with some of the best in the business and will
travel concept finely crafted and honed by Personal Collection by Thompsons
hand pick a guide/s to accompany guests throughout their safari. Our guides
Africa.
will assist in every way possible – whether it be local history or geographical information, conservation questions or purely assistance with steps along the
Our ‘Personal Collection’ invites you to set foot on African soil and leave the finer
way.
detail to us. Snacks and drinks on transfers – For all transfers we provide guests with a list of Multiple layers of luxury, seamless levels of service, and the most sublime
drinks and snacks to choose from.
accommodation and extraordinary adventures that only Africa has to offer. Immediate hotel check ins – For guests arriving on early flights, we will confirm Experience unimaginably romantic world-class game lodges in the heart of the
early check in’s so that guests can freshen up and begin to relax from the minute
African bush, with sumptuous cuisine. Dine under the stars, shower under the
go.
sun, and sip sundowners in unforgettable settings. Arrive in style and step onto red carpets whilst Champagne awaits… you name it, we will do all we can do
Tipping and porterage – Tipping in a foreign country can be confusing. We
deliver it.
eliminate the need by handling all the tipping. We arrange to prepay on the guest’s behalf.
Personal Collection allows you to design your journey by handpicking our given offerings. From this we will tailor-make your safari into the unforgettable journey
Exclusivity – Private transfers and private accommodation is, wherever possible,
that exceeds your expectation and deliver a superbly opulent safari experience.
available under our Bells & Whistles service.
Our guest profile questionnaire will assist us in ensuring guests are constantly surprised and delighted.
Accessories for a comfortable safari – We offer a few little accessories to add to the journey that will prepare guests perfectly to look the part and feel comfortable
OUR RANGE OF DELUXE OPTIONS Platinum Africa welcome – Your guests are met on arrival straight off the aircraft by our personnel who have official airport clearance to be there. Guests will therefore feel completely at ease, knowing they’ll be escorted from the moment they step onto African soil. Note this service is available only at selected airports.
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on safari – a winning Instagram post.
© Scott Ramsay
EXTRAS WE ALWAYS INCLUDE
conservation of the African Pangolin, the most
Personalised Surprise and Delights – In order
trafficked animal on earth. The organisation was
to ensure that, along their journey, your guests
founded in 2018 by Pangolin Photo Safaris, who
are constantly thrilled with special little touches,
has committed to funding the operational needs
we send you, prior to their arrival, a request for
of the NGO.
a guest profile so as to learn about their likes and dislikes. This information helps us enhance
Project Rhino – Project Rhino is an association
your guests’ experience, so we can surprise them
of leading conservation agencies, state and
with mementoes as wonderful keepsakes of their
community game reserves, rhino owners and
extraordinary time on tour.
anti-poaching specialists working together to conserve South Africa’s wildlife.
Luggage delay – Should luggage be delayed off international flights, we will have a back-up bag
Send a child to school for a year - Tholathando
for guests that will be equipped with toiletries and
Childrens Home - Tholuthando is a children’s
a change of clothing as well as a stress ball.
home based in the Embo/Ndada Community (KZN) and is home to approximately 52 children
Further to that we give guests the opportunity to
between the ages of 12 months to 18 years
play a small role in the growth and protection of Lionscape Coalition – The Lionscape Coalition
Africa.
allows Africa’s top tourism operators to take a Included in our safaris we give guests the option
leadership position to support on-the-ground
to pick one of the four below organisations and
conservation work and encourage clients to
(in their name) we will contribute.
support the future of lions.
Pangolin Africa – Pangolin Africa is a registered
‘Of Course’ – it’s the motto we live by.
non-profit
organisation
dedicated
to
the
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