African Essence :: About Us ::

“African Essence was born out of the desire to share precious places and special experiences with others and to promote responsible tourism and nature conservation in southern Africa. We specialise in wildlife & nature experiences, art and cultural adventures, active endeavours & getting off the beaten track.”
- Vanessa Nixon, Founder

Whether you seek to indulge your adventurous spirit or pamper your soul, our extensive knowledge and rapport with Africa can make your visit a special experience you will always remember.

African Essence is an owner-operated business offering personalised safaris for the discerning traveller, who would like to feel the pulse of Africa. Guides have an intimate knowledge of travelling in Africa and are passionate about the continent they live in. Small groups (generally 2 - 6 persons) enhance your experience and get you closer to the ‘real Africa’.

We avoid the crowds and stay at lovely private places. We are flexible, allowing your personal adventure to go the way you enjoy it. We pride ourselves on providing value, no matter what your budget. We can focus on your area of interest e.g. meeting South African artists, birding, hiking, mountain biking through the wilderness and township tours by bicycle, etc.

Each tour takes place at the ideal time of the year for the area and activities.

WE OFFER:
Guided tours as well as self-drive trips and fly-in safaris. We know many fabulous getaways for honeymoons, family holidays (we can organise activities and care for youngsters), varying from peaceful hideaways or places for party animals!

Join one of our scheduled trips or let us design a custom safari.

Choose your preferred style: 'Down to Earth' camping trips, a 5 Star Luxury Safari or an 'Adventure Blend Safari' which incorporates elements of the other two as well as unique and unusual places.

Discover that adventure and creature comforts can go hand in hand!

FROM THE AFRICAN ESSENCE GUEST BOOK:

"We feel so fortunate to have begun our adventure with you. Your passion for the country and the people of South Africa and your intimate knowledge of the place allowed us to enter the heart and soul of South Africa and feel the pulse of the place."
- Tamyra, USA, Cape Peninsula tour, July 2002.

“You have changed our way of travel forever! The South African & Namibian trip you arranged was magnificent.”
- Lisa Hinson & Frank Kunc, Santa Fe, USA, Jan – April 2003

“Thank you so much for an extraordinary day! It felt like spending a day with family; not like a tour at all!"
- Deborah & Richard Casillas, Santa Fe, USA, Jan 2003