Get inspired!
If that sounds like your dream African safari, let’s make it happen!
Questions? Talk to someone who’s been there…
When we say small we mean up to 10 guests only. You’ll enjoy personal service and stay in our favourite luxury accommodations, each with with just 6-8 rooms, rather than a large mass-tourism resort.
We are an independent, New Zealand-owned, boutique tour operator specialising exclusively in travel to East- and Southern Africa for 35 years. We know Africa!
The private conservancies we stay in are community-owned, providing both employment and income, and we support local community and conservation projects in the areas you visit on your African safari.
Karen’s Signature Safaris, unique small group safaris in East and Southern Africa, are personally escorted by Karen Platzer, African Encounters founder. In my 35 years of living and traveling in Africa, I’ve found some real gems to share with my fellow travellers. I’ve infected many guests with my passion for this incredible continent and they keep returning for another African Encounters adventure!
View Karen's Safaris
Our Scheduled Departures run on set daily or weekly dates. Our trusted African suppliers share our philosophy of travelling in a small group, staying in superb camps in private conservancies away from the crowds, and supporting local communities and conservation projects. Professional local guides take great pride in sharing their knowledge and their culture with their guests.
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Do you have a special birthday or anniversary to celebrate? Maybe you have a particular interest in wildlife photography, bird watching or conservation? Or maybe our tour dates and itineraries don’t suit your travel plans. We can customise any of our African safaris to suit, or create a completely new itinerary for you to enjoy an amazing private safari with your friends and family.
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“At my stage in life (60+) I prefer travelling in comfort, so the opportunity to go glamping in Africa was very appealing.
Our first safari lunch under the trees was interrupted by a small elephant group wandering past. I was speechless!! The small group approach staying in private conservancies meant we were often the only spectators. I was on a high the whole time and although I am widely travelled, our trip to Botswana and Zimbabwe was the best!!
I was quite nervous about going to Africa but once I was there, I felt in very safe hands the whole time. Africa is magical! If you get the chance- go for it! African Encounters will deliver a truly memorable experience!”
