Signature Safaris - African Encounters
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Signature Safaris

My Signature Safaris are exclusive small-group adventures in East Africa and Southern Africa that are personally hosted by me, Karen Platzer, the founder and director of African Encounters. In more than 30 years of travel in Africa, I’ve discovered some true gems tucked away from the main tourist routes, and I’d love to share them with you. Come join me and experience the magic of Africa!

Lion & cubs Kenya
12 - 26 June 2025

Kenya’s Private Conservancies
Experience a side of Kenya few tourists see

Enjoy an authentic wilderness experience and cultural encounters – up close and personal - when staying in Kenya's private conservancies! 
(2 Reviews)
FromUS$11,708
Thawale Majete Wildlife Reserve Safari Malawi
20 - 29 October 2024

Magical Malawi
the warm heart of Africa

Malawi, a little-known gem in southern Africa, has so much to offer visitors: wildlife, culture, scenery, and, of course, crystal-clear Lake Malawi with its gorgeous sandy beaches.
(1 Review)
FromUS$7,066
lions and vehicle Kenya
5 - 20 October 2024 - FULL!

Tanzania & Kenya
Ngorongoro, Serengeti, Laikipia, Samburu, Maasai Mara

Explore Tanzania's Ngorongoro Crater and the Serengeti, as well as the Maasai Mara, Laikipia and Samburu in remote northern Kenya. Stay in intimate luxury safari camps in private conservancies for exceptional game viewing without the crowds.
(1 Review)
FromUS$11,805
baby zebra serengeti
19 - 25 February 2024

Tanzania: Migration Calving Season

It's perhaps the greatest spectacle of the Serengeti - the migration few know about. It's calving season in the southern Serengeti for wildebeest, zebra, and antelopes.
(2 Reviews)
FromUS$6,038
elephants hwange
22 - 31 May 2024 - FULL!

Botswana & Zimbabwe

Our wonderful small camps on our May 2024 Botswana and Zimbabwe safari are full and bookings are closed! We still have availability on our November Botswana, Zambia & Zimbabwe safari.
(2 Reviews)
FromUS$9,383
Victoria Falls Botswana, Zambia & Zimbabwe
2-11 November 2024

Zimbabwe, Zambia & Botswana

Botswana, Zambia, & Zimbabwe are southern Africa's crown jewels. Experience the Okavango Delta, Victoria Falls and spectacular sunsets on the mighty Zambezi River. This small group safari is an authentic African experience with exceptional game viewing, community and conservation, and luxury small safari camps!
(1 Review)
FromUS$9,169
canoeing with elephants Zambia
21 - 31 October 2024

Wild Zambia

Zambia has long been a favourite destination for safari connoisseurs. Its wonderful parks see far fewer crowds than their counterparts in other countries and you’ll seldom see another vehicle on your game drives. South Luangwa's Valley of the Leopards, and is one of the best places in Africa to see these elusive big cats!
(1 Review)
FromUS$10,218
leopard ruaha tanzania
28 Sep - 5 Oct 2024

Tanzania’s Secret South

Venture off the beaten track in Tanzania's Secret South on guided walks, day and night game drives, boating and fishing in Ruaha and Nyerere parks. Tanzania’s vast southern areas are remote and wild.
(2 Reviews)
FromUS$6,985