Behind the Journey: How Your African Adventure Comes to Life with Travel African Time
An African journey does not begin at the airport.
It begins with a conversation — a moment when a dream, an idea, or a long-held wish is shared. From that very first interaction, our role at Travel African Time is clear: to carry the responsibility of your journey, so you are free to focus on the excitement, anticipation, and wonder of what lies ahead.
Africa is extraordinary, but it is also complex. Distances are vast, logistics are layered, and availability is limited - particularly for the most sought-after lodges, camps, and experiences. This is why our work happens long before you ever set foot on African soil.
Here is a look inside our world, and how your journey unfolds - from first enquiry to safe return home.
Step One: Your Enquiry - Where the Journey Begins
Whether you reach out via our website, by referral, email, or social media, every journey begins the same way: with listening.
At this stage, there is no pressure and no obligation. Our focus is on understanding you - your travel style, preferred pace, expectations, and the moments that matter most to you. This is why we often recommend a consultation call or a detailed exchange of information before any itinerary is designed.
Africa does not lend itself to templates. Every journey we curate is bespoke, and the foundation of that process is asking the right questions - and taking the time to truly understand your vision.
Step Two: Designing Your Journey - Precision Before Price
Once we understand your vision, we begin designing your journey.
This phase is where experience matters most. We carefully consider:
- Seasonal wildlife movements
- Logical routing between regions
- Travel times and internal connections
- Lodge style, size, and atmosphere
- Availability across multiple suppliers
- Currency considerations and long-term value
In Africa, availability is dynamic. Lodges and camps operate with limited space, and internal flights must be carefully coordinated. During this stage, we may place provisional holds to protect strong options while your itinerary is refined. Your proposal is never rushed. It is curated with intention, checked for feasibility, and refined until it reflects the journey you envisioned - beautifully balanced, seamless, and realistic.
Step Three: Confirmation & Deposits - Securing the Experience
Once you are happy to proceed, we move into confirmation. African travel operates on limited inventory, particularly during peak safari seasons. Deposits are required by suppliers to secure accommodations, internal flights, and services - ensuring availability is protected and your journey is formally confirmed.
At this stage, you can expect:
- Clear payment schedules
- Transparent invoicing
- Written confirmations
- Multiple internal checks before anything is finalised
Nothing proceeds without your approval. Our role is to guide you through this process with clarity, confidence, and complete transparency.
Step Four: Pre-Travel - From Confirmed to Cared For
After confirmation, your journey enters one of the most important phases: preparation.
During this time, our operations team works quietly behind the scenes to:
- Compile your travel documentation and vouchers
- Collect final travel details
- Reconfirm all services with suppliers
- Prepare emergency contact information
- Conduct pre-travel and 72-hour departure checks
- Complete flight check-ins for all flights booked as part of your journey, where permitted by the airline
By the time you depart, everything has been reviewed, reconfirmed, and aligned - often more than once - allowing you to focus purely on the excitement of what lies ahead.
Step Five: While You Travel - We’re Still With You
Although your journey may feel wonderfully independent, you are never travelling alone.
While you are in Africa - and in transit - our team remains available to assist with:
- Schedule adjustments
- On-the-ground coordination
- Unexpected changes
- Flight-related support for tickets issued as part of your journey
- Peace of mind should anything arise
We work closely with our airline partners and trusted local suppliers to ensure continuity and support throughout your travels.
Step Six: Home Again - Because the Journey Doesn’t End at Landing
For us, the journey is not complete when your plane touches down at home.
We check in to ensure you arrived safely, reconnect to hear your highlights, and gather feedback - not simply to review logistics, but to understand the moments that moved you, surprised you, and stayed with you.
Many of our guests return to Africa with us again. This ongoing relationship is something we value deeply.
Travel with Purpose
South Africa is a leader in sustainable tourism, placing equal value on protecting wilderness and uplifting communities. When you travel with Travel African Time, your journey becomes part of this important story.
Through our carefully selected partners, you may:
- Support rhino conservation projects in Kruger National Park.
- Connect with artisans in rural villages, helping preserve traditional skills.
- Travel consciously, leaving a legacy of respect for nature and community.
South Africa is captivating year-round, with each season revealing something new:
- May to September (dry winter): Prime safari season, when wildlife gathers near scarce water sources for exceptional sightings.
- November to March (lush summer): Perfect for coastal escapes, wildflower displays, and landscapes transformed into vibrant green.
Our Journey Curators ensure your itinerary is perfectly timed to align with the season and your personal travel style.
Why This Process Matters
Africa deserves to be experienced thoughtfully.
A well-curated journey allows you to be fully present - to absorb the landscapes, the wildlife, the cultures, and the stillness that makes this continent so powerful.
At Travel African Time, we plan with care, protect your experience, and remain present long after the booking is complete.
When you are ready to dream again, Africa - and Travel African Time - will be ready to welcome you.
Travel with purpose. Conserve with passion.
Begin your South African journey with us.
Travel African Time – Luxury travel, curated with purpose.
