Monique Lange

*Featured in Condé Nast Traveler as a Top Travel Specialist* 

Having grown up in South Africa's scenic Kwa-Zulu Natal province, surrounded by game reserves and the beautiful beaches, lakes and estuaries of the Maputoland coastline – I was fortunate to spend lots of time exploring our nearby safari destinations, developing a great love for travelling, observation and discovery from the youngest age. Over the years my curiosity and interest has only grown, and I have travelled far and wide to see and learn as much as I can from our local people, our scenic landscapes and truly unique wildlife. From Tanzania's Serengeti to Botswana's Okavango Delta, Lake Malawi to Mozambique, Kruger to Cape Town, the Seychelles and Victoria Falls – my list continues to grow! 

Planning tailormade safari adventures has been an absolute dream come true for me – I love travel planning! I am also deeply passionate about education and conservation. It's very important that we all remain mindful of the important role going on safari plays in wildlife conservation and local community development – for a sustainable future, for all. 

I am based in Cape Town, South Africa where I live with my husband – who also shares my love for safari and travelling in Africa. We love camping and the outdoors, and often find ourselves exploring South Africa's east coast between Kwa-Zulu Natal and the Garden Route.  

Soulful Safari Reflection  

I've been incredibly fortunate to have had so many memorable wildlife sightings and experiences out in the bush. But, nothing could prepare me for what floating weightlessly across the Serengeti's endless plains would feel like, during my first-ever hot-air balloon flight. The sense of perspective you get from the sky is difficult to put into words – and I can only describe it as one of the greatest privileges I've ever had the pleasure of enjoying.  

Other special moments include seeing Victoria Falls for the first time, witnessing a Topi give birth in the Masai Mara, and waking up to views of Mount Kilimanjaro in Kenya.  

Most Memorable Experience Organised For A Client 

There are so many exciting safari activities that come to mind when considering this question – everything from romantic treehouse sleep-outs under the stars, to sunset river cruises along the Zambezi! But if I had to narrow it down to what I believe was most memorable for my clients, it would have to be a surprise scenic helicopter flight across the entire Cape Peninsula in South Africa. They had just completed a 21+ day tour of the country and arrived in Cape Town to have their activity booked and waiting for them. The weather was perfect, and they got to share their special experience with me over a glass of bubbly afterwards!  

My Best African Travel Advice  

Take the time to read up about the destination you are travelling to prior to departure. Understanding the country's background and history can provide such great insight into everything you'll see and experience when travelling in Africa for the first time. I also always recommend learning a few new words or phrases in the local language. It shows great respect, and you'll enjoy being able to connect with your local guide and hosts in their own language. 

 Planning your first trip to Africa can be quite overwhelming – and that's why we are here! But when it comes to deciding where to go and what you'd like to do – I always recommend choosing quality over quantity. Rather spend more time in fewer destinations to truly take in each location, fully – than moving from place to place to see as much as you can, within a limited amount of time. These extra logistics can become costly, and you could benefit far more from spending that on a better camp/lodge or a special activity.

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