South Africa family safari research trip

posted 6th December 2025 by Danica Wilson in Family travel
Estimated reading time: 2 minutes

Behind the scenes of our South Africa family safari adventure

Follow the Wilson family as we wander through South Africa on a six-week journey combining family safari adventures with professional camp and lodge inspections, activity testing and conservation experiences. A behind-the-scenes look at how we uphold Encompass Africa’s high standards across the continent.

Wilson wandering: the adventure begins

So we’re now officially on the road, first stop is a night in Sydney so tomorrow morning we can get up and walk across the road from Rydges to the International Airport and check in for our Qantas flight direct to Johannesburg.

Then, for the next six weeks, we are travelling through South Africa on a journey that blends family time with the work we love.. exploring new safari properties, revisiting old favourites that have been renovated or changed hands, and keeping our finger firmly on the pulse of what’s happening across the industry.

This isn’t a typical holiday itinerary, and we wouldn’t expect anyone else to attempt it. It’s a fast-paced mix of long drives (yep it’s a road trip) property inspections, activity testing and conservation experiences woven around precious time together as a family. But that’s exactly what makes it special, and we want to bring you along for the adventure.

Over the coming weeks, we’ll share highlights from the road: the newest luxury safari camps, refreshed lodges we’re thrilled to see evolving, standout guides and wildlife moments, and behind-the-scenes insights into what it takes to maintain the high standards Encompass Africa is known for.

Join us as the Wilsons wander South Africa, discovering, learning and being inspired every step of the way.

See our itinerary