Hearing the World’s Heartbeat

Meet the Thandeka Team!

We started Thandeka to curate exceptional, luxurious experiences that immerse travellers in new, exotic places. We are passionate about creating journeys that will open eyes, touch hearts, and forge new friendships. We know that the best trips are those in which stay with you, in spirit and soul, long after you’re gone.

Erin Summe, FounderErin went to South Africa in 2008 to work with HIV positive youth and quickly fell in love with the continent. She worked for Grassroot Soccer in the informal settlement of Khayelitsha and has remained committed to conservation, j…

Erin Summe-Whitehead Founder

Erin founded Thandeka in 2017 after having travelled extensively around the world. She has lived in Cape Town, London, Hong Kong and Mexico City, and now resides in NYC. Erin feels most alive when she is in new places and engaged with kind people, rich cultures, and adventurous landscapes.

Neil Dampier Managing Director

Neil is an expert in wildlife and has been guiding safaris throughout Africa, his home, for over 20 years. He is an avid world traveller and enjoys planning high end trips that include rare and unique animal encounters. He is based in Washington DC and is passionate about conservation.

Karla Groenewald Head of Operations

Karla is here to support all your needs, both before and during your trip. She loves finding the “secret gems” in every country and has spent most of her career crafting exceptional trips. You’ll find her behind the scenes making sure to cross every “t” and dot every “i” to ensure a seamless trip.