Hearing Africa’s Heartbeat
Thandeka looks beyond what sets us apart and focuses on the humanity that bonds us together.
Every day there are a million missed opportunities in Africa as travelers rarely get to engage with the communities that breathe love and life into this special part of the planet. We started Thandeka to curate exceptional, luxurious wildlife experiences and bring new depth to safaris by connecting travelers with organizations they care about. Through carefully crafted journeys, we aim to nurture new partnerships and perspectives that will stay with you long after you’re gone.
Meet the Thandeka Tribe!
Vuyo Adoorns Guide
Vuyo was born and raised in South Africa, living through both the apartheid regime and its aftermath. His knowledge of historical facts is only matched by his infectious energy and shining smile. He loves meeting new people and sharing his home with the rest of the world.
Erin Summe Founder
Erin went to South Africa in 2008 to work in public health with Grassroot Soccer and quickly fell in love with the continent. She has since travelled extensively throughout the continent, discovering the best safari lodges, guides and organizations that enable African wildlife and people to thrive.
Neil Dampier Managing Director
Neil started guiding safaris in his native South Africa over 20 years ago. Since then he has gone on to work and travel extensively throughout Africa, planning high end safaris and connecting with impact experts. He is passionate about Africa, her people, wildlife and conservation.
Paul Togbah Guide
Paul was born and raised in Liberia, a country small in size but large in spirit! He is passionate about welcoming guests to this tropical corner of the world and showing off the country’s warmth and beauty. He loves the ocean, where you’ll often find him soaking in the surf.
Sindiso Khophe Guide
Sindiso is originally from Zimbabwe, and though she now lives in Joburg, her heart has never left Zim. Sindi’s kind and gracious nature embodies everything there is to love about her country. She looks forward to personally showing you the magic of her home.
Karla Groenewald Head of Operations
Karla is here to support all your needs, both before and during your trip. She resides in beautiful Namibia and has spent most of her career crafting exceptional safaris. You’ll find her behind the scenes making sure to cross every “t” and dot every “i” to ensure a seamless trip.
Sine Makoma Guide
Sinethemba is an entrepreneur from South Africa. He founded and runs “Dine With Khayelitsha”, a platform that bridges the gap between townships and cities by hosting conversational dinners to discuss issues of race and equality in local households.
