This September, we celebrated 25 years of Hills of Africa, and it feels like the right moment to reflect on how far we’ve come and my favorite parts of my incredible career of making dreams! And after 25 years, I’ve realized something: as much as I love it, the magic for me isn’t just in planning the perfect itinerary from my desk in the States. The real magic for me is being there with you, on the ground, watching your face light up when you see your first elephant in the wild or taste your first bite of bobotie prepared by a local chef.
From Planning to Living the Journey
When I started this business, my promise was simple: I wanted every client to feel looked after from the moment they reached out to us until long after they returned home. Over the years, I’ve done everything from creating customized tipping guides to literally visiting clients’ homes to help them pack for their first international trip. I’ve arranged for someone to meet nervous first-time travelers at the airport, guiding them through customs so they could start their adventure with confidence rather than anxiety.
These details matter. They transform what could be daunting into something thrilling.
But after working on thousands of trips over two decades, I wanted something more. I wanted to be there with you, to share my Africa with you in real time, to make adjustments on the fly that turn a wonderful safari into an unforgettable one.
That’s why we created Wander.
What Makes Wander Different
Our Wander experiences are intimate by design, just 12 travelers. This isn’t about herding a crowd from place to place. It’s about creating space for genuine connection, both with the destination and with each other.
When I’m on safari with you, I can do things I could never do from behind the computer screen. If you mention over breakfast that you’ve always wondered how Maasai beadwork is done, I can arrange a lesson that afternoon with someone I know at the camp. If you’re captivated by a particular aspect of wildlife behavior, I can talk with the guides (some of whom I’ve known for years) and help craft game drives around your curiosity.
And then there are the logistics that no one thinks about until something goes wrong. Weather changes and your hot air balloon ride gets rescheduled? I’m there handling it before you even knew there was an issue. Charter flight delayed? I’m already adjusting our plans and keeping everything on track. You get to stay present in the experience while I make sure all of the behind-the-scenes details flow seamlessly.
The Joy of Sharing
There’s something profoundly satisfying about introducing travelers to the lodge owners, conservationists, and local communities I’ve built relationships with over decades. These people aren’t just service providers to me, they’re friends and partners in conservation. When you meet them through me, you’re not just a tourist passing through. You’re welcomed as part of our extended Hills of Africa family.
I also love watching the connections that form within our small groups. Twelve strangers arrive in Africa, and by the end of the journey, they’re friends swapping photos and making plans to stay in touch. There’s something about shared adventure (especially in a place as awe-inspiring as Africa) that bonds people in lasting ways.
Join Us on Wander
We have three Wander experiences coming up, and I’d love to have you join us:
Gourmet Safari: South Africa & Zimbabwe – This November, we’re exploring the culinary side of safari alongside incredible wildlife encounters on our first ever wander trip. Think wine estates in South Africa, local cuisine experiences, and of course, world-class game viewing. We are so grateful to have sold out not one, but TWO of these trips! Thank you to everyone for your interest, and be sure to stay tuned for future Wander trip dates!!
Gorilla & Chimpanzee Trekking: Uganda – March 2027 brings what I consider one of the most moving wildlife experiences on earth. Coming face-to-face with mountain gorillas in their natural habitat is something that changes you. And we’re going to see so much more on this trip, from conservation projects, to the tree climbing lions of Ishasha, and even get up close and personal to our closest genetic relative, the chimpanzee!
These aren’t just trips I’ve designed — they’re journeys I’m leading personally. And after 25 years of planning African adventures, I can honestly say there’s nothing I’d rather be doing than sharing this extraordinary continent with travelers who are ready to fall in love with it.
Whether you travel with Hills of Africa or another reputable Africa specialist, my hope is simply that you go. Africa has a way of opening hearts and expanding perspectives. I’ve seen it happen hundreds of times, and it never gets old.
I’d be honored to be your guide.
xx Sandy
Interested in joining a Wander experience? Visit our website or reach out to our team to learn more about availability and itineraries. To be the first to know about new dates for Wander trips, be sure to sign up for our newsletter below!
