Travel Expert

Michelle Havemann

Michelle was raised near one of the most iconic safari destinations, the Kruger National Park in South Africa. Holidays were spent exploring nature, so it felt like fate to end up working in the African industry. Michelle's Italian mother worked for a major Italian tour operator and her dad was a tour guide in the Kruger National Park on weekends, so tourism definitely flows through Michelle's veins.

Michelle and her conservationist husband live on the doorstep of the Kruger National Park and regularly hear the roar of lions and the whoop of hyenas at night.

African Destinations Visited

Botswana
Egypt
Kenya
Mozambique
Namibia
Seychelles
South Africa
Tanzania
United Arab Emirates
Zimbabwe

MOST MEMORABLE TRIP

While visiting the northern Kruger I was chatting to the GM before bedtime, and suddenly he told me to be quiet and crouch down. I soon found out why! One of the dominant bull elephants of the area had silently (for an elephant that is), come closer to us and was munching away at the leaves on a tree not 2 metres away! Thank goodness we were on a raised walkway and he was relaxed. We sat in the darkness for at least 1/2 hours, just listening to him. A truly humbling experience to be in the presence of such greatness!

Top of my bucket-list

Oh, wow too many to mention. But for now, I would have to say a horseback safari at Chyulu Hills in Kenya. As a lifelong horse enthusiast, there would be nothing better than sharing my love for horses alongside my love for the bush, and encountering big game while in the saddle, would be a big tick off the bucket list for me.

Favourite Safari Animal

"Rhinos are very close to my heart. These prehistoric creatures are so undeserving of the extinction that they now face, and are wonderful "tanks" of the bush."

Sundowner Of Choice

"For me it would have to be a whiskey on the rocks. Smooth, sensational and leaving a lingering taste in your mouth, just like a visit to Africa would!"

Favourite Property

"Jacis Tree Lodge, Madikwe Game Reserve. With suites set in the canopy of the trees, you get a bird’s eye view of the stunning surrounding landscape."

TOP TRAVEL TIP

I never leave home without a portable charger and a good moisturiser, both of which are essential when travelling! Also, don't forget to hydrate, I continually drink from my water bottle when travelling around.

the best part of my job

Hearing the excitement in people’s voices when I have been able to create their dream holiday for them, and the knowledge that they are going to have an unforgettable experience!

WHAT MY CLIENTS SAY

A superb experience in every respect

"Michelle was AMAZING - enthusiastic to find a holiday to meet our needs and hopes, friendly, whilst highly professional. She could not have done more to ensure our holiday went smoothly."

Nicola Gresham, UK
Family holiday to Kenya, 2023

Absolutely recommended

"Michelle was more than perfect. We felt safe and special all the time. Every detail was covered before and during the trip. I think her advice, dedication and understanding was faultless."

Maria Alexandra Iglesias, UK
Family Holiday to South Africa, 2023

Outstanding!

"She was great! Michelle turned out to be a person of the highest professionalism and technical preparation, always present and available, she assisted us in a truly superlative way."

Massimiliano Furlanetto, Italy
Mozambique, Zimbabwe, South Africa, 2022

Very helpful

"Michelle was very helpful in planning our trip and fulfilling our every request, always very prompt and willing to give us any guidance. The trip fully met our expectations thanks to her advice."

Maria Teresa Bettera, Italy
Holiday to Botswana and Zimbabwe, 2022