About Us
Great Safaris is a luxury tour operator specializing in private, customized and unique itineraries to elevate clients’ experiences. We specialize in Africa and the Middle East, and operate in the four main regions in Africa - Southern, East, West and North. Bucket list and sought-after destinations are included for that once in a lifetime trip and we offer infinite pre- and post-cruise safari options.
With a high touch and hands on approach, clients can enjoy Africa in luxury and comfort, knowing that everything is taken care of. We offer a turnkey solution for all land, river and internal air arrangements to smooth the sales process for travel advisors and in return an unforgettable trip for the client. With an all-inclusive approach, clients never have to be worried about "out of pocket" expenses during their travels. When clients are traveling in Africa, they have the peace of mind that we are with them step-by-step all the way, with teams on standby 24/7 to answer any questions, concerns, or emergencies they may have.
Our aim is to have a quick turnaround time, present a high-quality proposal designed to best fit the client, and offer luxury travel at a competitive price point. Africa has many moving parts, and we offer 3-way conference calls between advisors and clients to answer questions or concerns. Each client receives a travel gift box from us that includes all the travel essentials for Africa and more.
A luxury safari is a high-end, exclusive travel experience that combines exceptional comfort, personalized service, and immersive wildlife encounters in some of Africa’s most pristine and natural settings... and that is what we deliver.
Guillaume van Wyk
Chief Executive Officer of Great Safaris
Born and raised in South Africa, Guillaume’s passion for wildlife and safari began at the age of four during his first visit to Kruger National Park. This early fascination developed into a career spanning more than two decades in wildlife conservation, luxury tourism, and the African travel industry. With a master’s degree in Wildlife Management and several tourism accreditations, Guillaume began his career managing a private game reserve and luxury lodge in Greater Kruger. He later spent more than a decade in Mozambique as Managing Director of a conservation area, overseeing wildlife management, community development, and luxury tourism operations. His experience also includes serving as a guest lecturer at the Southern African Wildlife College and volunteering as an Honorary Ranger for SANParks.
Having lived, worked, and traveled extensively throughout Africa, Guillaume brings a wealth of firsthand destination knowledge and industry experience. He permanently relocated to the United States in 2019 and joined Great Safaris as Business Development Manager before being appointed CEO in 2023. Today, as CEO and majority owner of Great Safaris, Guillaume leads the company’s strategic direction, growth, and partnerships. Drawing on his extensive knowledge of Africa and experience in luxury tourism, he remains committed to strengthening Great Safaris’ position as a trusted African safari specialist and valued partner to travel advisors.
Dave Herbert
Founder of Great Safaris
Dave has been deeply involved in African tourism his entire life, starting as a guide in his early twenties and designing safaris throughout Africa. Following his boots on the ground journey, he launched his first outbound tour operation from the US in 1976. In the late 90’s he sold the company and made South Africa his home when he was actively involved in the development and management of safari lodges in multiple countries in Africa and running an inbound DMC operation. After an exciting time in Africa, he moved back to the US and started Great Safaris in 2010 as a luxury tour operator. As the ex-chairman of USTOA and recipient of multiple awards over the years, he has had a magnificent career dedicated to the Travel Industry.
