When it comes to luxury African safaris, Abercrombie & Kent (A&K) has long set the gold standard. With its polished itineraries, five-star lodges, and white-glove service, it’s often the first name that comes to mind for high-end travelers.
But what if you’re looking for something a little different? Perhaps more authentic, more eco-conscious, or even more personalized — without compromising on luxury?
In this guide, we explore the best alternatives to Abercrombie & Kent for African luxury tours. Whether you’re planning a honeymoon in the Serengeti, a family adventure in Botswana, or a photography trip through Kenya, these operators offer equal — and sometimes greater — luxury, heart, and connection to the wild.
Top Alternatives to Abercrombie & Kent for Africa
1. East Africa Wild
If Abercrombie & Kent is known for global polish, East Africa Wild shines for local authenticity and sustainability. Founded and run by East Africans, this company offers tailor-made safaris across Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and Rwanda — blending luxury with local insight.
Unlike larger international operators, East Africa Wild ensures that your safari directly benefits local guides, communities, and conservation projects. Their itineraries are flexible, their prices transparent, and their hospitality unmatched.
Why travelers love East Africa Wild:
- Locally owned with expert native guides
- Authentic, customizable safaris
- Eco-conscious operations and fair community partnerships
Best for: Travelers who want the perfect balance of luxury, value, and cultural authenticity.
2. &Beyond
Few companies combine luxury, conservation, and community impact quite like &Beyond. Operating over 30 lodges across Africa and beyond, &Beyond offers immersive safaris that go far beyond the ordinary.
Their private concessions in Kenya, Tanzania, Botswana, and South Africa allow guests to enjoy intimate wildlife encounters — often without another vehicle in sight. Each property is designed for low-impact luxury, blending seamlessly with its surroundings.
Why travelers love &Beyond:
- Private, eco-luxury lodges in remote locations
- Strong conservation and community engagement
- Customizable itineraries across multiple countries
Best for: Eco-conscious luxury travelers who want to experience nature responsibly — without giving up comfort.
3. Singita
If Abercrombie & Kent represents refined exploration, Singita embodies ultra-luxury safari living. With lodges in Tanzania, Zimbabwe, South Africa, and Rwanda, Singita is synonymous with architectural beauty, exceptional cuisine, and elite guiding.
Each lodge — whether it’s Singita Sasakwa in the Serengeti or Singita Lebombo in Kruger — feels like a private sanctuary designed to reconnect guests with the rhythm of the wild.
Why travelers love Singita:
- Award-winning lodges with world-class dining and design
- Exceptional wildlife viewing in private reserves
- Strong commitment to conservation and local employment
Best for: Honeymooners, design lovers, and those seeking the absolute top-tier safari experience.
4. Micato Safaris
For travelers who value personal service and seamless logistics, Micato Safaris is a standout alternative to Abercrombie & Kent. This family-run company has been crafting luxury African safaris since the 1960s and has won multiple “Best Tour Operator” awards from Travel + Leisure.
Their hallmark is hospitality — every trip feels like visiting family, not booking a tour. From private guides to surprise picnics in the bush, Micato pays attention to every detail.
Why travelers love Micato:
- Five-star comfort and meticulous planning
- Expert guides and warm, family-run ethos
- Social impact through the Micato-AmericaShare education initiative
Best for: Families, first-time safari-goers, and luxury travelers who want reliability with heart.
5. Wilderness Safaris
Wilderness Safaris is where raw wilderness meets refined comfort. Operating across Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, and Zimbabwe, Wilderness focuses on exclusive, remote eco-camps designed for travelers seeking genuine connection to nature.
From watching elephants at sunset in Mombo Camp, Okavango Delta, to tracking rhinos on foot in Namibia’s Damaraland, every experience feels immersive and authentic.
Why travelers love Wilderness Safaris:
- Deep conservation roots and community partnerships
- Intimate, eco-friendly camps with five-star comfort
- Access to pristine, wildlife-rich areas
Best for: Adventurous luxury travelers who want to feel truly “in the wild.”
6. Africa Adventure Consultants
For travelers who want customized luxury without corporate structure, Africa Adventure Consultants is a top pick. Based in Denver, USA, but focused exclusively on Africa, this boutique operator designs highly personalized itineraries that blend top-tier lodges with cultural and conservation experiences.
Their team of Africa experts curates everything — from romantic getaways in Zanzibar to private gorilla treks in Rwanda — with an eye for detail and authenticity.
Why travelers love Africa Adventure Consultants:
- Handcrafted, flexible itineraries
- Access to both top-tier and hidden-gem lodges
- Focus on sustainable, meaningful travel
Best for: Independent luxury travelers and couples seeking custom, one-of-a-kind experiences.
7. The Luxury Africa DMC
For those who love private, bespoke travel, The Luxury Africa DMC crafts one-of-a-kind luxury itineraries across East and Southern Africa. They focus on personalized service, high-end lodges, private vehicles, and unique experiences — from champagne breakfasts overlooking Kilimanjaro to helicopter rides over Victoria Falls.
Why travelers love The Luxury Africa DMC:
- 100% customized itineraries
- Access to exclusive lodges and private charters
- Expert on-ground support teams
Best for: Discerning travelers who want complete privacy, flexibility, and elite service.
Comparison Table: Alternatives to Abercrombie & Kent
| Operator | Key Strength | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|
| &Beyond | Sustainable luxury & conservation | Eco-conscious travelers |
| Singita | Ultra-luxury design lodges | Honeymooners, high-end travelers |
| Micato Safaris | Family-run, award-winning service | Families, first-timers |
| Wilderness Safaris | Remote eco-luxury camps | Wildlife lovers, adventurers |
| Africa Adventure Consultants | Tailor-made, boutique service | Independent travelers |
| East Africa Wild | Authentic, local, and sustainable | Value-driven luxury travelers |
| The Luxury Africa DMC | Private, high-end customization | Ultra-personalized luxury seekers |
How to Choose the Right Luxury Safari Operator
When comparing Abercrombie & Kent to these top alternatives, ask yourself:
- What matters most? Ultimate luxury or authentic immersion?
- Do you prefer local operators or international brands?
- Are sustainability and community impact part of your values?
- Do you want a set itinerary or total customization?
If your dream safari involves local expertise, sustainable luxury, and emotional connection, companies like East Africa Wild, Wilderness Safaris, and Africa Adventure Consultants offer experiences just as remarkable often at better value.
Conclusion
Abercrombie & Kent may be the benchmark for luxury African safaris, but it’s far from the only one. From Singita’s architectural elegance to &Beyond’s conservation-driven ethos, and East Africa Wild’s authentic local charm, today’s travelers have more world-class options than ever.
Each of these alternatives offers its own flavor of Africa — some polished, some raw, all unforgettable.
If you’re dreaming of a luxury safari that blends authenticity, comfort, and purpose, East Africa Wild and its peers bring Africa closer to your heart — beautifully, responsibly, and memorably.
FAQs
1. Is East Africa Wild a luxury safari company?
Yes — East Africa Wild offers high-end lodges and private safari experiences while maintaining authenticity and eco-consciousness.
2. How does East Africa Wild compare to Abercrombie & Kent?
East Africa Wild offers more locally guided, flexible, and culturally immersive safaris — often at a more accessible price point.
3. Are East Africa Wild safaris customizable?
Absolutely. Every trip is designed around your travel style, budget, and preferred destinations.
4. Does East Africa Wild support conservation?
Yes, they partner with local communities and eco-lodges to promote responsible, sustainable travel.
5. Which destinations does East Africa Wild cover?
Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and Rwanda — including Serengeti, Maasai Mara, and gorilla trekking regions.
6. Is East Africa Wild suitable for families?
Yes, they offer family-friendly itineraries with flexible activities and safe, family-oriented accommodations.
