About Us

We Make Sure Your Safari Leaves a Lasting Legacy
Search Now

Our Story

We believe travel should be more than sightseeing. It should be a connection to nature, to culture, and to community.

Private Explorers was born from a simple but powerful belief: that travel should leave more than footprints,  it should create real, lasting impact. After over a decade working in the heart of Tanzania’s safari and hospitality industry, our founder saw a gap between the luxury many travelers enjoy and the reality of the communities they pass through. We built this company to close it.

Every safari we run is customized, immersive, and gives back — with 20% of profits directly supporting education, health, and community projects through our non-profit partners.

8+
Years Experience
888+
Happy Travellers
288+
Safari & Tours
18/7
Hours Support

Self-Drive Safaris

Plan your own route. We provide the 4×4, maps, support, and insider tips.

More Details

Private Guided Safaris

Travel with an experienced guide for a richer and more relaxed safari experience.

More Details

Mountain Trekking

Whether it’s your first major trek or your next big summit, we’ll help you prepare, pace, and reach the top.

More Details

Beach Holidays

After your safari or climb, unwind on the white sands of Zanzibar, Mafia Island, or the Kenyan coast.

More Details
A Word from the Founder

Directors Message

“Private Explorers was born from a love for this land, and a desire to make travel meaningful for everyone involved.”

Growing up in Tanzania, I was inspired by our wildlife and communities — but I also saw how tourism often left little behind. That’s why I started this company: to offer authentic travel supported by local expertise and shared purpose.

Whether you’re behind the wheel in the Serengeti, standing on the roof of Africa at Kilimanjaro, or volunteering in a village, I hope your journey with us leaves a lasting positive impact — for you, and for the people you meet.

— Balbina Kiwia, Founder & Director

Meet Our Team

Our team is a diverse group of passionate travel experts, conservationists, and local guides. Together, we bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to help create your perfect African adventure.

Who We Are

We’re not a big travel company with offices in five countries. We’re based in Tanzania. We know the land, the people, and the places, and we’re proud to host you as both a guest and a fellow explorer.

Led by a safari veteran and community advocate, our team is made up of guides, planners, and local change-makers who believe in the power of meaningful travel.

Why We Exist

We started Private Explorers to:

  • Offer safaris that are more personal, more intentional, and more ethical
  • Create opportunities for travelers to connect with local people and stories
  • Channel a portion of safari profits into real community projects

We believe travel should make the world a little better, for you, and for the people you meet along the way.

What We Stand For

Freedom

We empower you to explore East Africa on your own terms, driving yourself, choosing a private guide, or mixing safari with culture and community. You set the pace; we provide the tools, support, and insight to travel with confidence.

Trust

Open communication, fair pricing, and local expertise. From your first inquiry to your last day on the road, our team offers clear advice and a transparent experience, no surprises, no hidden fees

Purpose

20% of our profits directly fund local projects supporting children, education, and youth empowerment through our nonprofit partner, Tuleeni. Every trip helps build a better future.

Sustainability

Responsible tourism that protects nature and uplifts local communities, from minimizing environmental impact to working with local suppliers and guides, so your journey benefits the people and places you visit for generations to come.

Our Mission

Create Unique, Tailored Travel Experiences

Every journey should be as unique as the traveler. Our custom-designed itineraries match your interests and needs, whether it’s an exhilarating safari, a cultural exploration, or a relaxing retreat.

Promote Sustainable Tourism

By partnering with local communities and supporting conservation efforts, we reduce the environmental impact of travel and leave a positive legacy for future generations.

Ensure Safety and Comfort

From the moment you book until your journey ends, every aspect of your experience is smooth, secure, and unforgettable.

Support Local Communities

A percentage of our proceeds goes toward local development, education, healthcare, and infrastructure in the regions we visit.

Explore Our Tours

Every Safari Makes a Difference

Giving Back: The 20% That Changes Everything

At Private Explorers, 20% of every safari’s profit goes directly to projects that support children, education, and community growth in Tanzania. It’s not an add-on. It’s built into everything we do.

Tuleeni Children's Home

Located in the foothills of Kilimanjaro, Tuleeni is home to dozens of children and young adults. Your safari helps provide food and basic care, school uniforms and tuition, and health insurance.

Faraji Foundation

A grassroots foundation we work closely with to fund long-term impact projects, including women’s health and hygiene, clean water systems, community projects, and school classrooms, libraries, and supplies.

Local communities

Local guides, artisans, and eco-lodges are part of your journey. When you travel with us, you help real people, not just through donations, but by creating jobs, funding dreams, and empowering change.

Our Vision

Our Commitment to
Responsible Tourism

We understand travel can impact the environment, wildlife, and local communities. That’s why we make conscious decisions to minimize our footprint and maximize the benefits of tourism for the regions we operate in. A portion of our earnings goes to local projects improving education, promoting conservation, and supporting sustainable livelihoods.

 

Our vision is to be the leading provider of responsible and sustainable travel experiences in Africa — offering both adventure and cultural enrichment while supporting local communities and conservation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a refund if I need to cancel?

Refund eligibility depends on how far in advance you cancel and the specific tour or rental — full details are in our Booking & Payment Terms. In general, earlier cancellations recover more of your deposit.

Can I change my travel dates?

In most cases, yes, subject to availability and how close the change is to your original dates. Contact us as early as possible, and we’ll do everything we can to accommodate it.

Do I need a visa to travel?

Most visitors to Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda need a visa; eVisa options are available for all three. Requirements vary by nationality — see our full safari tips guide or ask us directly and we’ll confirm what you’ll need.

Do you offer travel insurance?

We don’t sell insurance directly, but we strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance covering medical emergencies, evacuation, and trip cancellation before you travel, we’re happy to point you toward reputable providers.

How many people can stay in one room or tent?

This depends on the lodge or camp; most offer double, twin, and family/triple room options. Tell us your group size when requesting a quote, and we’ll match you to the right accommodation.

Do you accept deposit payments?

Yes. Most bookings require a deposit to confirm your trip, with the balance due before departure. Full terms are on our Booking & Payment Terms page.

Which payment methods do you accept?

We accept major credit cards and bank transfers, processed securely via SSL encryption. Ask us for full payment details when you book.

Are flights included in the tour price?

International flights are not included. Domestic flights or transfers are included where an itinerary specifically requires them; this will always be listed in what’s included on the individual tour page.

Are meals included?

Most of our safari and trekking packages include meals as specified on each tour page (usually full board on safari and all meals while trekking). Beach packages vary by property; we’ll confirm exactly what’s included in your quote.

“We also cooperate with other listing platforms and are represented on the online African tour marketplace SafariBookings.com.”

Our website has been reviewed and approved by travellistings.org – General Travel Holiday Listings