Born of the lion's spirit
Simba means lion in Swahili — the king of the African wild. We carry that spirit in everything we do: fearless exploration, fierce dedication, and an unwavering pride in sharing Africa's beauty.
Where the lion roams
Simba Beyond Africa Safaris is a premium safari tour operator born in Cape Town, South Africa. Named after the Swahili word for lion, we carry the king of the bush's spirit in every journey — crafting extraordinary safari experiences that weave together luxury accommodation, expert guiding, and authentic wildlife encounters.
As a proud Gray Line South Africa partner, we bring over a century of trusted tourism service to every journey. From ultra-luxury Big Five safaris in Sabi Sands to romantic honeymoon escapes and family-friendly adventures along the Garden Route.
We believe travel should be transformative. That's why we're committed to conservation, community support, and delivering personal, memorable experiences that go far beyond the ordinary.
Milestones that define us
The Lion Awakens
Simba Beyond Africa Safaris is born in Cape Town — named for the Swahili word for lion, embodying courage, pride, and the untamed spirit of Africa.
Gray Line Partnership
Officially joining Gray Line Worldwide — 100+ years of global tourism trust, amplifying the Simba roar across 6 continents.
1,000th Safari Guest
A milestone celebrated with our lodge partners across 8 African countries — the pride grows stronger.
Five-Star Excellence
Awarded Certificate of Excellence for 5 consecutive years of outstanding guest reviews — the lion earns its crown.
Fair Trade Certified
Recognised for responsible tourism practices and community investment — protecting the land the lion calls home.
11,000+ Reviews
Surpassing 11,000 five-star reviews across Viator, GetYourGuide, TripAdvisor & all major platforms — the Simba legacy roars on.
Proudly Gray Line
Backed by 100+ years of trusted global tourism service across 150+ destinations worldwide.
Global Network
Part of Gray Line's worldwide network of premium tour operators across 150+ destinations on 6 continents.
Century of Trust
Gray Line has been delivering exceptional tourism experiences since 1910 — a legacy of quality we uphold daily.
Local Expertise
We combine Gray Line's global standards with intimate, born-and-raised knowledge of South Africa's landscapes.
Meet the team behind every journey
Passionate locals who live and breathe Africa — dedicated to crafting your perfect safari.
Alain Kabura
Founder & Safari Director
Born in Cape Town, Alain has spent 18 years exploring every corner of Southern Africa. His passion for wildlife conservation drives every safari we design.
Nandi Mthembu
Head of Guest Experience
With a background in luxury hospitality, Nandi ensures every guest receives a personalised, world-class experience from first inquiry to final sunset.
James van der Merwe
Lead Safari Guide (FGASA)
A FGASA-certified field guide with 12 years of experience. James has an uncanny ability to track the Big Five and share wildlife stories that captivate.
Lerato Dlamini
Cape Town Tours Manager
Born and raised in the Mother City, Lerato knows every hidden gem, secret viewpoint, and best-kept restaurant in Cape Town.
Our values
Trust & Safety
Backed by Gray Line's 100+ years of trusted service worldwide. Your safety is our foundation.
Conservation First
10% of every safari fee directly funds anti-poaching units and wildlife rehabilitation centres.
Local Expertise
Born in Cape Town, we know every hidden waterhole, secret sunrise spot, and community story.
Relentless Excellence
11,000+ five-star reviews across Viator, GetYourGuide & TripAdvisor. 200,000+ happy travellers served.
Genuine Passion
We don't sell tours. We share the Africa we love — with every guest, every journey, every moment.
100% Tailor-Made
No templates, no group tours. Every safari is handcrafted around your dreams, pace, and interests.
“Simba means lion. And like the lion, we lead with courage, protect with passion, and never stop roaming the land we love.”
Alain Kabura · Founder, Simba Beyond Africa Safaris