Richard van Schalkwijk

Owner and Professional Tour Guide

South Africa

Richard van Schalkwijk

Businesses Owned: Imagine Africa Safaris – Tour Operator

Lowveld Camp and Gas – 4x4 Outdoor Shop

Some 15 years ago Richard answered the call of Africa when he bought an equipped 4x4 safari vehicle. He decided to make his dreams a reality – and then to share the African scene with visitors from all over the globe. His story is an adventure in the wild that has gone from basic game ranger right through to owner of his own tour operations business, gaining all the experience and more necessary to efficiently and effectively run his successful businesses.

The southern tip of African became his challenge, with its beauty and eco systems, its wildlife and pristine natural reserves. Richard and his wife Amanda have made their headquarters in Hoedspruit – the central meeting place for visits to game lodges, the Kruger National Park, natural habitat and places of ethnic interest.

Imagine Africa Safaris offers every type of tour a client could wish for from the very basic in camping, combination lodged and camping to the ultimate in luxury safari. The safari vehicles are equipped for extremely comfortable touring, with all the necessary equipment from offroad recovery to camping/catering, etc. These vehicles are prepared specifically for every departing safari by Richard and technicians where necessary – safety and comfort being a priority.

Imagine Africa Safaris takes you to see Africa on a custom(tailor)-made itinerary, where your every need, even dream where possible is met or made to come true. Richard’s knowledge and experience compare with the best travel guides of today… to hear him say: “Good morning Africa” means you are about to embark on a journey of a lifetime!