Sonja Schmitz

What places and activities do you specialize in?

"I specialize in creating tailor-made journeys through South Africa – from Cape Town and the Garden Route as a self-drive to the beaches and safaris of KwaZulu-Natal, and of course the world-renowned Kruger National Park. I design malaria-free trips, ideal for families, with carefully selected child-friendly lodges and activities. Hiking and horse riding are experiences I know especially well, having explored South Africa extensively in this way myself.

Beyond South Africa, I have guided many tours through Namibia, from south to north, and can give excellent advice on the best routes, hidden gems, and travel conditions. I also have in-depth knowledge of Botswana, where I’ve visited lodges on educational trips. I plan both luxury fly-in safaris and adventurous camping safaris – tailored to any budget. Extensions to Victoria Falls or Hwange National Park can easily be added to complete the journey."

How did you get involved in travel?

"I originally trained as a safari guide, but quickly realized that working at a lodge wasn’t the right path for me. Instead, I completed a culture guide course and went on to guide German and American clients through South Africa and Namibia. For a short period, I also worked in assistant management at a lodge in Botswana.

When Covid hit, tourism came to a standstill for a while. As the industry recovered, I decided to shift my focus from guiding in the field to planning and designing trips – something that allows me to share my knowledge and passion in a different, more creative way."

Please share a unique travel experience you will never forget.

"I also worked as a horse trails guide in a game reserve without the Big Five, where I led guests on horseback rides alongside giraffes, zebras, and other wildlife. While guiding, I shared insights about the bush and its ecosystems. Horse riding has always been a passion of mine, and being able to guide from the saddle was an incredible and unforgettable experience."