Background & Company Overview
- Ntaba Safari Company: Founded around 2005 by husband-and-wife team Robin and Stella Mountain
- Robin's Background: Originally came to the US in 1990 specializing in artificial insemination of honey queen bees, taught at Kentucky State University
- Company Evolution: Started when American friends asked Robin to take them on African safaris; grew from taking 40 people on first trip to becoming a high-end, bespoke safari operator
Recent Developments
- New DMC: Started a Destination Management Company (DMC) in South Africa at the beginning of 2025.
- Geographic Expansion: Now working with partners in Australia, New Zealand, Germany, and Switzerland
- Dual Operations: Maintains presence in both Louisville, Kentucky and South Africa for 24/7 coverage
Target Market & Services
- Premium Focus: Luxury/bespoke safaris, not budget travel
- Key Demographics: LGBTQ+ market, multi-generational families, singles groups (especially women)
- Specializations: Creative and Flexible: Golf safaris, pickleball safaris, gluten-free travel, accessibility travel (has taken 6 blind travelers to Africa)
Operational Excellence
- Safety Record: 20 years without major incidents
- Client Retention: Many clients travel with them 3-7 times
- Technology: Uses WhatsApp groups to connect clients with guides before travel, giving guests the opportunity to build a relationship before they even embark on their journey
- Quality Guides: Employs experienced guides who clients specifically request
Pricing & Logistics
- Budget Guidelines: $5,000+ per person (excluding flights) for basic packages; $10,000+ per person for luxury experiences
- Typical Itinerary: Combination of Victoria Falls, Cape Town, and safari experiences
- Safety Considerations: No vaccinations required for Southern Africa; travels during optimal seasons to avoid mosquitoes
Industry Challenges Addressed
- Media Misconceptions: Discusses how negative media coverage (like during Ebola crisis) unfairly impacts Africa tourism
- Safety Concerns: Addresses political tensions in South Africa, emphasizing local relationships and actual safety record vs. media perception
Key Success Factors
- Relationship Building: Strong partnerships with travel agents and local operators
- Personalization: Customizes trips based on client needs and interests
- Niche Markets: Targets specific groups with specialized needs
- Quality Control: Regular site inspections of lodges and facilities
- Communication: Maintains constant contact with clients throughout their journey
The interview emphasizes Ntaba's evolution from a small startup to a respected luxury safari operator, highlighting their commitment to personalized service and their strategic expansion into destination management services.
