ABOUT US
Sharing Africa with Knowledge, Respect, and a Love for the Wild
At Barefoot Safaris, we share our deep knowledge of Africa - honoring its people, protecting its heritage, and celebrating the beauty of its untamed wilderness.
Founded over 40 years ago by Ken Smith, we exist to create authentic African safaris that leave a lasting impact — not just on our guests, but on the landscapes, wildlife, and communities we are privileged to call home.
We are proudly African — and passionate about this continent, its people, and its wild places.
We live here. We guide here. And we care deeply about how Africa is experienced and preserved.
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No petting lions. No riding elephants. No performing animals — ever
Wild animals belong in the wild. We don’t exploit them. We observe them, quietly and respectfully, on their terms.
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Travel that uplifts
We work with and invest in local communities, creating meaningful partnerships that support conservation, education, and economic opportunity.
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Guiding that matters
Our safaris are led by expert guides who are not only highly trained, but deeply connected to the land. They bring every landscape to life — with knowledge, humility, and a love for sharing Africa’s story.
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Safaris with purpose
We offer low-impact, ethical adventures that connect people to nature in ways that are immersive, humbling, and unforgettable — without leaving a negative footprint.
We believe in responsible tourism. That means:
Ken Smith
Owner and Founder
With over 3 decades of expertise, our owner and founder is a premier guide renowned for crafting bespoke adventure tours across Southern and Eastern Africa. A wildlife and ecosystem expert, he creates personalized journeys for families, individuals, and groups. His deep knowledge of Africa’s flora, fauna, and cultural heritage ensures thrilling wildlife encounters and authentic experiences, guiding travelers through savannahs, rainforests, deserts, and coastlines with passion and precision, tailoring each adventure to their unique style.
Louis Lock
Expert Safari Guide
With over 15 years of experience, our expert safari guide is a professionally qualified birding specialist, animal tracking expert, and national culture guide, holding prestigious certifications, including as an accredited Professional Eswatini Guide and Professional Field Guide Level 2 (FGASA). Renowned for his keen eye for detail and captivating storytelling, he brings Africa’s wildlife, birdlife, adventure tours, history, and vibrant cultures to life with an array of stories, folklore, and legends, leading groups across multiple African countries with extensive travel expertise.
Ken's Story
Ken Smith and Eva Bakonyi
I started Barefoot Safaris in Malawi over three decades ago, specializing in small group tours for families, individuals, and larger groups. From the beginning, my focus has been on tailor-made adventure safaris that go off the beaten track through wild Africa.
These safaris echo a bygone era—when intrepid explorers like Teddy Roosevelt and Ernest Hemingway relied on private guides to craft bespoke journeys and personally escort them through the bush from start to finish.
I built Barefoot Safaris on those same principles: offering first-class wildlife and birding experiences across a range of countries in Southern and Eastern Africa.
Over the years, Barefoot Safaris has evolved. Today, we cater to a wide variety of travelers—from high-end, upmarket guests seeking luxurious, custom-made itineraries, to adventurous families and “middle of the road” travelers looking for quality mid-range accommodation or unforgettable camping safaris under the stars.
Fifteen years ago, I married Eva, the love of my life. She brought fresh colors and flavors to our itineraries—discovering exquisite accommodations, the finest restaurants, and introducing elements of local cuisine, art, and crafts.
In South Africa, our journeys are enriched by gourmet food, wine tastings, and vibrant arts and culture—alongside the region’s spectacular wildlife.
You’ll explore wilderness areas teeming with animals, witness awe-inspiring natural wonders, and enjoy the cosmopolitan charm of Cape Town. All while staying in quiet luxury at some of the world’s finest hotels and safari lodges—or, if you prefer, in charming mid-range lodges or well-equipped bush camps, depending on your comfort and travel style.
With deep knowledge, decades of experience, and a profound love for Africa, I’m passionate about sharing the magic of this continent with our guests. I’ll guide you through ecosystems of flora and fauna, tell the stories of local history, and connect you to the cultural and natural heritage of each region.
My safaris take you to the real Africa—giving you the chance to feel, touch, and truly experience it, while remaining safe and comfortable. Whether you’re seeking a luxurious escape, a family-friendly adventure, or a back-to-basics camping experience, I’ll take you to Africa’s most exceptional wildlife destinations—offering seclusion, privacy, and breathtaking landscapes across savannah, rainforest, desert, or coastline.
