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Eileen De Villiers

As a seasoned traveler myself with a passion for exploration, I have always embraced the philosophy that travel is not just a destination but a journey of personal enrichment. My role in the world of travel revolves around curating exceptional experiences for those who appreciate the finer things in life. Specializing in luxury travel, my approach is marked by a dedication to delivering moments of unparalleled indulgence, adventure, and cultural immersion.

My travel philosophy places a premium on the value of time and effort, believing that the process of planning and executing a trip should be as rewarding as the adventure itself. I take a hands-on approach, investing meticulous attention to detail in every aspect of the journey, from selecting the right accommodations to arranging immersive activities. This commitment ensures that every traveller in my care receives a bespoke and unforgettable experience that caters to their individual desires and aspirations.

What places and activities do you specialize in?

"South Africa would be my main speciality as I am born and bred here. I know the country very well as well as all the unique options available to my guests. I have recently done quite a bit of travelling into Zimbabwe, Zambia and Botswana and confident to sell these areas now too. "

How did you get involved in travel?

"I have an incredible love for food and always wanted to be a chef and pursued this after high school. At the time that I graduated this dream was not possible and thus went into hospitality and it is all history from there. My travels did eventually lead me to cheffing again however the pull of travelling was greater and here I am, combining both wherever I can. "

Please share a unique travel experience you will never forget.

"Going on a visit to Lion Sands Game Reserve about 16 years ago, we walked into Ivory Lodge and the doors of the suite were opened to reveal beauty I had never known existed in the African bush before. That was my wow moment and I wanted others to experience it the same way I had. "

Top itineraries and travel advice
Family itineraries

Recent trip reviews for Eileen

South Africa and Botswana
Botswana | Jul 30 - Aug 11, 2024

Christopher
Christopher S.
Hollywood, FL | Reviewed on Aug 22, 2024
Our trip to South Africa and Botswana was excellent.
Eileen and her team put together a wonderful trip that completely met our needs.
They listened to all of our requests and after several versions, nailed the perfect trip for our family.
While in country, her team (specifically Lucy) continually checked in with us to make sure that everything was going smoothly and we were having a great time.
I never felt like we were traveling alone and always had someone local looking out for us.
Read more

Our trip to South Africa and Botswana was excellent.
Eileen and her team put together a wonderful trip that completely met our needs.
They listened to all of our requests and after several versions, nailed the perfect trip for our family.
While in country, her team (specifically Lucy) continually checked in with us to make sure that everything was going smoothly and we were having a great time.
I never felt like we were traveling alone and always had someone local looking out for us.

Hotel Reviews
The Commodore Hotel
Cape Town

Great location...clean and met our needs. The staff was friendly and accommodating. It is not the Ritz Carlton or the Four Seasons so as long as your expectations are in line, you won't be disappointed.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Halls and rooms were slightly dated, but everything was clean
Machaba Safaris
Maun

We had an incredible experience at Machaba as my kids felt it was the best place we stayed in Botswana; or at least the most authentic. There are no wooden walkways and tents are not built up on stilts; they are on a concrete slab. My family loved how close we were to nature (after all, that is why we were there). We stayed at other camps and while they may have been more elaborate (glass doors, paved/wooden walkways, hardwood floors) they lacked the character of Machaba.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Everyone on the staff was amazing. Shout out to Rafa, our guide, possibly the best we had in Botswana.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Eileen De Villiers
Eileen
Eileen De Villiers
Local specialist in Johannesburg | Replied on Sep 04, 2024

Dear Chris,

Thank you so much for the lovely review, I am so happy you had a lovely time and enjoyed Machaba (our last find). It was a pleasure creating this experience for you and hope our paths will cross again in the future. May the memories will last a lifetime!

Best wishes,
Eileen