A founder's story.
A fire that refused to wait.
"My love affair with Africa began over 12 years ago, and it has never let me go."
The moment the sun rises over the savannah and the world comes alive with sound, colour and movement, you understand why this continent claims a piece of your heart. What began as a deep personal fascination with Africa's breathtaking landscapes, extraordinary wildlife and vibrant culture became something I simply had to share with the world.
This sparked a 10-year career as a Luxury Africa Safari Specialist, designing over 1,000 bespoke, tailor-made itineraries across Southern and East Africa.
12+
Years in Africa
1,000+
Itineraries designed
Luxury Africa Safari Specialist ◆ Southern & East Africa
How Lionelle was born.
During my 10-year career it became blindingly obvious to me how misrepresented independent female travellers were in the travel industry. Many were limited by lack of companionship, high costs and a fear of safety and security.
I have sat across from women who told me that they had always dreamed of seeing Africa but had never gone, because no one in their lives wanted to go with them. Women who had done everything for everyone their whole lives and had never once booked a trip purely for themselves. Women who were not sure they were allowed to want something this extraordinary, just for them.
"That broke my heart. And it lit a fire in me."
I know what it feels like to stand at a crossroads in life. To sense that something is calling you, quietly at first, then louder, until you can no longer ignore it. For so many women that calling gets buried under years of responsibility, of putting others first, of waiting for the right time, the right companion, the right moment, that somehow never quite arrives.
I built Lionelle Safari for every woman who kept waiting for the right time, the right companion, the right moment that never came.
Africa is an immersive experience. It strips away the noise, the roles you play, the version of yourself you present to the world, and it shows you something truer underneath. I believe, with every fibre of my being, that every woman deserves to experience that kind of clarity and wonder, at least once in her life.
Every safari I design carries that same fire. I want you to feel the anticipation of that first game drive. The magic of watching a herd of elephants move silently through golden light. The sheer privilege of being present in wild Africa, surrounded by women who came as strangers and leave as friends with lifelong memories.
Lionelle Safari exists for women. Women ready to experience Africa. Ready to feel something transformational and alive and completely their own. This continent has the power to change you completely.
Sophie Green, Founder, Lionelle Safari
Four pillars. Every decision.
Freedom
Small group. Your pace, your Africa. Freedom from the financial and logistical penalties of travelling alone, both emotional and practical.
Connection
An opportunity to connect with the wilderness and with the women beside you.
Expertise
Female-led departures. Carefully vetted guides. Considered itineraries. Every detail handled. You are in expert hands from the moment you make contact.
Transformation
Not a holiday. A shift in perspective that stays with you. Once you discover Africa, it will never leave you.
Ready to let her rise?
Speak to us. No obligation, no pressure. Just a personal response from someone who knows this land.
Speak to us