Born and raised in Cape Town, South Africa, Sarah Morris leads the Private Client Division at Ker & Downey Africa, bringing unmatched expertise and passion to the table. As one of the company’s most experienced travel professionals, Sarah has explored 15 African countries, equipping her with invaluable firsthand knowledge to craft seamless and unforgettable African safari adventures.
Her deep understanding of luxury travel spans destinations across South Africa, Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Namibia, Uganda, Rwanda, Ethiopia, Kenya, Tanzania, Malawi, Morocco, Egypt, and Mozambique. With a wealth of personal experiences, Sarah has become a trusted guide for discerning travellers seeking the best of Africa.
In this exclusive conversation over dinner at La Colombe, Sarah Morris sits down with Frances and Michael Howorth to share her journey and insights.
How would you best describe the company you work for?
Ker & Downey Africa is an award-winning luxury travel company fuelled by a deep passion for the African continent. Our team of explorers and mindful travellers are based in Cape Town, the USA, the UK, and Tanzania. Together we craft bespoke journeys across Africa. Our LuxVenture trips go beyond the ordinary, designed to challenge, inspire, and leave a lasting impact while prioritising responsible travel.
What has been the highlight of your time at Ker & Downey Africa?
I believe my greatest achievement is planning epic adventures for my clients and helping them create lasting memories of Africa that will stay with them for a lifetime.
What is your favourite destination in Africa?
My first love is probably Botswana. As a safari destination, it offers unparalleled game viewing, and the chance to drift peacefully down the Okavango’s lush waterways in a mokoro is truly a highlight for me.
How can you offer clients exclusive, immersive journeys and still call them sustainable?
We are a luxury, purpose-driven tour operator. Our LuxVenture experiences blend luxurious accommodations with adventurous activities such as safaris, mountain hikes, and cultural exchanges. Throughout it all, we ensure our clients feel a deep connection to nature and local communities.
What are your company’s core values?
Oh, that’s an easy answer! I call them the three C’s – Challenge, Connect, and Conserve.
So, what is challenging about the experiences you offer?
We offer our guests unique, adventurous experiences designed to both inspire and challenge in a positive way. From thrilling safaris and bush walks to exciting activities like hot air balloon rides and white-water rafting, each experience is carefully crafted to push boundaries, encourage personal growth, and create lasting memories while ensuring guests feel supported and safe.
How do you ensure your guests connect with nature and culture?
Our guests stay in carefully selected, remote lodges that foster deep connections with Africa’s stunning landscapes and diverse local cultures. They have opportunities for meaningful interactions with local communities, allowing them to gain a true understanding of the traditions and heritage that shape the regions they visit.
What about conservation?
We leave a lasting legacy that benefits both the countryside and its inhabitants. A key focus of our company is conservation and community upliftment. We have initiated projects like tree planting with Greenpop and fund educational initiatives through the OKOA Foundation. Everything we do is aimed at protecting African ecosystems and empowering local communities.
How does what you do differ from other specialist tour operators?
Each client experience is meticulously customized, with special occasions marked by thoughtful, personal touches. From surprise events to tailored interactions, every journey is designed to be unforgettable. Our specially trained Africa travel advisors build personal connections with clients, ensuring that each journey feels uniquely crafted and truly memorable.
But surely no one company can do all that?
That is true, which is why we operate in partnership with key suppliers. Our partners are exclusive to us and are carefully selected to offer top-tier service and unique experiences that align with our company’s values of sustainability and conservation.
How do you ensure the customer gets the best service?
The company elevates its clients’ journeys by partnering with suppliers who offer unique options, such as helicopter transfers that bypass congested areas, so ensuring a seamless and luxurious experience. Each supplier is carefully selected for their alignment with our commitment to quality, conservation, and cultural respect.
How do you maintain your commitment to this high-touch and bespoke service?
Intimate client relationships are the key. We maintain close relationships with clients, recognizing individual preferences and personal milestones. The company aims to stay boutique and exclusive, focusing on high-quality experiences rather than high-volume bookings.
How would you like to be remembered by your clients?
As an award-winning luxury safari company with a high rate of repeat and referral clients. We pride ourselves on consistently delivering exceptional, personalised service that exceeds expectations.
When you are ready to plan your African adventure, contact Sarah at Ker & Downey Africa.
Call: +27 (0)21 201 2484
Email: enquiries@ker-downeyafrica.com
Website enquiry: https://ker-downeyafrica.com/enquiry/