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Bryan Van Rijk, Headshot, Safari Specialist

Bryan’s knowledge ranges from eastern to southern Africa. He has traveled through most of Yellow Zebra’s favorite countries, making him an all-around safari specialist.

About Bryan

Born in the Netherlands, Bryan has always been a travel enthusiast. At a young age, he was shown by his parents that it is so much more fun to visit different places rather than going to the same holiday destination year in, year out. 

Bryan's recent travel experience

Bryan’s most recent adventure to Africa took him to South Africa. He visited the stunning Phinda Private Game Reserve, where he explored several lodges that are located within the extensive reserve. It was Bryan’s first time ever seeing a pangolin, which was one of the most amazing experiences of his lifetime. After the wonderful safari days, he made his way to Cape Town to enjoy the city and its top restaurants, such as the recently opened Fyn. He finished his trip on sunny Mauritius, to enjoy some family time.

Bryan's most memorable experience

“It’s obviously difficult to pick one experience, as there are, luckily, plenty to choose from. If I have to pick one, it’s definitely my first gorilla trek in Uganda. Having done multiple treks, in both Rwanda and Uganda, it’s the first one that was most memorable. If you’re doing something for the first time, it is always extra exciting, as you don’t really know what can be expected. The trek, which was about 4 hours, led through thick bushes, muddy (and therefore slippery) paths as well as steep hills. It’s a true challenge, but that makes the reward so much better. Being there, on foot, face to face with these gentle giants, is an experience like no other.

“The best thing about a safari is definitely the unknown – the bigger the surprise, the better. And I cannot wait to experience more surprises in the beautiful bush.”

Bryan's biography

Bryan just knew that he was going to end up in travel, which is why he started a Tourism Management study. During his studies, he had the chance to spend some time in Cape Town. And that’s where it all started. Straight after graduation, he started working for a smaller, Dutch, Africa-focused tour operator. This was the perfect chance to travel a lot and learn more about several African destinations, such as Namibia, Botswana, Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda.

After about 2 years, Bryan joined the Africa team of a slightly bigger and more luxury-orientated organisation, where he has worked for the last 6 years. During that time, he visited Namibia, South Africa, Zambia, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, and Mauritius, some of which multiple times. As he met his British wife in Africa, the continent will always have a special place in his heart. Bryan has now made his way to the UK, and will keep spreading his love for the African continent at Yellow Zebra!

Bryan's Top Lodges

Why Trust Yellow Zebra with your African Safari?

"Yellow Zebra are genuine specialists; they know the African bush like the back of their hand."

Brian Jackman, safari expert for The Sunday Times, The Telegraph, Condé Nast, and the BBC

Top Travel Specialists – Condé Nast Traveller UK – 2025

Europe's Leading Safari Tour Operator' at the World Travel Awards

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