More than a Safari
We believe the best journeys don’t just show you new places, they help you feel deeply connected to them.
A philosophy of thoughtful travel.
At Akara Expeditions, every detail is guided by one purpose: to offer meaningful, personalized travel that respects nature, celebrates culture and stays with you long after you’ve returned home.
Personalized Journeys
Designed Around You
No crowds. Just you and the wild.
Whether you dream of witnessing the Great Migration, spending time with local communities or quietly observing birds by a lakeshore, your journey is crafted around your pace and passions.
We believe a great experience is not about excess, but intention.
Expert Guides
Local Insights, World-Class Standards
Travel with those who know the land intimately.
Our guides are more than trackers, they are conservationists, story tellers and trusted companions.
With deep local knowledge and years of experience, they turn every drive, walk and conversation into an opportunity to learn, reflect and connect.
Sustainable Travel
Travel That Leaves a Positive Mark
Because how you travel matters.
Every journey supports local communities, protects fragile ecosystems and uplifts conservation partners on the ground.
From carbon offsetting and eco-lodges to cultural preservation and fair employment, we believe in tourism that benefits everyone it touches.
Our Founding Story
From the Bush to the Boardroom
James Gichure has spent over 20 years guiding safaris across Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda. Through thousands of conversations, community visits and life-changing wildlife encounters, he began to ask:
How can safaris do more than entertain? How can they give back?
That question gave birth to Akara Expeditions, an outfit built on James’ belief that every journey should leave both the traveler and the land transformed. Today, James leads with the same humility and heart that first led him onto the trails: a commitment to excellence, a passion for people, and a deep respect for the wild.
He’s worked with conservationists, photographers, researchers, families, solo adventurers and mission teams – bringing everyone together around one idea: travel that matters.
Explore iconic landmarks & uncover hidden gems across East Africa
Our team’s deep knowledge and passion ensure every journey is meaningful to you.
Iconic, diverse & endlessly inspiring
From the sweeping savannahs of the Masai Mara to the rugged northern frontier of Samburu and the highland sanctuaries of Ol Pejeta, Kenya is where Akara’s story began – and where we lead with unmatched depth.
Track the Great Migration, meet the vibrant Maasai and Samburu peoples or explore volcanic lakes and wildlife conservancies where conservation thrives.
Experiences include:
- Classic Big Five safaris.
- Community-led cultural encounters.
- Rhino and chimp conservation programs.
- Scenic air safaris and private bush camps.
Lush, soulful & quietly powerful.
Known as the Pearl of Africa, Uganda offers a rare mix of thrilling primate trekking, scenic beauty, and genuine human warmth.
Trek mountain gorillas in misty Bwindi, encounter playful chimpanzees in Kibale Forest, or cruise the wildlife-filled Kazinga Channel in Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Uganda invites you to slow down and connect deeply.
Experiences include:
- Gorilla and chimpanzee trekking.
- Birdwatching and forest hiking.
- Tree-climbing lions of Ishasha.
- Cultural immersion with the Batwa and local storytellers.
Vast, wild & profoundly moving.
Tanzania delivers on every classic safari dream – open plains, ancient migration paths, and the drama of predator and prey playing out daily in the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater.
Yet beyond the wildlife, you’ll find ancient communities like the Hadzabe and Datoga, vibrant markets and barefoot beach escapes on the Indian Ocean.
Experiences include:
- Great Migration crossings (Serengeti).
- Ngorongoro Crater game drives.
- Cultural visits to indigenous hunter-gatherer communities.
- Optional Zanzibar extensions.
Refined, reflective & rich with renewal.
Rwanda has emerged as a leader in eco-conscious travel and cultural dignity.
Trek rare mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park, visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial and discover the country’s astonishing rebirth.
With luxury eco-lodges and a strong conservation ethic, Rwanda offers meaningful travel for thoughtful explorers.
Experiences include:
- Gorilla trekking with expert trackers.
- Golden monkey encounters.
- Guided city and memorial tours in Kigali.
- Scenic lakeside retreats on Lake Kivu.
Off the beaten path, full of spirit.
Small in size but rich in culture, Burundi offers a different kind of East African journey.
Explore the shores of Lake Tanganyika, hike rolling green hills or witness the drumming rituals of the Royal Drummers.
For travelers seeking rare and raw experiences, Burundi is a rewarding frontier.
Experiences include:
- Cultural immersion in Bujumbura and countryside villages.
- Visits to sacred drum sanctuaries.
- Boat safaris and fishing with locals on Lake Tanganyika.
- Add-on trips for seasoned or repeat East Africa travelers.