Giraffe

Our partner Odyssey

Our partner: Odyssey

Odyssey is a conservation-focused travel and research operator offering immersive experiences across South Africa.

They specialize in ethical wildlife encounters, student and group tours, and hands-on conservation projects that inspire, educate, and connect people with nature.

From wildlife research and eco-volunteering to tailored educational itineraries, their programs are designed to make a meaningful impact on both participants and the environment.

Whether you're a student, adventurer, or wildlife enthusiast, Odyssey provides a unique opportunity to explore Africa’s wild spaces while contributing to real conservation efforts. Join them on a journey that goes beyond travel — a journey with purpose.

Brief profile of Oddysey

  • Name: Odyssey
  • Year founded: 2013
  • Headquarter: South Africa
  • Languages: English, Afrikaans
  • Locations: Africa
  • Travel Types: Volunteering, Nature & Wilderness, Adventure & Active
  • Partner Type: Eco Travel Operator
  • Support for you: Personal support from start to finish

What is special about travelling with Odyssey?

Travelling with Odyssey is about more than just seeing Africa — it’s about experiencing it with purpose.

What makes Odyssey special is their deep commitment to ethical travel and real conservation impact. Each journey is designed to connect you meaningfully with wildlife, local communities, and the natural world through immersive, educational experiences.

Odyssey prioritizes the following:

  • Hands-on involvement in conservation and research
  • Small group travel for authentic, low-impact adventures
  • Expert guidance from passionate conservation professionals
  • Ethical wildlife encounters, never exploitative
  • Personalised itineraries tailored for students, volunteers, and travellers seeking more than the average safari

With Odyssey, you don’t just visit — you contribute, learn, and grow.

Get inspired!

»Through education and conscious travel we can make a bigger difference than we can possibly imagine.«
- Arno Smit, founder

What is the philosophy behind Odyssey?

At Odyssey, the philosophy is rooted in conscious travel — the belief that exploring the world should have a positive impact on both people and planet. They are passionate about creating meaningful journeys that support ethical wildlife practiceslocal communities, and sustainable conservation efforts.

They believe travel should educate, inspire, and empower. That’s why they focus on small groups, genuine connections, and hands-on experiences that go beyond the surface. Every program is designed to be immersive, responsible, and aligned with long-term conservation goals.

As a proud member of the Conscious Explorer network, they stand with others who champion integrity in travel — rejecting wildlife exploitation, promoting environmental awareness, and placing people and purpose at the heart of every itinerary. Odyssey is for travellers who want to do more than just see the world — they want to protect it, learn from it, and leave it better.

What experiences does Odyssey offer?

Odyssey offers a diverse range of conscious travel and conservation experiences across South Africa, tailored for students, volunteers, and ethical adventurers.

Their core programmes include:

  • Wildlife Research & Conservation: Join hands-on research projects focused on rhinos, big cats, and other iconic species alongside conservation professionals.
  • Educational Group Tours: Designed for high school and university groups, these trips combine learning, adventure, and ethical wildlife encounters.
  • Eco-Volunteer Experiences: Contribute to real fieldwork and conservation initiatives while living in some of South Africa’s most stunning natural areas.
  • Custom Itineraries: Tailor-made travel for families, schools, and special-interest groups looking for a purposeful, immersive African experience.
  • Safari & Adventure Tours: Ethically curated safaris and wilderness adventures with a strong focus on sustainability and local impact.

Every Odyssey experience is built around conservation, education, and ethical travel — giving you the chance to explore Africa with meaning.

Discover the wilderness with Odyssey!

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