Who we are
Rooted in East Africa · Inspired by curiosity
Asili is the Swahili word for origin, and East Africa is where humanity's story began. Asili Trails was founded in Arusha by a small team of Tanzanian guides and safari planners who wanted to share our home the way we experience it: slowly, privately and with real respect for the land and its people.
Today we design tailor-made safaris across Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda and Zanzibar. We are big enough to handle every detail, and small enough that you'll know your planner by name. Every itinerary is built from scratch, every guide is chosen for their knowledge and warmth, and every journey is designed to give something back.
Why travel with us
01
We live and work here. Our knowledge of parks, seasons and camps comes from being in the field, not from a brochure.
02
Every safari includes your own vehicle and guide, so you set the pace, stay as long as you like at a sighting and never share a window seat.
03
Clear prices, no hidden extras and straight advice on the best time to go, even when the answer is “not this month”.
04
One dedicated planner from first call to last game drive, plus a 24/7 support line from our Arusha office while you travel.
How we plan
01
A free call or email exchange to understand your dates, budget and dreams.
02
Within 48 hours, a tailored itinerary with routes, camps and a clear price.
03
We adjust until it's perfect, then secure permits, flights and lodges.
04
Your guide meets you on arrival, with our team on call 24/7 throughout.
05
Most of our guests return. We'll be ready with somewhere new when you are.
Our people
The planners, guides and support crew who make every Asili journey happen.
Our safari vehicles
Your vehicle is your home on safari, so we keep ours to a high standard. Every private safari uses a customised 4x4 Land Cruiser, maintained by our own mechanics and driven by a professional guide.
— Pop-up roof for 360° game viewing
— Guaranteed window seat for every guest
— Charging points and an on-board fridge
— Binoculars and field guides on board
— Radio contact and first-aid kit
Guest reviews
★★★★★
“Our guide seemed to know where every animal would be before it appeared. Faultless from start to finish.”
Sarah & James · United Kingdom
★★★★★
“We travelled with three children and every detail had been thought through. The kids still talk about it.”
The Okafor family · Nigeria
★★★★★
“Our planner answered every question within hours and the whole trip ran like clockwork.”
Daniel M. · Canada
Responsible travel
The wild places we share depend on the people who live alongside them. We design every safari to support both.
— We employ Tanzanian guides, drivers and office staff
— We favour camps that partner with communities and conservancies
— We support conservation and education projects near the parks we visit
— We follow park rules and keep respectful distances from wildlife
— We help guests offset and reduce their travel footprint
FAQs
Can't find what you're looking for? Our planners are happy to help.
Ask a questionWhat is included in an Asili safari?
Private vehicle and guide, park and conservation fees, accommodation, meals as per itinerary, drinking water on game drives, airport transfers and 24/7 support. International flights, visas, insurance and tips are not included. Every proposal lists inclusions clearly.
Can I customise my itinerary?
Yes, always. Our published safaris are starting points. We can change the length, parks, lodges and pace, or design something entirely new around you.
How far in advance should I book?
For peak season (June to October) and the calving season, 6 to 12 months ahead is ideal. Gorilla permits and popular camps sell out early. Shorter-notice trips are often possible, so just ask.
Do you cater for families, couples and solo travellers?
Yes. Because every safari is private, we tailor the pace, accommodation and activities to whoever is travelling, from honeymooners to multi-generation families.
Is it safe to travel to Tanzania?
Tanzania is one of Africa's most stable and welcoming countries. On safari you are always with an experienced guide. We brief every guest on health, safety and local customs before travel, and recommend checking your government's latest travel advice.
Do I need travel insurance?
Yes. Comprehensive travel insurance including medical evacuation is required for all our safaris, and high-altitude cover is essential for Kilimanjaro climbs.
Seating plans
Seats are set out in pairs, so every guest sits by a window and can stand up under the pop-up roof. Your bags travel behind the back row, and drinks stay cold in the fridge.
7 guests + driver-guide
5 guests + driver-guide