Nick Van Gruisen, founder of The Ultimate Travel Company, shares reflections from a recent safari through Uganda and northern Kenya. Travelling by private aircraft between remote camps and national parks, the journey revealed some of East Africa’s most extraordinary wilderness areas, alongside pioneering conservation efforts and a level of exclusivity few destinations can now offer.
Africa has long been central to Nick’s story. In the 1970s, he spent five years working as a professional guide in Botswana and southern Africa, an experience that shaped both his understanding of the continent and his approach to travel. Since establishing The Ultimate Travel Company in 1991, he has continued to explore Africa extensively, returning year after year in search of new camps, conservation projects and wilderness experiences that still feel genuine.
A New Chapter for Conservation
Our first nights were spent in the far north-east of Uganda, in what is perhaps the most beautiful national park I have ever visited. Sweeping savannah dotted with acacia and sausage trees it is framed by dramatic mountain ranges — quite breathtaking.
The wildlife was equally impressive. Kidepo National Park holds Africa’s largest population of buffalo and, very likely, wart hogs — they were everywhere. There was also an abundance of antelope; we saw ten species, including the unusual white-eared kob.
This remarkable “larder” exists largely due to the absence of predators. Leopards are present, as are a very small number of cheetah — the only place they are found in Uganda — but sadly the lion population is extremely low. This is largely due to relentless poaching during Covid from neighbouring South Sudan. Encouragingly, there are plans underway to reintroduce around thirty lions in the near future.
Hope for One of Africa’s Finest Parks
Perched on a rocky kopje overlooking the sweeping Narus Valley, Apoka Safari Lodge is the only fully serviced lodge within Kidepo National Park. The lodge itself was extremely comfortable, with charming staff and excellent food. Its spacious rooms, crafted from wood, thatch and canvas, open onto private verandas with outdoor bathtubs, perfect for soaking in the solitude. During our four-night stay, we saw only two other vehicles – an extraordinary sense of exclusivity. It is a peaceful yet luxurious base from which to explore one of Africa’s most remote and wildlife-rich parks.
We were joined one evening by Ian Craig, the conservationist behind Lewa Downs and the Northern Rangelands Trust. He explained that the very next day he would be introducing white rhino to the park, with further reintroductions planned, including black rhino.
It is already one of the finest parks I have visited, and with the return of lions and rhino, it has the potential to become one of Africa’s most outstanding destinations.
Where Wilderness Still Feels Infinite
“It was truly the experience of a lifetime”
All ten guests agreed it was truly the experience of a lifetime: exceptional wildlife, spectacular scenery, complete exclusivity, and comfort throughout.
Hamish Van Gruisen will be leading a similar safari in February 2027, and I would strongly encourage you to consider joining. The safari accommodates just eleven guests — five doubles and one single — so early booking is highly recommended.
Join Us for an Extraordinary Escorted Safari
Join Hamish Van Gruisen in February 2027 for the Uganda & Kenya Flying Safari, an extraordinary escorted journey. Having travelled extensively across Africa, from the savannahs of East Africa to some of the continent’s most remote wilderness regions, Hamish brings deep knowledge and an instinct for adventure to this remarkable safari.
Call +44 (0) 2039 933538 or make an online enquiry.
Image credits: Nick Van Gruisen