extraordinary journeys inc

We can create your once in a lifetime family safari experience

• Multi-Award Winning Company voted by readers from T+L
• Custom packages made specifically for your family
• Best Safari experts in the US and Africa

Every moment of your trip you can simply enjoy being there

Expanding your children’s small world with eye-opening travels to Africa can be life-changing. Just ask EJ co-founder, Elizabeth Gordon,  who grew up living and traveling on this beautiful continent . She now spends her days helping other families do the same alongside her mom and co-founder, Marcia, plus their expert team of family safari specialists.

Unlike most others in the safari business, Extraordinary Journeys can customize any tour to make it kid-friendly and perfectly suited to the stage in life your family is at right now. So why wait? The options are practically limitless.

Try us out. Have a conversation with our specialists who can understand exactly what it is you’re looking for in your Extraordinary Journey. We can brainstorm with you and make sure your needs are met and your concerns are addressed.

“wonderful”

“tour of a lifetime”

“an incredible resource”

“a top operator”

“I would work with her again in a heartbeat!”

Extraordinary Safaris

Destination highlights

How To Safari With Kids: 5 Amazing Destinations For Your Family

We know what you’re thinking: How on earth can I take my kids on a safari? What about safety and rigid schedules and my antsy seven-year-old? And aren’t safaris geared toward adults? Where do I even BEGIN

Experiences

Safari Activities Your Teens Will Love

It’s one thing to tote the tots along on your safari, and another to keep a brooding, smartphone-addicted teenager excited about a week, or longer, of quality family time with little-to-no Wifi access. Here is our list of favorite activities that our teen clients and their families have raved about on recent safaris.

Where to stay

9 perfect properties for multi-generational travel

A safari with the  whole   family, from toddler to grandma, may seem impossible considering the multigenerational group’s differing preferences and priorities, energy levels, abilities, interests, and amenity requirements. The good news is it’s not! We’ve found the best properties that will take care of everyone’s needs, no problem.

Itineraries

A conservation safari for the whole family

Enjoy a  ‘Safaris with a Purpose’ itinerary organized exclusively for you and your family.

• Join an Elephant collaring / Rhino notching / Lion (or other big cats) veterinarian procedure
• Visit of the local school in Molatedi Villa
• Meet  Rob Harrison White or one of the other local researchers in Madikwe Game Reserve

Why Travel with US?

​Our travel changes lives

We are first and foremost travelers who love exploring new places and pushing ourselves a little out of our comfort zones to grow and see the world differently. Travel changes us each time and we believe in creating trips that have that same lasting effect on you.

Every journey is unique

For that reason, we understand the importance of curating a trip as unique as you. No two itineraries are ever identical because everyone’s interests, comfort levels and senses of adventure are different.

We are a team

Perhaps because we were founded by a mother-daughter team, we care about each other and work together like a family. This means you have the brain trust of the entire company collaborating on your trip instead of an individual.

We have been there

We place a premium on education. Every year, our team spends a combined 9+ months on the ground researching new camps, tracking wildlife trends, and identifying the best guides for your safari.

We care about you

You’ll never find us bragging about the number of people we send to Africa each year or referring to clients in terms of ‘volume or buying power’. We really enjoy getting to know our travelers (it takes time to plan a safari, after all) and build relationships that span decades and many repeat trips.

We love a bargain too

We translate our relationships on the ground, knowledge across Africa, and practicality into a trip that offers exceptional value for your money and fun surprise ‘value adds’ along the way. If there is a “special” deal on a property, we will find it for you!

What our Customers Say

In a word, Extraordinary Journeys made our dreams come true. They planned everything exactly the way we wanted and stayed within our budget.The accommodations they arranged for us were perfect and exactly as promised or better. They provided us with all kinds of useful information and tips prior to our trip so we knew exactly what to expect. They were always quick to respond to any questions we had. I could not be happier with the whole experience. We had a once in a lifetime trip for our 25th anniversary and checked this off our bucket list. I recommend this company to anyone. Absolutely!!!!

Jenna was AMAZING! Start to finish I can not say enough abut just how happy we were with her and this company. Was absolutely the trip of lifetime for myself, my family and our friends that snuck their way into this trip late in the planning AND it also turned out to be life altering as well for all of us. We cannot WAIT to do another trip with her and her team! Thank you for your amazing help with our trip Jenna (and Gena)!

We have a member of our team available to you 24/7 during your travel.

A mother and daughter run company

Years of living and working in Africa have instilled founders Marcia and Elizabeth Gordon with a sure sense of what makes a memorable safari, whether it be in Asia, Australia, South America or Africa. It is a sensibility that is shared by our team, most of whom have traveled extensively and lived overseas. We truly believe that you can “have it all” – comfort, adventure and style.

Feel inspired

First Hand Experience

Why I Took My Daughter on Safari in Botswana?

How to hug a baby elephant

Child Friendly Restaurants in Cape Town and the winelands

Meet private guide Jackson Looseyia from Big Cat Diary

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Plan your perfect Safari with Extraordinary Journeys

We had a wonderful honeymoon thanks to the meticulous planning by Jenny and the rest of the team at Extraordinary Journeys. Every day, there were new surprises in store for us that made for an overall magical trip.

Talk with a Safari Expert

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Take an Extraordinary Journey to Africa

Book a free consultation with a destination expert, book & plan, plan your custom trip to patagonia, with our extraordinary experts, talk to your africa expert and receive a special offer, sign up now for a, free trip consultation., find luxury in unexpected places.

We believe that seeing the world is more than just travel—it’s about taking a journey. Our dedicated team of experts will work with you to provide the perfect experience,

precisely tailored to what you want to see and how you want to experience it, providing luxury and comfort along the way.

What to Expect From Your Call With an Extraordinary Journeys Destination Specialist:

• A personalized consultation with one of our experienced Africa destination specialists who will help determine the best destinations and activities to match your interests.
• Insider city guides to make the most of your time in Africa from a specialist with extensive local expertise.
• Insights into all of your questions about the small (but big!) details that you might not be considering. Whether its " How do I take a bucket shower? " or " What's a lodge hop flight? ", our experts have been through it all and can put your mind at ease.
• A customized sample itinerary developed just for you, including camps, lodges, flights and activities that all fit within your budget.
• A free copy of Extraordinary Moments, our in-house magazine featuring new perspectives on travel.

Africa Experts

Anisha barrientos, why africa.

For many travelers, Africa is the ultimate destination. The cultures and adventures you can experience are as diverse as the countries—whether it’s Kenya, South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, or beyond each has something unique to offer.

Africa is a unique place on this planet and planning a trip there requires a steady hand—one with the knowledge and experience to do it right. 

Traveling to Africa is a big investment, let our experts guide you. Whether it’s a family trip, a honeymoon, adventure travel, or cultural immersion, we will hand craft an itinerary that matches your interests.

Patagonia Travel Highlights:

Hike in the iconic Los Glaciares and Torres del Paine National Parks.

Kayak beneath towering glaciers and witness majestic wildlife.

Experience the thrill of puma tracking and whale watching.

Discover the charm of Ushuaia, the city at the end of the world.

Extraordinary Journeys’

Trips unique.

When most people think about Africa they’re thinking about Kenya. The country's rich wildlife, wide open plains, lone acacia trees, and rich traditional cultures make it the undisputed origin of the modern safari. Luxury safaris in Kenya feature early morning and afternoon off-road game drives, sunset drinks, gourmet dinners, hot air ballooning and nighttime activities like stargazing and night drives, offering a mix of wildlife viewing and relaxation.

With the largest population of elephants in all of Africa, Botswana is a game viewer’s dream.  Botswana’s government prioritizes sustainable travel. This makes luxury safaris in the country some of the most expensive but least crowded and most exclusive on the continent.  Fly above the palm-fringed oasis of the Okavango Delta, safari by boat, mokoro, walking, or traditional game drives and see some of the world’s most unique wildlife up close.

With the largest population of elephants in all of Africa, Botswana is a game viewer’s dream.  Botswana’s government prioritizes sustainable travel. This makes luxury safaris in the country some of the most expensive but least crowded and most exclusive on the continent.  Fly above the palm-fringed oasis of the Okavango Delta, safari by boat, mokoro, walking, or traditional game drives and see some of the world’s most unique wildlife up close. Itinerary Inspiration

Known as “the land of a thousand hills,” Rwanda is a country teaming with life. While a Rwanda safari has traditionally not been thought of as a classic Big 5 safari, its four national parks are inhabited by an abundance of animals and birdlife. However, it’s the gorilla trekking that makes this a totally unique destination in Africa. Rwanda offers world-class service and accommodation standards, with the accompanying price tag.

Tanzania is a beautiful country of diverse landscapes ranging from imposing volcanic peaks to endless stretches of open plains to white sand beaches.  From top to bottom and east to west, Tanzania offers an authentic East African safari experience:   Big Five sightings, luxurious tented safari camps, and rich cultural encounters.

South Africa

South Africa offers something for everybody. Whether it’s cosmopolitan Capetown,  the winelands, or the country’s natural beauty, this luxurious package is the perfect escape. With so much to see and do, a South African safari is an experience that appeals to a range of people. 

Namibia is a land of contrasts—where sand dunes tumble into the ocean, dotted by mysterious shipwrecks, highlighted by vivid oranges and blues.  The country is a mix of striking landscapes, unmatched star-gazing, prehistoric plants and unique desert-adapted animals. Ancient cultures continue their age-old traditions, alongside modern cities and quirky towns.

High-Caliber Guiding:

Expert guides who bring the culture, history, and nature of Patagonia to life.

Seamless Travel:

We handle the complexities of traveling in Patagonia, ensuring a worry-free experience.

Memorable Luxury Lodges:

Stay in extraordinary accommodations offering unparalleled views, service, and regional cuisine.

24/7 Support:

Our team is always available, providing in-destination assistance whenever you need it.

Your Extraordinary Patagonia Journey Awaits

Schedule Your Call with a South American Expert

Extraordinary journeys.

As a women-led team, we prioritize care for our clients, the environment, and communities, offering personalized travel experiences rooted in deep connections to the destination, nature, and oneself. Our unique approach ensures each trip is as unique as you, combining luxury with authentic experiences that push you slightly out of your comfort zone for transformational travel moments. 

Our deep knowledge of destinations, commitment to conservation, and focus on sustainable travel practices underscore our mission to create impactful, joy-filled adventures. We’re with you every step, ensuring trust, safety, and unforgettable experiences, all while contributing positively to local communities and conservation efforts.

With our local, on-the-ground experience and long-standing relationships, we know how to make every journey you take in Africa an Extraordinary one. 

This means you get to experience Africa for everything it offers, without the stress and worry that interferes with enjoyment. No two itineraries are ever the same. So begin your journey today.

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Africa Designations

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Extraordinary Journeys

Extraordinary experiences, locations, and memories

• Company  Profile
• Destinations

Led by mother-daughter pair, Marcia & Elizabeth Gordon, Extraordinary Journeys specializes in creating unique, custom-built safaris to East and Southern Africa. We emphasize first-hand knowledge, personalized service, and social responsibility. Our team has helped thousands of clients plan their dream safaris. From accommodation to transportation, we will craft your ideal trip, taking care of every detail along the way.

Safaris & Tours 0 – Offered by Extraordinary Journeys

No safaris offered by Extraordinary Journeys on SafariBookings at the moment.

Reviews 34 – About Extraordinary Journeys

Latest user review, extraordinary excellence.

I need to preface my review by saying my wife and I used the services of one company to hike to Machu Picchu. We used a different company to coordinate our trip to the Galapagos Islands. So then at the beginning stages of planning for a...

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• All corporate and/or tour info is provided by Extraordinary Journeys, not SafariBookings
• The tours offered by Extraordinary Journeys are subject to their terms & conditions

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Extraordinary Journeys: An Acquisition Expedition

By: David Halliday

In late 2015, the chief executive officer of Extraordinary Journeys, an African safari tour operator, faced a rare opportunity to buy a smaller competitor, Safari Specialists Inc. The chief executive…

• Length: 9 page(s)
• Publication Date: Feb 18, 2021
• Discipline: Strategy
• Product #: W21052-PDF-ENG

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In late 2015, the chief executive officer of Extraordinary Journeys, an African safari tour operator, faced a rare opportunity to buy a smaller competitor, Safari Specialists Inc. The chief executive officer worried that her firm's strong organic growth would slow, and she was interested in examining alternative growth strategies. The smaller company was offered at a reasonable price and had a remarkably similar organizational culture. On the other hand, it relied heavily on outside contractors, not employees, creating potentially difficult human resources challenges. Further, it was located in rural Georgia, far from the Extraordinary Journeys home office in downtown Manhattan. All things considered, the chief executive officer was wondering if she should buy her competitor.

David Halliday is affiliated with George Washington University.

Learning Objectives

This case could be taught as part of an undergraduate- or graduate-level course in strategy, corporate finance, or HR. This case was originally written for use as an integration exercise in a capstone MBA strategic management class. It is meant to tie together business strategy, HR strategy, and corporate finance. There is a good deal of information in the case, so professors in strategy, management, and finance can guide the discussion in a broad range of directions that are relevant for their specific courses. This case was written to fill a specific gap around teaching strategy holistically to students who struggle to integrate multiple business disciplines. After working through the case and assignment questions, students will be able to integrate strategy with critical corporate finance and human resources (HR) topics; use the theories of Porter, and Ghemawat and Rivkin to analyze the core competitive advantage of EJ in order to decide if a mergers-and-acquisitions (M&A) activity makes sense; understand the analysis of critical qualitative factors in a primarily quantitative M&A decision; and better understand the structure of the travel industry, especially within the luxury segment.

Feb 18, 2021

Discipline:

Geographies:

United States

Industries:

Media, entertainment, and professional sports, Travel and tourism industry

Ivey Publishing

W21052-PDF-ENG

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Extraordinary Journeys: An Acquisition Expedition

About This Product

Learning objectives.

• integrate strategy with critical corporate finance and human resources (HR) topics;
• use the theories of Porter, and Ghemawat and Rivkin to analyze the core competitive advantage of EJ in order to decide if a mergers-and-acquisitions (M&A) activity makes sense;
• understand the analysis of critical qualitative factors in a primarily quantitative M&A decision; and
• better understand the structure of the travel industry, especially within the luxury segment.

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Teaching and learning

Extraordinary Journeys Stories to Inspire

Mr. hancock’s story.

Now, in his retirement, he is determined to experience it all…Last May, he attended the Kentucky Derby in box seats, horses right behind many of the participating trainers and owners.

A month later, he flew first class to Argentina to see a Polo match, meet the players, and their mounts.

That Autumn, he lived for two weeks with a family on a small horse farm in the south of Ireland where they breed, foal, and break thoroughbreads for racing all over the world.

He spent a week in winter on the island of Shakelford Banks, photographing wild ponies.

This spring, he flew to Aiken, South Carolina, stayed in a historic four-story hotel, and arrived in a private carriage to witness some of the finest Steeple Chase in North America.

Mr. Hancock has loved horses all his life. Now, he has a year’s worth of of seasonal experiences to remember and hold close to his heart.

Julie & Amanda’s Story

Each year, Julie and Amanda choose a particular part of the world to explore together…Most recently they traveled to Italy to live in private, fully staffed, country villas and opulent city apartments. Here, they practiced the art of “slow food” at its source.

In Florence there were oils – from cold crushed to stone milled. And the pleasure of discerning the body, the acidity, the fruitness of each. In Tuscany vineyards, they focused on wines. In Sicily, they indulged in seafood and fruits. In Bologna, it was grains and pastas. Everywhere they traveled they were immersed in the culture, the history, the community.

In the end, they discovered that slow food is more than art, it is a way of life. And it is best when savored for hours on end, with friends of the heart.

The Healys’ Story

So for their 50th wedding anniversary, they flew first class to Warsaw… They stayed in the heart of this historic city where, in the Fall of 1939, the music of its native son, Frédéric Chopin, was broadcast day and night to buoy the spirits of its citizens while they suffered constant terror from Nazi bombing.

From there they followed the trail of Chopin’s life: Vienna, Stuttgart, Paris, Nohant; the island of Majorca, where Chopin pursued the tempestuous love affair of his life with authoress George Sand.

Residing in the most elite salons of Europe, attending customized recitals almost nightly. For 21 days, the Healys experienced the lifestyle of the great composer himself.

They departed for home with a small urn of Polish earth, in remembrance of the one given to Chopin by his teacher with this message: “May you never forget your native land wherever you may go, nor cease to love it with a warm and faithful heart.”

Chopin carried the urn for the rest of his life.  Perhaps the Healys will too.

Tom & Melinda’s Story

So, together with their design consultant, they flew first class into Heathrow… A personal car and driver were waiting when they arrived at the airport.

They leased a private flat in London’s posh West End. Took day trips to all major furniture crafters and fabric designers in the realm. Spent weekends in the guest quarters of the nation’s most notable estates.

There were long hours at Harrods, of course. Down Portibello Road for antiques. Ireland for crystal. Wales for carpets. Scotland for original art.

Eventually all their purchases were carefully packed and shipped back to the States. Today, Tom and Melinda’s new home is immersed in genuine English ambiance with enough personal memories to furnish a lifetime.

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