Extraordinary Journeys has acquired Game Plan Africa from veteran
safari planners Vee and David Thompson, bringing together two luxury Africa
experts.
Vee and David Thompson, both raised in South Africa, founded Game
Plan Africa 18 years ago, attracting a local clientele who appreciated not only
their deep knowledge of Southern Africa, but hands-on service, the strong ethos
of supporting conservation and giving back to local communities, principles
that were important to Extraordinary Journeys.
CEO Elizabeth Gordon said, “For Extraordinary Journeys to find another
family company that has the same deep roots in Southern Africa that
Marcia [Gordon, president and co-founder] and I have in East Africa
is an ideal way to grow the company without changing our culture. The
acquisition will enable Extraordinary Journeys to capitalize on its
investment in creating systems to provide the ultimate in customer service and
care and will help to grow the business in a logical and consistent manner.”
Vee Thompson explained the sale, saying: “For the past 18 years
Game Plan Africa has been a major part of Dave’s and my life. The time has come
to hand over the reins of our company to another travel company that has the
same excellent relationships with our partners on the ground in
Africa and that operates in the same professional and caring manner with
clients. I am confident that Extraordinary Journeys has the right expertise and
knowledge of the African Safari business to carry on where we leave off.”
The staff of Game Plan Africa will join the Extraordinary
Journeys team, providing a seamless transition for both existing and future
customers.
Based in New York, Extraordinary Journeys oversees luxury
safari experiences to more than 25 countries, including Botswana, Kenya,
Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, Zimbabwe
and Congo, as well a group of luxury adventures that embody the essential
safari experience in South America, Asia and Australia.