Bringing Africa Closer: Meet Wander Africa
This local Black Mountain business is one I’ve wanted to share with you for a while. Because so many of our readers are adventurers in spirit — which is exactly why we all love Asheville — I think you’ll be inspired by what they’re creating.
Maybe you’ve always dreamed of watching elephants at sunrise or hearing lions call across the savanna at night — but never knew where to start. Safaris can feel like an impossible dream: too far away, too complicated, too many choices. That’s where Wander Africa comes in.
From Kenya to Black Mountain
Wander Africa was founded by Jay Parmar, who grew up in Kenya with the safari world. Safaris weren’t something he read about — they were part of life. Now, after years of working in the travel industry and personally visiting hundreds of properties across Africa, Jay and his wife, Brandi, have made Black Mountain their home base. Collectively, they have explored countless lodges and camps across the continent, giving them the insight to curate the most thoughtful, personalized journeys.
Their company curates bespoke journeys for travelers around the world, blending first-hand expertise with a deep commitment to conservation and community. Every trip they design is both seamless and soulful — whether it’s tracking gorillas in Rwanda, flying low over Botswana’s Okavango Delta, or sitting by the fire with Samburu guides who share their stories of the land.
Why a Safari?
A safari isn’t just another trip — it’s the kind of experience that changes the way you see the world. Picture sipping coffee as the sun rises over the savanna, hearing the low rumble of elephants nearby. Or ending the day with sundowners on a ridge, as giraffes wander in the distance. Safaris invite you into moments that are wild, humbling, and unforgettable — a rare chance to connect deeply with nature, people, and yourself.
Wander Africa’s Way
What makes Wander Africa different is the way Jay and Brandi bring together luxury and authenticity. They partner with lodges and guides who share their values, ensuring that your travel supports conservation efforts and local communities. And while the logistics of a safari can feel daunting, they simplify everything so you can focus on what matters: the experience.
Why Black Mountain?
Though Wander Africa plans safaris for clients all over the world, Black Mountain is home — and that matters. “This community loves nature, adventure, and connection,” Jay says. “It feels like the perfect place to share Africa’s magic.” Living in Western North Carolina, Jay and Brandi have met people from all over the world, many with deep connections to Africa, which makes this feel like a natural place for Wander Africa to be rooted for now.
For locals who have always dreamed of lions at dawn or gorillas in the mist but didn’t know where to begin, Wander Africa is here as a resource, guide, and neighbor.
Ready to take the first step? Wander Africa invites you to start the conversation. Visit wanderafrica.com or meet up with Jay and Brandi for coffee — because maybe, the journey of a lifetime can begin right here in the Blue Ridge Mountains.