Ep 2 Private Luxury African Safaris with Tom LaRock

Welcome to the Luxury Travelers podcast, where we explore the epitome of luxury travel with industry leaders. In today's episode, host Rodney George sits down with Tom LaRock, CEO of Safari Professionals, to delve into the unparalleled safari experience offered by their company. Catering exclusively to discerning high-end travelers seeking personalized adventures, Safari Professionals crafts tailored itineraries and customized experiences that redefine luxury in the wild. With destinations spanning over ten countries in Africa and other magnificent countries, each safari promises a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to immerse oneself in these iconic regions’ majestic landscapes and awe-inspiring wildlife. Join us as we uncover the extraordinary tales and unforgettable moments that await those who embark on a safari with Safari Professionals.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [02:31] Tom explains the art of safari design
• [03:32] As a young boy, Tom loved to study Africa, and he discusses his fondness for Tanzania and Botswana
• [08:25] Tom outlines new destinations, including an exciting venture into Madagascar, and he talks about the company’s emphasis on wildlife conservation
• [11:52] Tom talks about the importance of the guides provided by their company and the ability to set your own pace and destination not offered by other companies and how the local accommodations surpass American brand hotels located in the area
• [15:03] Discussion around charitable purposes in zoos and aquariums they work with and the Naples Zoo safaris
• [19:20] Tom invites listeners to book through Luxe Travel to receive incentives, and he provides an example of how Safari Professionals will do whatever it takes to accommodate the wishes of a private traveler
• [23:13] Tom explains how his company prepares travelers for their elite destination experience and the VIP experience that awaits them if traveling to Tanzania, Kenya and South Africa
• [26:57] Rodney talks about the invaluable memories that are created

KEY TAKEAWAYS: 

• [2:37] Over the years, Safari Professionals has designed a platform for determining what luxury travelers expect from a safari. They call this the art of safari design, and it ensures that travelers’ needs and expectations are met.
• [3:46] Tom studied British East Africa in fifth grade. That study instilled in him a passion for wildlife and the people of Africa, which he can now share with others through Safari Professionals.
• [6:05] Tanzania’s number one draw is the Great Serengeti Migration. The Okavango Delta in Botswana and the famous Kalahari Desert offer something no other country can because you travel by combining customized land rovers and water travel.

RESOURCES:

Luxury Travelers - Podcast

Luxe Travel - Website

Luxe Travel - Facebook

Luxe Travel - Instagram

Safari Professionals - Website

Tom LaRock - Email

Tom LaRock - Phone: 703-981-4474

GUEST BIOGRAPHY: Tom LaRock

As the former Executive Director of the Friends of the National Zoo, Tom’s commitment to conservation comes from his lifelong passion for wildlife and the challenges faced by those dedicated to preserving and restoring our natural world. As the CEO (Chief Exploration Officer) of Safari Professionals, he continues to develop and maintain our partnerships with successful wildlife conservation teams throughout the world.

Safari travel and conservation are intertwined, with safari tourism playing a significant role in supporting the protection of wildlife and their habitats. By generating revenue, fostering awareness, and actively participating in conservation efforts, safari travelers contribute to preserving Earth’s biodiversity.

To help potential travelers identify their priorities, Safari Professionals relies on Tom’s extensive knowledge of wildlife, safari guides and accommodations to help travelers craft an itinerary that meets or exceeds their expectations while staying focused on sustainable and responsible travel.

“My fascination with Africa began in elementary school when East Africa was the subject of geography class. I remember those first photographic images of abundant African wildlife and colorfully dressed people. Visits to a small, nearby zoo focused my interest on the animals of these far-away lands, especially lions and elephants. I still have the same reaction to a male lion’s roar as a child – the hairs on the back of my neck stand up.”

“My career eventually led me to a city with a great zoo, where I became a volunteer fund-raiser. I got involved, and, in time, I changed careers to become the zoo’s marketing and fund-raising director. Starting a travel program for the zoo, I developed the first African safari to Kenya in 1983 and have enjoyed helping others experience the wonders of the world’s wildlife ever since.

In addition to ten African countries, Safari Professionals offers safaris to various worldwide wildlife destinations, such as Ecuador’s Galapagos Islands, Costa Rica, Panama, Peru, Patagonia, India, Malaysia, Indonesia, Canada and Australia. As fascinating as these places are, I’m always drawn back to Africa with its unique wildlife and engaging people.”

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