bench africa tours

The Benchmark For African Travel Since 1969

Your 2024 Safari Adventure BEGINS HERE

55 years of Bench Africa

Africa your way.

The Africa you've dreamed of is a few steps away. Download Bench Africa's fabulous new brochure now and your dreams will come to life.

Don't worry if it all looks a bit much at first. Making sense of all the options so you get the African safari of your dreams is what we do best. And we love doing it.

Whether you're looking for a family adventure, or a romantic escape, turn those dreams into reality by downloading this brochure now.

Excellence Through Experience

We know africa.

Bench Africa pioneered safaris to Africa from Australia in 1969 and continues to set the benchmark for quality and excellence in the industry. Experienced travel agents rely on Bench Africa to provide their customers with unforgettable African safari experiences.

55 years of know-how

Africa Your Way

Whether you're looking for a family adventure, or a romantic escape, turn those dreams into reality by downloading this brochure now..

With the release of our new brochure, we aim to inspire your next great adventure with a fresh twist on well-known destinations but also introduce you to remote regions in Africa that you may not yet be aware of – after all, these are often the areas that need support most of all, and the more travellers who venture on safari, the more significant the impact we can have on a local level.

We are grateful to everyone who has shared our ‘safari’ over the past 54 years, and we look forward to helping you embrace the road less travelled, safe in the knowledge that our team has journeyed that same road before you.

– Take The First Step

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For all the information you need to make the best choice in 2024, add your name and email in the fields below, and we'll send you your Brochure!

1300 AFRICA (237 422 )

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The Africa you've dreamed of is a few steps away. Download Bench Africa's fabulous new brochure now and your dreams will come to life. Don't worry if it all looks a bit much at first. Making sense of all the options so you get the African safari of your dreams is what we do best. And we love doing it. Whether you're looking for a family adventure, or a romantic escape, turn those dreams into reality by downloading this brochure now.

We are grateful to everyone who has shared our 'safari' over the past 54 years, and we look forward to helping you embrace the road less travelled, safe in the knowledge that our team has journeyed that same road before you.

Take The First Step

Bench Africa pioneered safaris to Africa from Australia in 1969 and continues to set the benchmark for quality and excellence in the industry, solidifying our position as the premier provider of the finest African safaris. To this day, Bench Africa remains dedicated to upholding its high standards and providing its customers with unforgettable African safari experiences.

1300 AFRICA (237 422)

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Popular Bench Africa Tours

• About Bench Africa

Bench Africa has been taking Australians on African safari tours since 1969. It has an excellent reputation both in Australia and in Africa , and operates tours throughout Africa. Bench Africa's tour guides are among the most experienced in Africa and will make your African safari the experience of a lifetime. Destinations covered by Bench Africa include South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Kenya, Tanzania, Egypt and Morocco.

Why travel with Bench Africa

• Almost 50 years Africa tours experience
• Tailor-made, group and specialised tours available
• Monthly specials on sale
• Range of safaris including on horseback
• Australian run with parent company in Kenya

Popular Bench Africa tours

• Hightlights of East Africa (12 days)
• Grand Tour of South Africa (15 days)
• Northern Experience (24 days)
• Botswana Wildlife (15 days)
• Highlights of Africa (28 days)

Exceptional tour services

All Bench Africa consultants are specialists in Africa travel and are passionate about the destination. You can rest assured that whichever consultant helps you plan your trip has travelled to Africa and had the experiences you're looking to have.

Bench Africa’s Connoisseur Collection will show you the best of Africa in 5-star accommodation in some of the world’s most luxurious properties including Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge, located in the Greater Kruger National Park, and Kaya Mawa surrounded by the crystal waters of Lake Malawi.

Delight in Africa's finest moments

Cruise the River Nile or witness the epic annual wildebeest migration in Kenya and Tanzania. Adventurous travellers can climb Africa’s highest mountain Mt Kilimanjaro, see endangered gorillas in lush rainforests, or gaze at the breathtaking might of the Victoria Falls.

Choose from a variety of memorable journeys that leave you wanting more; whether that be sitting aboard a luxurious train on your way from Pretoria to Cape Town, riding horses alongside wild herds of giraffe or zebra, or honeymooning amongst the tranquil South African wilderness.

Did you know...

• Bench Africa supports African charities and conservation organisations like Rhino Ark, New Hope Children's Home, Satao Elerai Nursery School and the East African Wildlife Society
• You can book specific tours to include the migration season and other yearly events

Weather - 7 day forecast for Johannesburg

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"It could not have been better! All your arrangements worked like clock work with no hassles whatsoever. Both Okuti and Kanana lodges were outstanding, lovely rooms, good food, amazing service with wonderful and very pleasant staff from the guide to the room maid. It could not have been better! I can not fault anything and highly recommend the trip. I was able to see some wonderful wildlife, birds and animals. The guides were extremely knowledgeable and great company. Thanks so much for organising this wonderful adventure!"

Nev Juretic

...........................................................................................................................................................

Thank you for organising the trip so well and accommodating the changes we made to fine tune everything. Everything went absolutely perfectly to plan. Everybody was on time, nobody let us down, everybody was nice, helpful and friendly. Very stress free holiday which left us with energy to devote to things like waking at 5.30am for a game drive or quad biking for three hours on the dunes around Swakopmund.

On the food front we both came home with a few extra kilos. The food out of the camp kitchen at Chobe under Canvas was fantastic and would put a few other places with much more sophisticated facilities to shame. Thanks once again for organising such a wonderful holiday for us."

"I could not have been happier with my experience. Every aspect was seamelss - from the flights and airport transfers, to the incredible safari and magical few days at Victoria Falls. Thanks to the excellent advice provided by my consultant Hanna, I was able to get the most out of my stay. I will remember this trip for the rest of my life!"

Erin Mitchell

"We had the most wonderful holiday experience; one we'll never forget. Everyday was a new adventure, and we have no hesitation in recommending Bench Africa to our family and friends. Arrangements and pickups were always reliable and prompt. We appreciated the consideration and thoughtfulness of Bench when we had a slight hiccup in our travel plans in South Africa. Our holiday experience certainly exceeded our expectations!"

Mr & Mrs Sundrapandi

Africa Beat

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Top 10 Small Group Tours with Bench Africa

The allure of a group tour is a siren call to solo travellers seeking camaraderie, savvy explorers aiming to make the most of their budget, or those who relish the joys of shared adventure.  

In the wake of the global pandemic, the world has transformed how we travel and explore new destinations, with travel enthusiasts embracing a new perspective on exploration and adventure, ticking off their bucket list items now rather than waiting for that “one day” to make their ultimate travel dreams a reality. Let’s be honest, Africa has always been on your bucket list, right? But for many, it has been put on the back burner. Well, not anymore! If the pandemic has taught us anything, it’s to seize the day!

For those of you who share a passion for exploration and a deep love for the raw beauty of the African continent, these Bench Africa tours are bound to spark wanderlust and inspire your next great adventure. These journeys have captured the hearts of countless happy travellers over the years, offering immersive experiences that transcend the ordinary and fostering connections among like-hearted adventure seekers. 

Travel with a dedicated professional guide throughout your trip, discovering some of our favourite places and staying at unique properties in comfort and style. Rest assured that you will be taken care of from the moment you arrive until your reluctant departure, and you will leave with special memories and new friends.  

With so many excellent small group tours to choose from, there has never been a better time to plan your dream Africa holiday with Bench Africa. Here are their top 10 tours.

Migration Safari

8 Days from $5,205 per person | Departs weekly Jul-Oct

Don’t miss the incredible Great Wildebeest Migration on one of the best-selling small group tours. Your chance to experience this remarkable natural phenomenon, the iconic river crossing in Kenya’s Masai Mara. You will also enjoy a 2-night stay at Lake Nakuru, situated within the enchanting Great Rift Valley.

Explore Kenya – Ladies Safari

10 Days from $6,990 per person | Departs 03 Jun & 21 Nov 2024

This escorted small group tour is fast becoming one of the most popular. Discover Kenya’s highlights: Tsavo’s ochre-red elephants, Amboseli against the backdrop of Kilimanjaro, the Great Rift Valley lakes and the iconic Masai Mara’s abundant wildlife, in the company of other fearless female explorers.

Discover East Africa – Escorted Tour

16 Days from $16,840 per person | Departs 12 Jun 2024

Embark on a safari through the captivating landscapes and rich wildlife of Kenya and Tanzania. This newly released fully escorted small group tour has been carefully crafted to provide an intimate experience by road and air.

Highlights of East Africa

13 Days from $10,495 per person | Departs Weekly, year round

This is Bench Africa’s best-selling safari for good reason. As the name suggests you will experience the highlights of East Africa on this all-encompassing small group tour in Kenya and Tanzania by road.

South Africa Odyssey

14 Days from $5,275 per person | Scheduled Departures, year round

Embark on a journey to uncover South Africa’s captivating contrasts. Explore some of the highlights of this magnificent country on this small group tour, with cultural and historical experiences in Eswatini (Swaziland) and Zululand.

Magnificent Garden Route

4 Days from $1,345 per person | Scheduled Departures, year round

Experience South Africa’s Garden Route on this small group tour, with scenic beauty, charming towns and Knysna Lagoon’s allure. Pristine beaches, mountains, forests, and serene lakes – the ideal way to relax after your safari.

Southern Africa Uncovered

20 Days from $6,795 per person | Scheduled Departures, year round

Journey through Cape Town to Victoria Falls on this small group tour. Travel overland through the Kalahari and Namib deserts exploring rich culture and wildlife. Explore Cape Town, the Okavango, Namib’s dunes, the Chobe River, and Victoria Falls.

Northern Experience

24 Days from $8,775 per person | Scheduled Departures, year round

Journey through South Africa, Namibia, Botswana and Zimbabwe. Experience Victoria Falls, Namibia’s dunes and a great tapestry of wildlife and culture. Blending comfort, safari and adventure, this small group tour is a firm favourite for many past clients.

Botswana Wildlife

15 Days from $5,990 per person | Scheduled Departures, year round

Embark on a journey through Zimbabwe and Botswana. Explore the savannahs of Hwange, the captivating Chobe region, the watery wilds of the Okavango, and majestic Victoria Falls. Encounter wildlife wonders and breathtaking landscapes on this small group tour.

Diverse Namibia

10 Days from $6,395 per person | Scheduled Departures, year round

Embrace Namibia’s diversity on this small group tour. With vibrant adventure, dunes, plains and wildlife. Witness Sossusvlei’s iconic red dunes, Damaraland’s desert-adapted wildlife and Etosha’s natural predators. Namibia is an extraordinary destination for an unparalleled, multifaceted adventure.

To book with Bench Africa, phone 1300 237 422, email [email protected] or visit www.benchafrica.com

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Africa Beat is the source of all your news and updates in the travel industry out of Africa. You will find also find reviews and features focused on Africa.

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Tailor Made Safaris, Group Tours & Independent Holidays

South Africa • Namibia • Botswana • Zimbabwe • Zambia • Malawi • Kenya • Tanzania • Zanzibar • Uganda • Rwanda • Madagascar • Mauritius • Mozambique • Egypt • Morocco • Jordan • Oman • Dubai • Abu Dhabi

This is a collection of incomparable experiences throughout Africa from natural landscapes to cityscapes to mountains, salt pans, rivers, waterfalls, beaches and oceans.

Celebrating 50 Years

Bench Africa, the founders of African Safari holidays in Australia way back in 1969, has the experience and knowledge of the continent to ensure that your holiday exceeds expectations. Whatever you choose to do in Africa, Bench Africa's reputation guarantees that you will receive the very best of care and attention.

The Bench Africa team of consultants has travelled and experienced Africa and is as passionate about this beautiful continent and what it offers in the way of wildlife, culture and the many varied landscapes as you will be.

Choose the African experience that suits you, whether you've been before or are going for the very first time.

Bench Africa has been taking Australians on safari in Africa for 50 years and has good relationships with a number of operators there, ensuring smooth, effortless travel to Africa's best spots.

Enjoy the wildlife, culture and scenery of countries as far apart as South Africa, Kenya and Tanzania. Add the attractions of Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Mozambique, Namibia, Rwanda, Uganda and, more recently, Malawi and you have countless opportunities for an unforgettable "African Experience".

Highlights featured include Kruger National Park, the Blue Train and the Cape Winelands in South Africa, the Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe and Zambia, the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania, home to 3 million animals, the Okavango Delta in Botswana, the incredible sand dunes of Sossusvlei in Namibia, the great animal migration through Tanzania and Kenya to the Masai Mara, Kilimanjaro in Kenya, the incredible experience of trekking through gorilla territory in Rwanda and Uganda, seeing the pyramids and the museums in Egypt… plus details on how to top it all off with an island stay in Mauritius, Mozambique, Lamu or Zanzibar.

Tailor Made Safaris

As an alternative to joining one of the many scheduled departures throughout Africa, why not consider your very own private safari? Bench Africa has the flexibility to tailor an itinerary to suit you – and in some areas even with your own personal driver/guide. This way you can travel when you wish, to the destinations that you choose. From small boutique hotels in Cape Town to popular game lodges and remote tented camps in the bush, there is something for everyone. No matter how off the beaten track you go, you will find elegance, ambience and top quality service, ranging from private homesteads and luxury tented camps to the larger game lodges and more moderately priced hotels.

Small Group Tours

Bench Africa offers small locally escorted group tours in Africa, from weekly departures in East Africa, with a maximum of seven passengers, to those wanting to join a select group of only 12 guests in Southern Africa. Travelling with a dedicated professional, discover some of our favourite places and stay at exclusive properties in comfort and style. Rest assured you will be taken care of from the very moment you arrive until you depart with some truly memorable experiences.

Flying Safaris

Travel to Africa on a journey that is as exceptional as the destination. In Kenya, experience a unique combination of adventure, relaxation, service and culinary delights amid the African wilderness, on safari in our luxury Cessna Caravan taking you to some of Kenya’s best National Parks and Reserves. With air-conditioning, personal intercom system and qualified safari guide onboard, this offers something very different to any other air safari in Africa.

Hiring a car in either South Africa or Namibia is much easier than you would expect. With a range of vehicles available and the ease of driving on the left, self-driving between areas gives guests the flexibility to move at their ideal pace and stop for sightseeing detours whenever desired. Tailoring an itinerary, a self-drive journey will allow you to make the absolute most of your holiday at an affordable price.

Rail Journeys

Southern Africa is blessed by the legacy of comprehensive rail tracks left by former colonists, with a large network covering South Africa but also stretching into neighbouring countries and as far north as Tanzania in East Africa. Highlights include the Rovos Rail, referred to as ‘The Most Luxurious Train in the World’, and the South African travel icon, The Blue Train. With journeys from two to 15 days, why not consider incorporating a rail journey into your African experience.

Africa is one of the most romantic continents in the world for honeymoons! Whether you want to find privacy in the African bush under mosquito nets, in a secluded tree top hideaway, be treated like royalty with private dinners on white sandy beaches lapping the Indian Ocean, or toast your life together with a glass of Champagne at the world renowned Victoria Falls, we can arrange it all, and leave you with memories never to be forgotten.

Family Holidays

The popularity of family safaris to Africa is booming with parents and grandparents wanting their families to experience a fun-filled holiday with the added educational aspect of the animals, bush environment and African culture. In South Africa there are several malaria-free areas that add to the attraction of taking young children on safari without worrying about medication. Many of the lodges and camps throughout East and Southern Africa now welcome and cater for families.

Your Own Group Tour

If you’d like to explore destinations with your family or a group of friends, Africa won’t disappoint. There are a number of wonderful locations in Africa perfect for group travel. Bench Africa specialises in arranging various types of packages for group travellers and can craft a travel plan that’s ideal for your ‘herd’. You can choose from different types of travel itineraries, escorted or independent, photographic or special interest.

Indian Ocean Island Holidays

Like many of Bench Africa's guests, you're bound to come back more than once to experience it all!

This brochure covers the regions and holiday types listed below. Click on the links to see more free travel brochures covering the regions and holiday types you are interested in.

• Africa Adventure
• Africa Adventure Tours
• Africa Family
• Africa for Seniors
• Africa Group Tours
• Africa Independent
• DESTINATIONS
• Family Adventure
• Mature Travellers Over 50s
• South Africa
• Southern Africa
• SPECIAL INTEREST

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Inspiration for Australian Travellers

Bench Africa

Bench Africa was established in 1969 by Charles Bench.

Bench’s passion for Africa and safaris in particular saw his business flourish.

Well-crafted itineraries highlighting exotic locations throughout the continent were extended to include the Middle East and Indian Ocean also.

• Beach retreats
• Rail journeys
• Cultural and historical tours
• Best of Zimbabwe (9 days)
• Historical Jordan (8 days)
• Cape to Kruger Overland Safari (26 days)
• Ultimate Egypt (12 days)
• African Horseback Safari Botswana (6 days)
• Unique itineraries
• Bench Exclusive collection
• Knowledgeable staff and guides
• Eco friendly and socially responsible
• Over 45-years’ experience

• Who are the Volga Germans?
• Settlements along the Volga

Mapping information provided by Sandy Payne germansfromrussiasettlementlocations.org

Saratov was home to both a Lutheran parish and a Roman Catholic parish which served the ethnic Germans living in this city.

CONGREGATIONS

St. Clement Catholic Church

St. John Lutheran Church

St. Mary Lutheran Church

The Lutheran parish in Saratov was officially organized in 1793, although Pastor Ahlbaum was active in the city before then.

The Pope established the Diocese of Tiraspol, headquartered in Saratov on 3 July 1848. During its existence, there were five bishops:

Ferdinand Helanus Kahn (1850-1864) Franz Xavier Zottmann  (1872-1888) Anton Johann Zerr  (1889-1902) Eduard von der Ropp (1902-1903) Joseph Aloysius Kessler  (1904-1930)

This diocese went inactive in 1930 with the resignation of Bishop Kessler and officially vacant in 1933 when he died. It was formally "surpressed" in 2002 when the new Diocese of St. Clement in Saratov was established.

The Catholic parishners of Saratov built a wooden church which was consecrated in 1805. This building was used until 1880 when a new brick building was erected. The architect was M. N. Grudistova, and the new building was consecrated to St. Clement (St. Klemens in German) when it was completed in 1881. Today the structure serves as a movie theatre called "Pioneer."

In the post-Soviet era, the St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church was founded in 2001 in Saratov. It is part of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Ingria (ELCI). There is a chapel in Saratov, and the pastor serving there is Olav Panchu.

There were three frontier garrisons founded to protect merchant ships traveling on the Volga River: Saratov (1584), Samara (1586), and Tsaritsyn (1589). Over the next century, the settlements were rebuilt on first one side of the Volga and then the other following a series of natural disasters.  The 1670 peasant revolt led by Stepan Razin also thwarted development of these cities.

Saratov was the first point of arrival for the German colonists and the location of the Kontora (Office of Immigrant Oversite) following the establishment of the colonies in the 1760's. From its beginning as a provincial outpost, Saratov grew to become a prosperous city and served as the center of industry for the Volga German colonists.

Catholic and Lutheran

Maps of Saratov and Saratov Province

Schnurr, Joseph.  Die Kirchen und das Religiöse Leben der Russlanddeutschen  - Evangelischer Teil (Stuttgart: Landsmannschaft der Deutschen aus Russland, 1972): 194.

Saratov  (Wikipedia)

Roman Catholic Diocese of Tiraspol (Wikipedia)

Map of Saratov Province (1823) (World Digital Library)

Historic Saratov photos and maps  (Russian site)

Description of the city of Saratov and Saratov Province  ( Encyclopædia Britannica )

Geographic card depicting key features of Saratov Province (1856)  (World Digital Library)