need a recommendation for a tour operator in South Africa that handles private, custom tours.

Where do you live?

Craig Beal - owner - Travel Beyond

San Antonio, Texas
so I can just search for Travel Beyond and find it?
Thanks for the help

Rather obvious, isn't it? You might also try Ntaba Tours in Kentucky that's run by a South African couple, Robin and Stella Mountain. I'm traveling with Robin in October.

A highly recommended agent in Cape Town and one that has been mentioned here many, many times is LIESL MATTHEWS with
Southern Destinations

E: [email protected]
W: www.southerndestinations.com
You can even call toll free from the US

USA 1-800-961-4587

Liesl is thorough, fast in communication, dependabe and knowlegable

Sorry for the confusion - Fodor's strictly forbids soliciting. I wanted to find out where you lived in case I knew a nearby company you could meet face-to-face. I don't know any agents in San Antonio that specilize in safaris but you could try Fish Eagle Safaris in Houston. Bert DuPlessis owns the company and he is very reputable. Also in Houston is http://kerdowney.com/. They have been around for a long time. I hope this helps. Ker Downey has nothing to do with the safari lodge chain in Botswana. Bot Bert and Ker Downey specialize in custom private safaris.

Craig Beal - owner - Travel Beyond

Thompsons is big and in Durban. My local TA has used them to handle in country SA arrangements for me.
http://www.thompsons.co.za/

regards - tom

For me, the best local (that is: South African) TA is Sun Safaris.

Known for putting the focus on camps with a lower eco foot print and camps that are budget-friendly. Without compromising quality of sightings, guiding and comfort, that is.

Cheers,

J.

Sun Safaris is an excellent outfitter. I have traveled to Namibia with the owner, Brett Thompson, and he is a friend of mine. You will be in VERY GOOD hands with them!

Craig Beal - owner - Travel Beyond