About Us | Ask Mr. Africa

Our Legacy

Founded on the principles of service, integrity and experience, Ask Mr. Africa, an affiliate to Southern African Safaris was established in 2016 as Perth’s independent specialist in travel to Southern and East Africa.

Drawing on decades of personal exploration of the continent and strong relationships with trusted operators on the ground, we design authentic, carefully tailored journeys that prioritise seamless organisation and genuine value.

Meet the Experts

Simon Atherton

Vicki Gordon

Founding Director

Contact +61 412 409 320

Sales / Business Development Manager

Contact +61 411 705 950

Founder of Southern African Safaris in 2016 along with Ask Mr. Africa & NVUS Africa,

A Perth born travel specialist with tailor-made safaris across Southern and East Africa.

With more than 30 visits over 14 years of personal travel experience to the Africa continent . Simon brings deep destination knowledge and firsthand insight into every proposal he creates. Before SAS he was an international travel consultant this last 25 years with the likes of Flight Centre Limited Plaza Arcade and Holidayplanet Perth.

" I first travelled to Africa in 1978 and have since returned regularly exploring a wide range of game reserves, lodges, and remote destinations. My extensive on-the-ground experience, combined with long standing personal relationships with trusted local operators and ground teams, ensures each journey is authentic, well-organised, and carefully tailored to the individual traveller.

I maintain close links with the industry through regular attendance at leading African tourism events, including WTM Cape Town, INDABA, Magical Kenya and Africa's Eden.

This ongoing engagement keeps me informed of the latest products, lodges, and experiences available for his clients including re-visiting preferred lodges to ensure they meet the standards I was first appealed with.

My approach is transparent and very client-focused, with advice provided directly and without unnecessary third-party mark-ups. Whether planning a luxury safari, a family holiday or a once-in-a-lifetime adventure and I am dedicated to delivering exceptional African travel experiences along with the best of price.

Today, I enjoy prospecting during the winter season in the Eastern Goldfields.During Covid I didn't know when I was going to get out bush again so I commenced teaching people to seek the "BIG 5 of Geology with Prospector Park Gold Safaris."

" With over 40 years’ experience in the travel industry, I have built a deep understanding of the sector through extensive work with leading wholesalers and, for the past decade, with South African Airways. During the COVID period, I expanded my expertise by completing two internationally recognised wine certifications and working with a wine distribution company. Returning to South African Airways in February 2024 was a particularly meaningful milestone, as South Africa remains my favourite destination in the world.

Southern Africa continues to captivate me. From unforgettable safaris and remarkable wildlife encounters to the natural beauty of Cape Town and its world-renowned winelands, the region offers experiences that linger long after travellers return home. My connection to Southern Africa is also deeply personal. Recently, my eldest daughter became engaged while staying at Lukimbi Safari Lodge in Kruger National Park. She and her fiancé described it as the best holiday they have ever taken, with their only regret being that they had not discovered the magic of the region sooner.

I am passionate about sharing authentic African experiences and helping travellers create their own lasting memories. Once you visit Southern Africa, it has a way of getting into your blood and most people find themselves planning their return before they have even left.

Outside of work, I am a keen supporter of Australian Rules football and a loyal follower of the West Coast Eagles. I maintain an active lifestyle, running 5–8 km most mornings. In 2023 I completed the 21 km HBF Fun Run with my daughter, and in 2026 I took part in the Zanzibar Beach Run 10 km event combining my love of travel and fitness in a single memorable experience.

Family remains central to my life. I am fortunate to have three wonderful adult children and two beautiful grandsons. When I am not watching football or exploring the destinations that make Southern Africa so compelling, I enjoy cooking and entertaining "

There’s more to Africa than simply booking a hotel in Victoria Falls or a camp in the Maasai Mara. The real value lies in the logistics, safety, and seamless organisation that get you from A to B and back again — with zero complications and a lifetime of memories.

At Southern African Safaris we book your land arrangements directly through a trusted Destination Management Company (DMC) in Cape Town. This approach cuts out corporate middle-man fees, commissions, and the currency mark-ups commonly applied by many travel agents and third-party websites. Wherever possible, we charge in the product’s local currency at near parity, with no additional fees or charges (credit card fees excluded).

What should you do next?

Browse the website, note the experiences that interest you, and complete the enquiry form, or
Email Simon or Vicki with your requests to info@askmrafrica.com.au

If the property or tour you’re looking for isn’t listed on the website, simply let us know — we will source it on your behalf.

A telephone call is also a great way to start (Australia/NZ only). We also PRICEBEAT outsourced itineraries.

If you’re not sure where to begin, send Simon or Vicki an email, give him us a call,.Otherwise please complete the enquiry form with your thoughts, preferences, budget, and travel style. We will then create a tailored package designed around your requirements however, will will require a chat or appointment with you to discuss wants and needs.