Kirsty Richardson

Kirsty Richardson

Africa Travel Specialist - Team Leader

A lifelong fascination with Africa began early for me, fuelled by countless hours spent immersed in David Attenborough documentaries and the vivid adventures of Wilbur Smith novels. That early inspiration led me to a career in travel in the 1990s, and for over 20 years now, I’ve specialised in crafting unforgettable journeys across the African continent.

My first safari remains etched in my memory – an exhilarating introduction to the magic of Africa. The sheer sensory impact of being surrounded by vast wilderness, encountering wildlife roaming freely, and drifting off to sleep under canvas to the rhythmic sounds of the bush was unforgettable.

Over the years, I’ve been fortunate to experience many incredible moments: summiting Mount Kilimanjaro – a lifelong dream realised; floating serenely above the Masai Mara in a hot air balloon; flying the iconic ‘Flight of Angels’ by helicopter over Victoria Falls; and even once being delayed for dinner in Chobe, Botswana – thanks to a large herd of elephants blocking the lodge gate!

When I’m not exploring Africa, I divide my time in the UK between my two passions. I volunteer at a local rewilding estate, working with the White Stork Project to help reintroduce these majestic birds after a 600-year absence. I’m also a licensed hot air balloon pilot and love flying over the South Downs whenever the weather allows.

It’s a joy to share my love for Africa and all the remarkable experiences it offers. I look forward to helping you plan a journey that’s as special and unique as the continent itself.

The Rainbow Team

Candice Buchan

Candice Buchan

Head of Rainbow
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Derek Schuurman

Derek Schuurman

Madagascar and Alternative Africa Product Manager
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Jack Brooker

Jack Brooker

Latin America Product Manager
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Kirsty Richardson

Kirsty Richardson

Africa Travel Specialist - Team Leader
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Craig Kaufman

Craig Kaufman

Africa Travel Specialist
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Helen Kennedy

Helen Kennedy

Africa Travel Specialist
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Kate Anderson

Kate Anderson

Africa Travel Specialist
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Louise Dean

Louise Dean

Africa Travel Specialist
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Nikki Lynas

Nikki Lynas

Africa Travel Specialist
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Debbie Stewart

Debbie Stewart

Latin America Travel Specialist
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Jake Aley

Jake Aley

Latin America Travel Specialist
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Kerry Cook

Kerry Cook

Latin America Travel Specialist
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Kristen Lanskail-Morris

Kristen Lanskail-Morris

Latin America Travel Specialist
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Sarah Frankish

Sarah Frankish

Latin America Travel Specialist
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Guided by our shared values, our Executive Leaders drive our business to being the best it can be.

Get to know our Executive team here and find out more about their experience, background and personal passions.

Why Choose Us?

Passionate travel experts

  • We've been leading wildlife travel since our first South Africa tours over 25 years ago
  • Our Travel Specialists have lived in their specialist area for years
  • We work with local guides to immerse you deeper in our diverse range of experiences

Personal & tailor-made

  • You'll speak to your own expert who'll share their first-hand knowledge
  • We'll make your itinerary seamless with 24/7 emergency contact available
  • Your Travel Specialist will listen to ensure you have the best chance of seeing the wildlife you love

Responsible by nature

  • We take care to actively contribute to the conservation of environments we visit
  • For select countries, we make a charitable donation on your behalf when you make your booking
  • We've partnered with conservation experts and NGOs to curate responsible tours
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Trust Pilot LATA Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office

For the latest travel advice from the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office check www.gov.uk/travelaware

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