No products in the cart.
About Vakasha Africa
Vakasha (va.ka.sha) means “to visit” in the Zulu language
About Vakasha Africa
Vakasha (va.ga.sha) means “to visit” in the Zulu language
The Face Behind Vakasha
Andrew Torlage invites all nature lovers to join him for an unforgettable visit to his beloved homeland. There is nothing this explorer loves more than sharing some of his favorite places with new friends.
Andrew loved growing up in South Africa. His father was the historian for the provincial park system and Andrew and his brother would spend their childhood days exploring every wild inch of the park that surrounded their home.
So long as they obeyed the golden rule to be home before dark, the extensive grasslands dotted with acacia thorn trees and teeming with an abundance of creatures both large and small was their playground.
It was only in later life, when Andrew left to explore the rest of the world, that he was able to fully appreciate just what an amazing childhood he’d had and what a very special country he’d had the privilege of growing up in.
Andrew found a deeper appreciation for South Africa’s dramatic history, rich cultural heritage, and delectable food and wine. But what he has come to value most about South Africa is the country’s warm and wonderful people who are quick to welcome visitors with open arms and most of all, the truly magnificent wilderness and wildlife of his country and childhood.
Andrew now lives in Chapel Hill, North Carolina (USA). He is a FGASA certified field guide, with years of South African nature guiding experience and also holds a master’s degree in biology from Miami University.
There is nothing that Andrew enjoys more than a visit back to South Africa, especially if he’s able to share some of his favorite places with new friends. In 2023, Andrew established Vakasha Africa so that he could spend more time doing just that.
Vakasha (va.ga.sha) means “to visit” in the Zulu language and Andrew invites all nature lovers to join him for an unforgettable visit to his beloved homeland.
In addition to introducing new visitors to the wonders of South Africa, Vakasha is also proud to support local conservation and community development in the country by prioritizing state and national parks in their tours and employing local guides whenever possible.
If Andrew is not out in the field, you’ll probably find him checking his calendar to see when the next trip begins!