Each of our specialists covers a few areas of our programme and all have been recruited for their passion and detailed knowledge of the region. They have all travelled extensively in this area so whoever plans your trip you can be sure that you will experience the very best of the country. Click on their profiles to read more about their background and travel experience.
Melissa is a South African, and worked for an airline after graduating, which gave the perfect opportunity to travel. Mel has worked for Audley for several years and during that time has returned to Africa many times for work and pleasure. She has travelled all over Tanzania from the Serengeti in the north to the Selous in the south, as well as island hopping around the Mafia and Zanzibar Archipelagos. Once Mel had travelled all over Tanzania she started exploring Kenya which she now knows inside out. She has also spent several weeks on the Seychelles diving and snorkelling. Mel's most recent trip was to Mozambique where she spent time in the Niassa Reserve as well as the Quirimba and Bazaruto Archipelagos. Mel is passionate about wildlife and enjoys snorkelling, diving and fabulous beaches.
Russell started a career in travel ten years ago with a leading high street operator and travelled all over the world from the Caribbean Islands to Bali. Russell then travelled to Kenya which sparked a passion for the continent and he joined Audley to pursue this. Since joining Audley, Russell has travelled to Africa & the Indian Ocean many times. He has an in-depth knowledge of the Seychelles having island-hopped around both the granitic and coral islands. Highlights included snorkelling off Praslin and a turtle coming up to nest beside him whilst he sat on the beach! Russell has also travelled extensively in Kenya and Tanzania by all means of transport from light aircraft to camels. He crossed the Mara several times and slept in a star-bed on the Laikipia Plateau and walked in the Selous. During his free time Russell enjoys playing football and tennis.
Melissa Hillen
01993 838 516
Russell Pilkington
01993 838 516