Golden Africa is owned and operated by husband and wife, Rob Barber and Charlotte Bennett-Diver. However, none of it would be possible without the dedication and hard-work from our fantastic team, pictured above.
We all have a deep-routed passion for Botswana and want to share the beauty and wonder of one of Africa’s most incredible countries with those that yearn to explore. Guests’ interests are considered extensively when planning a safari, and combined with our experience of over 15 years, love for the wilderness and wildlife, and intricate planning, we are confident we will deliver an unforgettable safari.
Rob Barber
Tel: +267 7269 1551
Email: rob@golden-africa.com
Rob was born in the southern highlands of Tanzania and was introduced to the bush at a young age. His first stomping grounds were in Ruaha National Park, Tanzania, where the family would regularly go camping. After finishing school, Rob went on to work in Ruaha guiding for a season at a lodge with family friends. This is where he knew that a life of guiding and working in the bush was unquestionably the one for him.
Rob left Ruaha to study in Bristol, UK and graduated with a BA (Hons) but the bush was always calling. Before leaving the UK for good and returning to his roots, Rob was elected as a Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society (FRGS). He came to Botswana and was immediately taken by the incredible wilderness and diversity of the country and soon realised that this was to be his new home.
He went on to start up Golden Africa, and today, as Director of the company and a fully licensed professional guide of Botswana, he continues to work throughout the country, in the Okavango, Chobe and Kalahari, designing, planning and leading safaris for many clients who keep coming back for more.
Charlotte Bennett-Diver
Tel: +267 7741 8088
Email: charlotte@golden-africa.com
Charlotte was born in England and grew up in Surrey where her interest and passion for wildlife and nature began at a very early age. During her early years, Charlotte took as many opportunities as possible to gain experience working with animals, including at several farms in Kent and at the RSPCA (Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals). Although initially wanting to pursue a career working with wildlife, Charlotte decided to follow in her parents’ footsteps by joining the British Civil Service.
After a successful eight year career working for various different Government departments, she took a six month career break to fulfill her dream of exploring Africa and of being closer to her passion, wildlife. During those six months Charlotte gained first-hand experience of the safari industry and of Botswana, and loved every minute of it. When the opportunity arose to join Rob as a director of Golden Africa, Charlotte did not hesitate in accepting it.
Charlotte moved permanently to Botswana in 2013 and has not looked backed since.
Charlotte is also a keen photographer and has taken many of the photos used for Golden Africa’s marketing and social media forums.
Rob has guided us on 7 safaris over the past nine years; I would not hesitate to recommend Rob and Golden Africa to anyone, but in particular those who appreciate a high level of personalized service, and who are looking for a truly unique, customized experience.
Kate Booker
August 2018