A Woman-Owned Safari Company Crafting Meaningful African Experiences
Manya Africa Tours
In the heart of East Africa, where rolling beautiful landscapes meet wild adventures and vibrant cultures, there is a tour company that goes beyond ordinary travel. Manya Africa Tours is a woman-owned safari company, led by Yvonne Hilgendorf, a visionary, a mother, and a passionate advocate for sustainable tourism.
A Woman and Mother with a Vision
Yvonne’s journey is as inspiring as the experiences she curates. She is qualified in Tourism Geography, Economics, and Psychology from the University of Trier in Germany. Her extensive fieldwork in Uganda, spanning Ruboni in the Ruwenzori Mountains, Bigodi Wetlands in Kibale National Park, and Bushara Island in Lake Bunyonyi, provided valuable insights that led to the publication of her book, Community-based Tourism as a Form of Sustainable Tourism in Uganda, in Germany.
With over 16 years in Uganda’s tourism industry, Yvonne has held senior roles in hotels and tour companies, gaining the knowledge and expertise that now fuel Manya Africa Tours. As a mother, she brings care, patience, and attention to detail into every trip she plans, ensuring that every guest feels safe, seen, and valued.
She is a Founder member and an Executive Board member of the Exclusive Sustainable Tour Operators Association (ESTOA), promoting responsible tourism that protects biodiversity and uplifts local communities.
Journeys That Leave a Lasting Impression
Manya Africa Tours specializes in customized safaris and cultural experiences across Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya, and Tanzania. Whether it’s gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, game drives in the Serengeti, or immersing in local communities, every trip is carefully crafted with heart. Even the smallest wishes are anticipated and fulfilled.
Clients often leave transformed:
“We spent 7 days with Manya Africa Tours in July 2022. It was a great experience! The communication with Yvonne, planning and selection of the destinations was absolutely great. Our driver accompanied us well and safely. Even small extra wishes were fulfilled. I highly recommend Manya Tours!”
Wir waren im Juli 2022 7 Tage mit Manya Africa Tours unterwegs. Es war eine super Erfahrung! Die Kommunikation mit Yvonne, Planung und Auswahl der Ziele war absolut spitze. Unser Fahrer hat uns gut und sicher begleitet. Selbst kleine Extrawünsche wurden erfüllt. Ich kann Manya Tours uneingeschränkt empfehlen!
— Anke Helbrecht
Support a Woman, Empower Communities
Traveling with Manya Africa Tours is more than a vacation, it’s a chance to support a woman-owned safari company, a mother-led vision, and communities across East Africa. Your journey helps sustain local livelihoods, preserve natural habitats, and promote responsible tourism practices.
Begin Your Heartfelt African Adventure
Africa is calling with its stunning landscapes, wildlife, and vibrant cultures. And there is no better way to experience it than with Yvonne Hilgendorf, a woman and mother whose leadership, heart, and vision ensure every journey is unforgettable.