About Us
Okavasai Tours & Travel is all about bridging the gap between traditional African hospitality and modern tourism. Our roots run deep—born from humble beginnings in Soweto’s Mndeni & Zola and Sobantu township in Pietermaritzburg, we grew up on the values of Ukupha (giving) and Ubuntu (humanity). That spirit of community and generosity shaped us into who we are today: a premier tourism company that’s eager to share the best of South Africa with the world
Our Story
It all started back in 2018, when we invited a group of friends from the USA to experience Heritage Month in South Africa. Their excitement—and the word-of-mouth buzz—sparked annual visits and inspired us to formalize what had been a passion project into a full-fledged business. Now, we’re proud to say Okavasai specializes in crafting immersive, culturally rich tours, tailored to different needs—whether it’s a faith-based trip, an educational exchange, or a good old-fashioned safari.
We’re big on partnerships, working closely with local communities, faith organizations, and even universities to create experiences that aren’t just about sightseeing—they’re about life-changing moments. When you travel with Okavasai, you’re not just booking a tour; you’re stepping into our extended family. We’ll introduce you to the heart and soul of South Africa, from the vibrant township streets to the breathtaking savannahs. After all, our mission is simple: offer an authentic, transformative journey that celebrates our country’s diversity while empowering local communities.
Whether you’re curious about exploring South Africa’s iconic landmarks or connecting with its lesser-known cultural gems, we’ve got your back. Come join us, and let’s discover a side of Africa that’s as welcoming as it is awe-inspiring—because at Okavasai, you’re not just a visitor, you’re part of the story.
Why Choose Okavasai for Your South African Adventures.
Led by Industry Veterans
Genuine Cultural Immersion
Tailor-Made & Hassle-Free
Community & Sustainability Focus
Meet the Team
Ms. Pam Thandi Parkinson
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Hi 👋 – please meet Thandi, commonly known as (Thandi Moya – Parkinson). Her travel career started during her employ by the giant Rennies Travel Group, where she worked as a Travel Consultant in one of its many Travel Agents across South Africa. Got promoted to be a Marketing Travel Consultant, to grow corporate clients & leisure clients and that birthed her exposure & love for Tourism & Hospitality Industry. She left Rennies Group to oversee National Roads Transport Safety in the country employed by the State. That further harnessed her love & appreciation for Tourism as she continued to interact with other National State Departments such as Tourism amongst others. Her love for Tourism & Hospitality grew from strength to strength. And continued to be involved in the Industry and met the likes of BST Tours & other Tour Operators within Tourism industry. This led her to establish her very own OKAVASAI Tours & Travel with a specific focus on USA communities of all type, to bring them to experience the memorable South African culture, authenticity, hospitality & natural beauty & its southern neighbouring countries such as Botswana, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Zambia, etc.
+27 82 893 0876 (SA)
+1 (561) 729-6067 (USA)
Ms. Tanya Brummer
CHIEF OPERATIONS
Hi 👋 – please meet Tanya. Tanya has been packaging Tours & Safaris for years. An expert coordinator of all types of Tour packages that suits your visit to South Africa & its surrounds. Her broad and vast knowledge, understanding of Tour packages & customer care within Tourism industry is unmatched. Her great relations with a vast of service providers and operators in the industry is second to none. Tanya is the heartbeat of OKAVASAI operations, one you can depend and rely on for your tour or visit needs. A seasoned & pleasant comminicator of note. Just the right person you need to listen to you & custom-package your tour experience.
+27 81 300 9331 (SA)
Mr. A.J Mthembu
CHAIRMAN
Hi 👋 – please meet AJ Mthembu. AJ is an ardent executive & leader with a vision. He lives up to his name which mean Be Happy, he is about business, ethics, happiness, happy experiences & embracing all visitors from all walks of life to South Africa. He comes from a presidential background within Public Transport industry and Agriculture industry. These are sectors of his passion. He interacted with all commuter types internally and those who visit our country & ferried tourists for years as well, across the landscapes of our country. Excellency in service delivery is his other name. His gift of combining Tourism and Agriculture resulting to Agri-Tourism is unfathomable. This leads OKAVASAI’s offerings to go beyond just offering great & impressionable tourism experiences for tourists but adds the element of Agri-Tourism to it. A rare blend which OKAVASAI prides itself in. He brings that foresight of having the best interest of tourists at heart as they land & arrive in South Africa, experiencing our destinations and blending in the agricultural goods & interest to it. You can trust OKAVASAI Tours & Travel with exploring our blend of Agri-Tourism.
+27 83 641 4888 (SA)
Chat To Us About Your Next Adventure!
