Raw
Africa
Safaris
SAFARIS THAT SUPPORT THE COMMUNITIES
AUTHENTIC | AWE-INSPIRING | ADVENTURE
In 1982, John received a Minolta Camera as a gift from an American client, igniting his fervour to capture the magnificence of African wildlife. During this period, he developed a profound affection for Africa’s wildlife while refining and honing his photography skills. John became deeply committed to wildlife conservation, striving to safeguard and protect their natural habitats.
John immigrated to Western Australia in 1998, where he became immersed in the mining industry. Unfortunately, no matter how beautiful Perth’s shores are, the distinctive smell of Africa and its diverse wildlife are never far from John’s thoughts. In 2014, he started travelling back to Africa more frequently to visit family, and it was during this time that he explored taking people on safari.
Raw Africa Safaris was born in 2015 to lead guests on unparalleled privately guided safaris, leaving them longing for more unforgettable adventures across Africa.
In 2018, John distinguished himself by completing the FAGASA guiding course in South Africa. This intensive program sharpened his bird identification expertise and refined his skills in tracking spoor, setting him apart as a knowledgeable and skilled guide.
Travellers can rest assured that John and his colleagues personally explore and experience every hotel, lodge, or camp before incorporating it into an itinerary, ensuring a quality experience.
“Everything in Africa bites,
but the Safari bug
is worst of all.”
-Brian Jackman.
John Pinheiro was born in Zimbabwe, the land of the iconic Victoria Falls, celebrated as one of the world’s seven natural wonders. Despite his Zimbabwean birthplace, his parents originate from Portugal, and he takes great pride in his Portuguese heritage and upbringing.
John moved to South Africa in his teens, fuelled by his passion for nature. His family owned a game reserve in Hluhluwe, KwaZulu-Natal. They engaged in game capture at the reserve, focusing on the Nyala. The animals were then sold to the Transvaal to introduce the species.
“To be close enough to gaze into the
eye of an elephant and see their soul
is an unforgettable experience.”
– Jacinta Bushby
Jacinta Bushby is a true-blue Aussie and John’s partner in life and adventures, who shares his passion for African wildlife. Jacinta not only helps coordinate trips to Africa, but she also encourages and motivates John to live out his dream of sharing his love for wildlife and photography. Having journeyed to South Africa and Kenya, she continues to be captivated by the awe-inspiring encounters with untamed wilderness and the rich cultural immersion that has left an imprint in her mind and soul. When Jacinta is not being whisked to Africa or supporting Raw Africa Safari adventures, she studies part-time at university and works full-time in a learning and development role.
Mission
Our mission is to provide a transformative experience by inviting individuals to explore Africa through safe, guided tours that leave an undeniable imprint. Through our curated safaris, we aspire to foster meaningful connections to support local communities while promoting sustainable tourism.
Vision
At Raw Africa Safaris, our vision is to make Africa’s beauty more accessible to all, fostering experiences that blend education with the art of wildlife photography. We aim to provide opportunities for individuals to immerse themselves in Africa’s natural splendour, capturing its essence through a camera lens while promoting conservation.
“One cannot resist
the lure of Africa.”
-Rudyard Kipling