Rick Reichsfeld

I was sixteen when I packed my bags and headed south along the West Coast of California, on an adventure that would change my life forever. That solo trip to Mexico would make me look a little further than the forests of Portland, Oregon. Since then I have traveled the world and made it my life goal to experience as many places as I possibly can.

Working in the travel industry has taught me how to travel efficiently, getting to the next destination in the quickest and most comfortable way. Since discovering Africa in 2005, I have been fortunate to travel to East Africa and Southern Africa a number of times, and on different airlines, and through a number of different international airports.

Rick Reichsfeld is the founder and owner of the global travel companies Alpine Adventures, Adventures Africa, and Anywhere Adventures. These specialty travel companies offer soft adventures ranging from snow sports trips in North America, Europe, Japan, and South America, witnessing firsthand the Big 5 of lion, rhino, buffalo, leopard, and elephant in southern and eastern Africa, group cultural and culinary trips in Asia and Europe, and adventures like whitewater rafting in Costa Rica, tango-learning intensives in Argentina, horseback expeditions through Patagonia, and any other life experience you can dream of.

Pete Kovacevic

Pete Kovacevic was born and raised in Yugoslavia, which is now a small landlocked country called Serbia. He studied to be an expert in geography, tourism, and hospitality. He earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Novi Sad. He has traveled extensively throughout Europe and has enjoyed learning about different countries, people, and cultures. After graduating from college Pete went in search of new opportunities and he moved to the United States. Raised in the spirit of US culture and thanks to his father’s influence, he adapted very quickly. He joined Alpine Adventures in 2006. He has actively participated in the growth and development of the company. He currently oversees international markets and coordinates international supplier relations, including negotiations for the best terms with industry partners. As the ‘go to’ person, much of Pete’s time is devoted to assisting Alpine’s agents in getting the best products and amenities for their clients. Pete loves the mountains and the outdoors. He is fascinated with the mountain world and the adventures it inspires. “I enjoy meeting new people, traveling, and immersing myself in new cultures. It’s great when you can make a living doing what you love. Skiing always means good times, good food, and a great adventure! The more I travel, the more I appreciate the diversity of our planet” Pete’s greatest love is for soccer, and he says this passion will last forever.

Gary Nicoll

Originally from Scotland, I moved to Connecticut in the US when I was 11 years old.  I first visited Africa in 2008 to climb Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania.  Although this was a large focus of the trip, the few days spent on safari to Tarangire, Ngorongoro, and the Serengeti following the climb immediately became a lifetime highlight and ensured that I would visit the continent again.  The combination of amazing scenery, game viewing, wonderful local hospitality, and endless adventure experiences make it a very special place.

I most recently returned from my last trip to South Africa & Zimbabwe, where I experienced the majesty of Victoria Falls; the thrill of whitewater rafting the Zambezi River; the excitement of Big Five game drives in the Greater Kruger Park area; the stunning beauty and culture of Cape Town; and the history of Johannesburg.  Africa always delivers on all fronts and ensures that you’ll start planning your next visit as soon as you return home.

I have been in the travel industry in various capacities for close to 30 years, much of that time spent selling adventure travel.  I have a love for travel and a thirst for experiencing new places, people, and cultures.  I look forward to helping you customize that dream trip to Africa and to experience all it has to offer firsthand.

Gary’s awards

Cassandra Davenport

Africa fills the senses in a very unique and special way. It is full of surprising vistas, wild animals and adventure at every turn. Your eyes and ears are on heightened alert in search of those large animals in their natural habitat during a game drive. There is something so exciting about being surrounded by untamed nature with the security of being with a trained guide. They are quick to share the knowledge of the land and its inhabitants. It isn’t scripted so every day in a game park brings a totally different experience.

What I found the most impressive was the overall hospitality. From the boutique 3 and 4 star hotels to the amazing 5 star resorts you will find gracious service, truly amazing food and wonderful wines. I think my favorite touch was the hot water bottles tucked under your covers to keep you warm at night. When you arrive at the 5 star Cape Grace Hotel in Cape Town they greet you with “Welcome Home!”

Beyond the game parks there is much more do and explore. I spent my time traveling along the Garden Coast of South Africa. I loved the different eco systems so close in proximity to each other. You have the mountains as a magnificent back drop while being close to the coast and the jungle setting in between. This area offers accommodations and activities for everyone and every budget. There are endless activities from hiking, to bungee jumping, visiting animal preserves to golfing and wine tasting.

The one thing I can guarantee is when you return from your first trip to Africa you will be consumed with planning the next one.