We’re Nickson and Franziska — adventure lovers with a passion for the environment, social justice and sustainability.
Nickson, born and raised in Arusha, is the visionary behind NYKA. He holds a degree in both sustainable development and climate change management and has years of experience working in non-profits like the Jane Goodall Institute. Since 2020 he has been working in the travel sector in Tanzania as expedition leader.
Franziska first fell in love with Tanzania over ten years ago, and it quickly became her second home. In 2020, Franziska and Nickson first met while working at the Jane Goodall Institute in Arusha. It was during this time that the idea of organizing meaningful travel experiences together began to take shape.
Combining our experience and our passion and values, we are dedicated to create lasting change in the travel industry in Tanzania and positive impact for the communities. We’re on a mission to make travel meaningful, fair, and unforgettable — putting people and positive change at the center of every adventure.
We stay at eco-friendly lodges and guesthouses run by local owners. We support women’s cooperatives and small businesses that focus on community empowerment and conservation. Your trip directly contributes to lasting positive impact in Tanzania, as all revenues remain in Tanzania.
Our guides are experienced locals with training in wildlife and ecosystems. We pay our guides above-average salaries, and tips are already included in your trip price. Many companies don’t pay guides at all, leaving them to rely only on tips — or even make them cover their own accommodation, which can take half their daily income. At NYKA Africa, we always provide fair pay, accommodation, and meals. This way, our guides are safe, well-rested, and fully focused on your journey.
We design your trip to match your needs, budget and preferences, offering honest pricing with no hidden costs. We adjust plans on the go to keep things smooth and stress-free. You’ll get our NYKA travel prep guide from us: what to pack, which medicines you might need, travel tips, and everything else to make your journey smooth. And if you need anything, we’re here for you 24/7 during your trip.
Our safari vehicles are well maintained, regularly checked, and built for comfort and safety. We partner with Flying Doctors so you can be evacuated from remote areas and get fast medical care if needed.
Our approach brings the depth and authenticity that conventional tourism lacks, offering immersive experiences with uncompromised quality and safety.
Above all, it’s a tourism that benefits the right people.
We stay at eco-friendly lodges and guesthouses with sustainable practices. We support women’s cooperatives and local businesses committed to community empowerment and conservation. Your trip helps create real, lasting impact on the ground.
Our guides are experienced locals with training in wildlife and ecosystems. We pay our guides above-average salaries, and tips are already included in your trip price. Many companies don’t pay guides at all, leaving them to rely only on tips — or even make them cover their own accommodation, which can take half their daily income. At NYKA Africa, we always provide fair pay, accommodation, and meals. This way, our guides are safe, well-rested, and fully focused on your journey.
We deeply respect the wisdom, traditions, and knowledge of indigenous communities in Tanzania, recognizing them as stewards of the land. We are grateful to have partnerships with indigenous communities who choose to welcome our travelers, creating invaluable enriching and educational experiences.
