Although too expansive to explain in one definition, the word "ubuntu" is easy to understand once you have visited and experienced Africa and her people.

The most common direct meaning given to the word is, "I am because of you," and this is found in the spirit of the African people, who understand how important community, family, friendship, and sharing are.

By realising that every action we have affects and influences the lives of others, and in return our lives are equally affected, we can learn to appreciate the community spirit and family bonds which exist within African tribes.

We at African Ubuntu Safaris work hard to portray the behaviour of ubuntu in dealing with clients and suppliers alike.  We aim to share our experience and expertise honestly with clients, with the sole purpose of ensuring each and every traveller is provided with the best possible holiday, fitting both their budgets and their dreams.

We appreciate that this will in turn result in repeat bookings, referral business, friendships,  success for African tourism operators, employment for local Africans, support for African charities and communities, an opportunity for people to share cultures and ideas, lasting memories and economic benefits to Africa.

Archbishop Desmond Tutu explains ubuntu thus:

"One of the sayings in our country is Ubuntu – the essence of  being  human.   Ubuntu speaks particularly about the fact that you can't exist as  a human being in isolation.   It speaks about our interconnectedness.  You  can't be human all by yourself, and when you have this quality – Ubuntu  – you are known for your generosity.  We think of ourselves far too frequently as just individuals, separated from one another, whereas you are connected and what you do affects the whole world.  When you do well,  it spreads out; it is for the whole of humanity."

Nelson Mandela has been interviewed about ubuntu, and was filmed as below: