Language
Safari landscape
Jessica Tyrrell

Jessica Tyrrell

Travel Writer

I am an explorer at heart with a serious case of wanderlust and a passion for the great outdoors. My travels have taken me from the towering dunes of Namibia to the rushing waters of the Zambezi River. I live for the thrill of a safari and the quiet moments spent watching wildlife in their natural habitat. I am deeply committed to conservation and love finding ways to travel that give back to the planet. Whether I am sharing tips for your next South African adventure or scouting out the best spots for wildlife viewing, I keep things fun and focused on the animals. Let’s head into the wild and see what we can find.

Find me where the wild things are and the cell service isn't

28
Articles
8
Safaris
3
Countries

All articles

Guides, reviews, and destination deep-dives — written from the field.

Sustainable Traveller Series: How—and Why—to Save Water While Travelling
Conservation Effort · Guide

Sustainable Traveller Series: How—and Why—to Save Water While Travelling

Did you know tourists use 3 to 4 times more water than locals? Discover how to save water while travelling and protect our planet for future generations.

Viatu TeamViatu Team
Pack for a Purpose on Your Next Holiday to Botswana
Botswana · Community Project

Pack for a Purpose on Your Next Holiday to Botswana

Make a difference while exploring Botswana by participating in the Pack for a Purpose initiative. Discover how your donations can impact local communities.

Viatu TeamViatu Team
What Makes a Botswana Safari So Expensive
Botswana · Guide

What Makes a Botswana Safari So Expensive

Experience the allure of Botswana's exclusive safaris and discover why they come with a higher price tag. Learn what to expect and where to stay!

Viatu TeamViatu Team
The Top 7 Sustainable Activities in KwaZulu-Natal
List · South Africa

The Top 7 Sustainable Activities in KwaZulu-Natal

Explore KwaZulu-Natal's breathtaking landscapes through sustainable activities that benefit local communities and wildlife

Viatu TeamViatu Team
Top 7 Sustainable Stays in Botswana
Botswana · Eco-Lodge

Top 7 Sustainable Stays in Botswana

Experience Botswana's stunning wildlife while staying at eco-friendly lodges that support conservation. Discover the top sustainable stays making a difference!

Viatu TeamViatu Team
Explained: How We Calculate and Offset Our Travellers' Emissions
Review · Travel Tech

Explained: How We Calculate and Offset Our Travellers' Emissions

Curious about your travel's carbon impact? Discover how we calculate and offset our travellers' emissions to promote sustainable journeys. Learn more!

Viatu TeamViatu Team
Top 5 Sustainable Activities To Embrace on Your Travels
Conservation Effort · Guide

Top 5 Sustainable Activities To Embrace on Your Travels

Explore unforgettable experiences while minimizing your travel footprint. Discover the top 5 sustainable activities to embrace on your next adventure!

Viatu TeamViatu Team
12 Black-Owned Wineries and Wines in and Around Cape Town
City Life · List

12 Black-Owned Wineries and Wines in and Around Cape Town

Explore the vibrant world of Black-owned wineries in Cape Town, where history meets innovation. Discover unique wines and support local pioneers today!

Viatu TeamViatu Team
10 Books About Africa by Africans You Have To Read

10 Books About Africa by Africans You Have To Read

Discover the rich tapestry of Africa through the eyes of its own writers. Explore our top 10 must-read books by Africans that illuminate diverse stories.

Viatu TeamViatu Team
Our Top 5 Fair Trade in Tourism Programs to Support in South Africa

Our Top 5 Fair Trade in Tourism Programs to Support in South Africa

Experience the transformative power of travel by supporting Fair Trade in Tourism programs in South Africa. Discover how you can make a meaningful impact today!

Viatu TeamViatu Team
Jess’s Namibian Adventure: From Desert to Eden in 17 Days
Namibia · Trip

Jess’s Namibian Adventure: From Desert to Eden in 17 Days

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Namibia's stunning landscapes, wildlife, and hidden gems. Discover the highlights of our 17-day adventure!

Viatu TeamViatu Team
Viatu’s Responsible Traveller Pledge
Guide · Trip

Viatu’s Responsible Traveller Pledge

Travel can transform communities, but how you travel matters. Discover Viatu’s Responsible Traveller Pledge and learn to make a positive impact today.

Viatu TeamViatu Team
A Complete Guide to Namibia’s Zambezi Region
Guide · Namibia

A Complete Guide to Namibia’s Zambezi Region

Uncover the hidden paradise of Namibia's Zambezi Region, where lush landscapes and vibrant wildlife await. Discover your next adventure today!

Viatu TeamViatu Team
Jess Reviews: Zambezi Mubala Camp
Namibia · Review

Jess Reviews: Zambezi Mubala Camp

Experience the breathtaking diversity of landscapes at Zambezi Mubala Camp, where adventure meets tranquility. Discover why this hidden gem is a must-visit!

Viatu TeamViatu Team
Explained: The IPCC’s 6th Climate Assessment Report and Tourism

Explained: The IPCC’s 6th Climate Assessment Report and Tourism

Climate change is no longer a distant threat; it's here and affecting tourism. Discover why the IPCC's latest report demands urgent action from us all.

Viatu TeamViatu Team
Jess Reviews: Nkasa Lupala Tented Lodge
Eco-Lodge · Namibia

Jess Reviews: Nkasa Lupala Tented Lodge

Experience the serene beauty of Nkasa Lupala Tented Lodge, a hidden gem near Nkasa Rupara National Park. Discover why this remote escape is a must-visit!

Viatu TeamViatu Team
Sustainability at Viatu

Sustainability at Viatu

Travel can be a force for good, but how can we ensure it supports sustainability? Discover why responsible tourism matters and how Viatu is leading the way.

Viatu TeamViatu Team
Jess Reviews: Nambwa Tented Lodge
Namibia · Review

Jess Reviews: Nambwa Tented Lodge

Experience the wild beauty of Namibia at Nambwa Tented Lodge, where luxury meets sustainability

Viatu TeamViatu Team
Netflix & Change – August 2021
Review

Netflix & Change – August 2021

Discover how climate change impacts our planet through captivating documentaries and poetry this August. Learn more about these eye-opening stories!

Viatu TeamViatu Team
The Top Day and Multi-day Hiking Trails in Namibia
Hiking · List

The Top Day and Multi-day Hiking Trails in Namibia

Experience the thrill of hiking in Namibia! Discover stunning day and multi-day trails that promise breathtaking views and wildlife encounters. Learn more!

Viatu TeamViatu Team
Explained: Namibia's Conservation Success Stories
Community Project · Conservation Effort

Explained: Namibia's Conservation Success Stories

Discover how Namibia's innovative conservation methods empower local communities and protect wildlife, making it Africa's leading success story. Learn more!

Viatu TeamViatu Team
A Complete Guide to the Fish River Canyon
Guide · Hiking

A Complete Guide to the Fish River Canyon

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Namibia's Fish River Canyon, the world's second-largest canyon. Discover essential tips for your unforgettable adventure!

Viatu TeamViatu Team
Netflix & Change - July 2021 Edition
Beyond the Big 5 · List

Netflix & Change - July 2021 Edition

Discover the inspiring stories of the Akashinga anti-poaching rangers and innovative solutions to climate change in this month's Netflix & Change. Learn more!

Viatu TeamViatu Team
Explained: Sustainable Tourism

Explained: Sustainable Tourism

Traveling sustainably is more crucial than ever. Discover how to minimize your impact while exploring the world and supporting local communities. Learn how!

Viatu TeamViatu Team
A Complete Guide to Etosha National Parks’ Waterholes
Guide · Namibia

A Complete Guide to Etosha National Parks’ Waterholes

Experience the thrill of wildlife watching at Etosha National Park's waterholes, where animals gather in the dry season. Discover the top spots to visit!

Viatu TeamViatu Team
A Complete Guide to the Waterberg Plateau & its Hikes
Beyond the Big 5 · Guide

A Complete Guide to the Waterberg Plateau & its Hikes

Discover the breathtaking Waterberg Plateau, a hiker's paradise in Namibia, with stunning views, diverse wildlife, and unforgettable adventures. Learn more!

Viatu TeamViatu Team
The Complete Guide to Being a Sustainable Traveller
Conservation Effort · Guide

The Complete Guide to Being a Sustainable Traveller

Transform your travels into a force for good with our guide to sustainable travel. Discover tips to respect cultures and protect the planet. Learn how!

Viatu TeamViatu Team
Why it is advised to rent a 4x4/4WD in Namibia
Guide · Namibia

Why it is advised to rent a 4x4/4WD in Namibia

Exploring Namibia's vast landscapes is best done in a 4x4. Discover why renting one is essential for your adventure and learn how to navigate the wild terrain!

Viatu TeamViatu Team
Safari landscape
Plan with Jessica

Ready to start planning your African journey?

Every trip Jessica helps plan is tailored from the ground up — no generic itineraries, no wasted days.