Meet Elliot
Africa Specialist
Growing up in the UK with foreign-born grandparents, Elliot's wanderlust for exotic lands beyond Britain's shores developed from an early age. Elliot's love for travel grew further during the roughly three years he spent in his late teens and early twenties living, travelling and working across Australia, New Zealand, Latin America and Europe.
The endlessly changing landscapes, diverse wildlife, exciting activities and eccentric characters Elliot encountered had him hooked from day one. Fast forward a couple of decades and around 60 countries, and little has changed. Though now, with less free time, Elliot looks for efficient, high-quality travel programmes that make the absolute most of every destination. The campsites and hostels may have been replaced with more luxurious offerings, but the thirst for adventure has never waned.
Shortly after joining the travel industry in 2013, Elliot had his first taste of Africa with an unforgettable safari in Tanzania. The raw, untamed wilderness and unique beauty completely captivated him. Elliot has since explored a dozen African countries in depth, primarily across Southern and East Africa. He also proposed to his wife in Botswana and honeymooned in Uganda. Despite all this, Elliot still feels like he's only just getting started.
testimonials what elliot's clients say
"We booked a family trip with Elliot to Cape Town and the Garden Route. We were really impressed with the expertise and organisation. Elliot was responsive and planned the right choices for us. The support he set up for us whilst we were in S.A was excellent too."
RL
"We have booked a holiday of a lifetime, a trip to South Africa with help from Elliot of Tailored Journeys.
He was extremely patient when we were looking at the many options. Lots of guidance and great ideas from someone who has spent a good deal of time in the country.
I have no hesitation recommending Elliot and Tailored Journeys."
GC
"Elliot at Tailored Journeys arranged our honeymoon to Southern Africa at quite short notice. He met with us by video call to understand what we were looking for. We were impressed by his detailed on-the-ground knowledge of the various destinations we wanted to visit. Our trip which was very much a five star experience, exceeding our expectations in many respects.
AH
"My wife and I can without question recommend Elliot Hawthorn, Head of Africa for Tailored Journeys for his advice and guidance, as we created a safari experience in South Africa for 2026. Such was the relationship built, we also booked a further safari for 2027 to Botswana. We have no hesitation in recommending Tailored Journeys and will be exploring future holidays"
AW
What destination is at the top of your bucket list?
Madagascar: a unique ecosystem and still an unspoilt destination. Much of the flora and fauna can be found no where else on Earth, and along the coast there are stunning beaches and superb coral reefs with some of the best snorkelling and diving on the planet.
What’s the best party you have been to while travelling?
My engagement party in the Okavango Delta. After I’d proposed, an impromptu party sprang up in our tiny campsite. With just a small speaker for music, head torches for lighting and a patch of sand for the dancefloor, we danced the night away!
If you had just 24 hours in a big city, which one would it be?
Cape Town. There’s just so much to do. I’d start by abseiling down Table Mountain, then I’d explore the museums and cultural heart of the city and finish the day with one of the many amazing culinary experiences to be had there.
Which passport stamp are you the most proud of?
Colombia, from the early 2000s.
read elliot's blog posts
How to Pack for a Safari
Mozambique’s Bazaruto Archipelago
Elliot's Journey Through Zambia
eSwatini – Small Country with a Big Heart