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About EarthLink Tours

Our Story

EarthLink Tours was created by environmental scientists as an extension of EarthLink Partners Ltd, an environmental charity registered in Australia. Both the charity and the tours developed through years of professional experience working on environmental projects, conservation initiatives, and international partnerships. During this work we had the opportunity to travel widely and to see first-hand the value of journeys as an educational tool and a means of promoting wildlife conservation. We saw the need to design tours with purpose and respect for local communities and landscapes.


In our conversations with colleagues and friends it became clear that many travellers are looking for something more than conventional tourism. They want experiences that provide a deeper understanding of a destination, access to knowledgeable local guides, and opportunities to see remarkable natural and cultural environments in a meaningful way and give back to communities and conservation initiatives. EarthLink Tours was established to meet this demand.


Our background in environmental science, project management and international collaboration has shaped the way we approach tour design. Each itinerary is carefully developed, drawing on trusted local partnerships and practical knowledge gained through field experience.


We are fortunate to have formed a trusted partnership with our in-country specialists who have over 20 years of experience as tour leaders across the southern African countries. There is literally not a road that has not been travelled by our Operations Team.


EarthLink Tours focuses on destinations where landscapes, wildlife and culture play a central role in the experience of travel. We work with reliable operators and locally based specialists who understand the region and share a commitment to high standards and responsible tourism practices.


Our approach is simple. We design journeys that are personal, well planned, and grounded in respect for the environment, giving back to wildlife conservation and the communities that make each destination unique. The aim is not only to travel, but to experience places in a way that is informed, inspirational and memorable.

Why Travel with Us

At EarthLink Tours we offer journeys built around a selection of carefully chosen destinations. Rather than fixed itineraries, we design each trip to suit your interests, preferred pace and travel style, drawing on our knowledge and experience of the regions we know well. We work with reputable lodges and trusted local partners who provide high standards of service and deep knowledge of the regions we visit. This allows us to offer bespoke experiences that go beyond standard tour packages.


Our team combines professional expertise and on-the-ground experience to create meaningful journeys. We focus on authentic encounters with landscapes, wildlife, and cultures, while ensuring comfort and reliability throughout the trip. Importantly, our tours are developed with a strong conservation focus. We prioritise operators and locations that support wildlife conservation, local communities, and responsible tourism. The result is a carefully curated travel experience that is personal, well organised, and grounded in respect for the places we explore.

OUR TEAM

Merrilyn Barnes - Director

Elizabeth Lopez - Project Manager

Merrilyn has a Bachelor of Applied Science in Conservation and Park Management from the University of South Australia. Her background spans NGOs, natural resource management, mining, and her own environmental consultancy, and she has travelled, lived, and worked in Africa for many years.


Merrilyn’s vision for EarthLink Tours was to connect tourist experiences with actual conservation projects. She is passionate about providing experiences that are immersive and not just ticking a box. Her own experiences of travel in Africa provide a unique insight when designing tours.  

Elizabeth Lopez - Project Manager

Elizabeth Lopez - Project Manager

Elizabeth holds a Master of Environment and Sustainability from Monash University. She is the Co-Founder of EarthLink Partners Ltd and shared Merrilyn's vision from the beginning to create travel experiences that make a real contribution to conservation and education.

 

As an experienced traveller Elizabeth understands the importance of attention to detail for every step in your tour experience.  

Trymore and Shingi - Our In-Country Specialists

Trymore and Shingi - Our In-Country Specialists

EarthLink Tours operates with in-country specialists who support us and you every step of the way. There isn't a road that Trymore hasn’t travelled in all southern African countries with over 18 years' experience as a qualified guide and tour leader.   

No request is too big or too small for Shingi to handle. She has an Honours Degree in Tourism from the University of Zimbabwe and the on-ground knowledge and contacts to respond to all travel requests and make sure your tour is delivered perfectly.

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