London-based tour operator Niarra Travel, which offers luxury safaris and private adventures to countries in southern and East Africa, has appointed Lindsey Walter as Managing Director, effective immediately.

Walter has been serving as Acting Managing Director since October 2023, guiding the company through a crucial phase in its development.

As a co-founder of Niarra, Walter has played a pivotal role in shaping the business since its inception during the COVID-19 pandemic.

With over 20 years of experience in tourism and hospitality, Walter has spent 14 years with Oppenheimer Generations where she managed global hospitality sales and marketing for the conservation project, Tswalu Kalahari in South Africa, before moving into a role with its parent company Nianova Advisors as Head of Commercial Development. It was in that capacity that Walter co-developed both Niarra Travel and Weeva Limited.

Niarra Travel's business model focuses on transparent and equitable contracting with product partners, ensuring a larger share of profits stays in the destination.

Niarra Travel aims to inspire other tour operators by demonstrating that tourism can be both transformative and responsible when purpose and profit are balanced.

Arnold Meyer, CEO of Nianova Advisors and Chairman of Niarra Travel, said: “Lindsey’s extensive experience and innovative approach, combined with her strong business relationships, position her as a forward-thinking leader. We are confident she will continue to drive Niarra as a disruptive force in the tourism industry, delivering exceptional, life-changing experiences for guests.”