Born and raised in South Africa, Jaco fell in love with the African bushveld from a very young age. Growing up, his family traveled extensively and spent time on safari each year. His admiration for the wild, stunning sunsets and beauty of South Africa grows deep in his roots. Although he now lives abroad, he returns to South Africa each year to spend time back home. 

Jaco’s travels and career have taken him to 40 countries worldwide, and he now resides in the beautiful Pacific Northwest of The United Sates. After graduating from The International Hotel and Tourism School in South Africa, Jaco moved to the United States to pursue his dream of becoming a chef. After graduating from the chef apprenticeship program, he worked for the Ritz Carlton Hotel Group for over ten years. 

His love for hotels, food and travel (especially in the Bush and Cape Town) made Africa Direct the ultimate match. Jaco loves creating the perfect itinerary for guests to truly celebrate his native South Africa, and takes time to understand exactly what his guests are seeking to explore. Every experience is tailor-made for each individual, and he believes South Africa never stops giving people exactly what they need. As a chef himself, he is a true ambassador for many restaurants and wine farms in the Cape.

His passion for hospitality and travel make him a well rounded expert, and he ensures his guests are taken care of from start to finish. Being based in the United States, Jaco can personalize magical safaris, relaxing weeks in wine country, action packed adventures in the Cape and everything in between.