FREQUENTLY ASKED
QUESTIONS
FREQUENTLY ASKED
QUESTIONS
What will I experience on a Sourcing Africa expedition?
Each one of our expeditions is a curated, immersive journey created for interior designers, collectors, and creatives to discover exceptional artisans, materials, and workshops. These trips combine design sourcing, cultural exchange, and elevated travel, offering access that is rarely available independently.
Who are these trips for specifically? Do I have to be a designer?
Our expeditions are ideal for: • Interior designers and architects • Furniture, textile, and product designers • Collectors, stylists, and creative directors • Design-driven travelers seeking authentic, behind-the-scenes access But, no prior sourcing experience is required—only curiosity, respect, and a love of craftsmanship.
Which countries do you travel to?
Each itinerary is thoughtfully curated around artisanal regions, material heritage, and cultural significance. Our primary destinations include: • South Africa • Morocco • Egypt • Namibia (select journeys) • Botswana • Senegal • Seychelles • Kenya • Portugal • Japan • Argentina • Spain • France
What’s included in the expedition fee?
Typically included: • Luxury or character-driven accommodations • Ground transportation and internal travel • Private artisan visits and factory access • Curated cultural experiences and meals • On-site guidance, translation, and sourcing support • Design and export advisory throughout the trip Detailed inclusions are provided with each specific itinerary.
What’s not included?
• International airfare • Travel insurance (required) • Personal shopping, freight, or shipping costs • Optional excursions not listed in the itinerary
Can items be shipped back to the U.S. or Europe?
Yes, we assist with: • Vetting artisans and materials • Advising on export requirements • Coordinating crating, consolidation, and international freight Final shipping costs are separate and depend on volume, destination, and materials.
How large are the groups, typically?
We intentionally keep groups small and intimate—typically 8–12 participants—to ensure meaningful access, flexibility, and a respectful experience with artisans and communities.
Is it safe to travel on these expeditions?
Yes, safety is paramount. We work with trusted local partners, experienced drivers, vetted accommodations, and long-standing artisan relationships. Destinations and routes are carefully planned, and we provide pre-departure guidance for peace of mind.
Do I need special visas or vaccinations?
Visa and vaccination requirements vary by country and passport. We provide guidance well in advance, but participants are responsible for securing their own documentation.
How physically demanding are the trips?
Most days involve walking, standing, and travel between locations. We design itineraries with balance and comfort in mind, but participants should be comfortable with light to moderate physical activity.
How do I reserve my place?
A deposit is required to secure your place. Due to limited group sizes, spaces are confirmed on a first-come basis. Full payment timelines and terms are outlined upon booking.
What is your cancellation policy?
Because these are custom, small-group journeys with advance commitments, deposits are typically non-refundable. Full terms are provided at the time of reservation.
Why source through Sourcing Africa rather than independently?
Our value lies in: • Decades-long artisan relationships • Cultural fluency and ethical sourcing • Trusted quality, pricing, and export guidance • Access beyond showrooms—into workshops, families, and heritage We don’t just source objects—we build lasting creative relationships.
What will I experience on a Sourcing Africa expedition?
Each one of our expeditions is a curated, immersive journey created for interior designers, collectors, and creatives to discover exceptional artisans, materials, and workshops. These trips combine design sourcing, cultural exchange, and elevated travel, offering access that is rarely available independently.
Who are these trips for specifically? Do I have to be a designer?
Our expeditions are ideal for: • Interior designers and architects • Furniture, textile, and product designers • Collectors, stylists, and creative directors • Design-driven travelers seeking authentic, behind-the-scenes access But, no prior sourcing experience is required—only curiosity, respect, and a love of craftsmanship.
Which countries do you travel to?
Each itinerary is thoughtfully curated around artisanal regions, material heritage, and cultural significance. Our primary destinations include: • South Africa • Morocco • Egypt • Namibia (select journeys) • Botswana • Senegal • Seychelles • Kenya • Portugal • Japan • Argentina • Spain • France
What’s included in the expedition fee?
Typically included: • Luxury or character-driven accommodations • Ground transportation and internal travel • Private artisan visits and factory access • Curated cultural experiences and meals • On-site guidance, translation, and sourcing support • Design and export advisory throughout the trip Detailed inclusions are provided with each specific itinerary.
What’s not included?
• International airfare • Travel insurance (required) • Personal shopping, freight, or shipping costs • Optional excursions not listed in the itinerary
Can items be shipped back to the U.S. or Europe?
Yes, we assist with: • Vetting artisans and materials • Advising on export requirements • Coordinating crating, consolidation, and international freight Final shipping costs are separate and depend on volume, destination, and materials.
How large are the groups, typically?
We intentionally keep groups small and intimate—typically 8–12 participants—to ensure meaningful access, flexibility, and a respectful experience with artisans and communities.
Is it safe to travel on these expeditions?
Yes, safety is paramount. We work with trusted local partners, experienced drivers, vetted accommodations, and long-standing artisan relationships. Destinations and routes are carefully planned, and we provide pre-departure guidance for peace of mind.
Do I need special visas or vaccinations?
Visa and vaccination requirements vary by country and passport. We provide guidance well in advance, but participants are responsible for securing their own documentation.
How physically demanding are the trips?
Most days involve walking, standing, and travel between locations. We design itineraries with balance and comfort in mind, but participants should be comfortable with light to moderate physical activity.
How do I reserve my place?
A deposit is required to secure your place. Due to limited group sizes, spaces are confirmed on a first-come basis. Full payment timelines and terms are outlined upon booking.
What is your cancellation policy?
Because these are custom, small-group journeys with advance commitments, deposits are typically non-refundable. Full terms are provided at the time of reservation.
Why source through Sourcing Africa rather than independently?
Our value lies in: • Decades-long artisan relationships • Cultural fluency and ethical sourcing • Trusted quality, pricing, and export guidance • Access beyond showrooms—into workshops, families, and heritage We don’t just source objects—we build lasting creative relationships.
