Cirrus Unlisted Investments has acquired a significant minority stake in Namibian luxury lodge and tour operator Ultimate Safaris, in an equity funding transaction aimed at supporting the company’s expansion and growth within Namibia’s high-end tourism sector.
The investment according to Cirrus, was concluded on behalf of individual and institutional Namibian investors and establishes a strategic partnership between the locally owned investment manager and one of Namibia’s established luxury ecotourism operators.
Financial details of the transaction were not disclosed.
Cirrus Unlisted Investments Managing Director Erik de Waal said the investment reflects confidence in Namibia’s long-term tourism potential and Ultimate Safaris’ position within the sector.
“Namibia has vast potential to become a world-leading high-end tourism destination, and we see the potential for extensive growth in this space. Ultimate is well positioned to play a significant role in driving this growth, creating quality jobs and opportunities across Namibia. We are excited to partner with Ultimate on this journey as a capital provider and investor,” de Waal said.
Ultimate Safaris has built an international reputation for sustainability-focused tourism, offering luxury safari experiences designed around environmental conservation and community partnerships across Namibia’s remote wilderness areas.
Ultimate Safaris Managing Director Tristan Cowley said the investment would support the company’s expansion while maintaining its local identity and long-term sustainability focus.
“We value our new partnership with Cirrus, whose approach and ethos align strongly with the way we conduct our business. We are also encouraged by the confidence demonstrated by individual and institutional Namibian investors, which ensures that Ultimate remains a Namibian business and story,” Cowley said.
The investment was structured through a Namfisa-registered special purpose vehicle, which attracted both private and institutional investors.
According to the companies, the funding will accelerate Ultimate Safaris’ expansion plans as Namibia continues to benefit from global travel trends favouring nature-based and conservation-led tourism.
Cirrus Unlisted Investments, part of the 100% Namibian-owned Cirrus Group, is a Namfisa-regulated unlisted investment manager that manages investments on behalf of individual and institutional investors while investing alongside them in Namibian companies and projects aimed at supporting economic growth, job creation and long-term value creation.
