Travel Advisor

Advisor - Joshua Mahlum

Joshua Mahlum

He/Him

Expertise

  • Safari,
  • Namibia,
  • Rwanda,
  • Ethiopia,
  • Adventure Travel,
  • Honeymoon Travel

Based in

Chicago - City of Big Shoulders

Languages spoken

English

Minimum booking Budget

$500/night

Profile details

About

Chicago-based travel advisor who has a love for travel, adventure and sharing memorable moments while helping those navigating their trips worldwide.

Travel style

I'm very hands-on with traveling to destinations, picking the best outcomes in the outdoor adventure space. From a safari to Etosha National Park in Namibia, to parachuting over the Namib Desert or seeing many of the historic rock-hewn churches of Lalibela — I got it covered. You can get the best in adventure, luxury stays and cultural immersion. Trekking the beautiful Simien Mountains of Ethiopia, and Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, you can also get a chance to wine and dine at one of the most luxurious lodges in these destinations. I make sure that combining budget-savvy techniques and applying points for great accommodation and tour experiences will make your trip as effortless as possible.

Joshua's travel guides & trip reports

A cultural ceremony of warmth, where a steaming brew unites tradition and hospitality.
Guide

Sustainable Guide Across Ethiopia

There's a growing focus on ecotourism in Ethiopia, which means there are many opportunities to support responsible travel companies and lodges that are committed to protecting the environment and...
The image features a person traversing a forest trail surrounded by twisted, bare-branched trees.
Guide

Enjoy Gorilla Trekking and Comfort the Bisate Way in Rwanda

Volcanoes National Park is home to a few of the world's largest populations of silverback mountain gorillas in the world. With five extinct volcanoes and thick jungle vegetation with farmlands and...
Okahirongo Elephant Lodge is undeniably a beautiful camp.
Guide

Elephant Siting and Natural Setting, Okahirongo Elephant Lodge, Namibia

Okahirongo Elephant Lodge, Namibia sits in an unforgettable experience setting in the heart of the Purros Conservancy in Kaokoland. It is home to the last true wildness perched by the desert. Ideal...
A group of zebras grazing in a dry grassland with sparse trees and a clear blue sky.
Guide

Enchanting Namibia Private Safari from Etendeka Mountain Camp

Etendeka Mountain Camp is situated in the foothills of the Grootberg in the northwestern escarpment of Namibia. With beautiful walk-in tents and outside bathrooms with solar-heated bucket showers,...
A sunset sky over a city
Guide

Family Pack Fun at Entoto Park: Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Entoto Park in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, is a new park that opened in 2020 for those who want to appreciate the natural setting above Addis Ababa. The newly built facilities are provided with fun...
Outside sitting area with patio seating surrounded by lush greenery on a sunny day.
Trip Report

Site Inspection at Hyatt Regency Hotel Addis Ababa

While visiting a friend, I did a site inspection at Hyatt Regency Addis Ababa, one of our preferred partners. I recommend a stay here on your way out of Ethiopia, or a long flight layover while...
The sun setting over clouds
Trip Report

Chimp Trekking and Enjoying Nyungwe Forest

The One & Only Nyungwe House, located in the heart of Nyungwe, is a great place to start your trek through the rainforest, enjoying the nature scenes, and Chimpanzee and Colobus monkeys that dominate ...
A hillside road during a hazy day
Trip Report

Enjoy Enchanting Mountain Views in Luxury at Ethiopia's Limalimo Lodge

In November 2022, I did a site inspection while staying at Limalimo Lodge, located near the Simien Mountains National Park of Ethiopia near the town of Debark. The attentive staff is prepared to...
A view of the Kalahari desert in Namibia from a patio at Our Habitas Namibia
Trip Report

Unique Desert Stays in the Heart of Namibia

In 2022, a friend of mine stayed at this luxurious desert accommodation in the heart of Namibia. It was everything you could ask for. The 51,000-hectare nature reserve where rare and majestic...
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Favorite hotels

Sora Lodge Lalibela

Sora Lodge Lalibela in Ethiopia offers a unique blend of Ethiopian hospitality and stunning views of the historic rock-hewn churches of Lalibela.

Hilton Addis Ababa

Discover elegance and comfort at this prestigious hotel, where modern luxury meets Ethiopian charm, providing a memorable stay in the vibrant capital city.

Our Habitas Namibia

Our Habitas Namibia: A desert sanctuary where immersive experiences and sustainable luxury converge, inviting you to reconnect with nature and soul.

Fora Perks
  • ★

    Breakfast daily.

  • ★

    Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.

Fairmont Chicago Millennium Park

Where modern luxury meets classic elegance, offering unparalleled views and exceptional hospitality in the heart of the Windy City.

Fora Perks
  • ★

    Breakfast daily.

  • ★

    Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.

Bisate Lodge

Eco-lodge located near Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda featuring opulent villas with stunning views of the surrounding volcanic landscape, a gourmet restaurant, a bar and personalized service. Guests can enjoy activities such as gorilla trekking and community visits.

Get in touch with Joshua

Reach out to customize and book your own experience. Or, just to chat about travel in general.

You can normally expect a response from Joshua within a business day or so. You’ll also be subscribed to our travel newsletter (you can unsubscribe at any time).

Advisor - Joshua Mahlum

Travel Advisor

Joshua Mahlum