Our Journey
Originally from Australia, Audra and David Tucker have been passionate Africa travelers for over 20 years, sometimes visiting multiple times a year. In 2019, while living in Dallas, Texas, they set a personal record with 9 trips in a single year. Over time, they stayed at more than 470 lodges across southern and East Africa, quietly noting what worked beautifully and what fell short.
They watched the safari industry gradually shift from genuine adventure to something more like wildlife theme parks — rushed game drives ticking off the Big 5, cookie-cutter routines, and repetitive schedules that left many guests wanting something more authentic.
Determined to offer a better, more balanced experience, Audra and David began building Oase in 2020, right in the middle of the COVID pandemic. On their 530ha private reserve along the Blyde River in Hoedspruit, South Africa, they committed to investing over R100 million over eight years to bring their vision to life.
Oase was designed with privacy and comfort at its heart — just 7 luxury suites, with a maximum of 26 guests at any time. David played a very hands-on role, personally designing the guest rooms, facilities, road network, solar and water systems, and much of the interiors, drawing on everything they had learned from their travels.
Unlike most lodges, Oase has no fences separating guests from the wildlife. The entire property is open, giving guests the freedom to move around and enjoy the facilities at their own pace.
At Oase, the focus is on relaxation over rigid schedules, spontaneity over 5am wake-up calls, and genuine wellness over convenience. Guests wake up and dine when they choose, plan activities on a whim, or simply unwind in nature. Each suite has a dedicated butler who goes far beyond traditional service — helping with unpacking, meals, activity planning, and even joining excursions to ensure every moment is seamless and memorable.
Audra and David are passionate about creating a more authentic and personal safari experience. The whole team looks forward to welcoming you to Oase.