Meet the Team
It's Just Two of Us
A father-son duo who believe South Africa deserves better storytelling.
Jarryd: The Local
Jarryd grew up in Hout Bay, surrounded by mountains, the ocean, and the kind of natural beauty that you could take for granted until you leave.
He studied hospitality and moved to Norway, looking for new opportunities. He met incredible people, and learned a lot about what it takes to create great experiences. But something unexpected happened whilst he was there: he kept meeting Norwegians and International Travellers who were curious about South Africa but hesitant to visit.
Jarryd has an immense passion for his home environment and has moved back to his roots after spending over a decade abroad, including a 6-month trip to Southeast Asia with his Dad, Charles.
That's when the idea started forming.
The Journey
During all of his time overseas he found that the response was always the same: curiosity mixed with concern.
"Is it safe?" "What's it really like?" "Should we visit?"
The global narrative about South Africa has done us no favours. Crime statistics have dominated the headlines, whilst the natural beauty, the unique culture, and the warmth of the people have not..
But Jarryd also noticed something else: the tours available were pre-packaged itineraries that didn't show the real South Africa. No culture, no authentic experiences, no inside track.
That's when the spark turned into a flame.
South Africa doesn't need better PR. It needs better storytellers. And it needs tours that show what makes it special.
So here we are, back in the Western Cape, ready to show you the place we love. Not through a tour guide's script, but through a local's eyes.
You're not booking a tour. You're gaining a friend who happens to know all the best spots and the ones to avoid.
Charles: The
Wingman
When Jarryd came back from Norway with this idea brewing, Charles had just retired. His response? “Let’s take six months and explore Southeast Asia together.” Because why not?
During their trip, as in Norway, they met travellers from all over the world who were curious about South Africa but reluctant to travel there. The global narrative was all crime statistics and negative headlines. Nothing about the beauty, the people, or the amazing experiences that make South Afrca unforgettable.
Charles gets it: This isn’t about promoting South Africa. It’s about showing people the real deal. The local spots that don’t make it into guidebooks, the experiences that feel authentic, and the connections that matter.
When they returned home, Jarryd launched Scotty Knows Tours, and Charles decided to stick around for the ride. Not as a boss or a business partner, but as backup. Someone who knows the area, loves meeting new people, and joins experiences when it makes sense.
Charles brings big-picture thinking, born of his extensive business expertise, years of local travel experiences, and the kind of warmth that makes people feel like they’ve known him for years. Also, he makes a mean boerewors roll.
Why We Do This
Because South Africa deserves better storytelling.
Because the Western Cape is more than Table Mountain and wine farms, although those are pretty great.
Because pre-packaged tours don’t show you the real magic. The spontaneous moments, the local connections, the experiences that matter.
And because we genuinely love meeting new people and showing them the place we call home.
Also, good food is better with good company. Just saying.
Experience Examples
- Night kayaking at the V&A Waterfront under the stars
- Sandboarding the Atlantis Dunes at sunset
- Windsurfing at Shark Bay Langebaan - no sharks, just crystal-clear warm water
- A proper braai with locals
- Unique Garden Route road trips including gems like the iconic Storms River adventures
- Food Jams cooking workshops with local chefs