ABHIMANYU PRARTHNA EXPEDITIONS
How APE Was Born
Every journey has a beginning.
The story starts with Yatin Patel, a man who chose to spend decades walking a path less travelled. Though not a forest officer, researcher, or wildlife professional by occupation, the forests became an inseparable part of his life. An astute businessman by profession, his heart always belonged to the jungles of India. For over four decades, he travelled through forests, tracked tigers, observed wildlife, and built a deep understanding of the wilderness that only years of patient observation can provide.
What started as a passion soon became a legacy. Growing up amidst stories of tiger sightings, forest trails, and countless adventures in the wild, his daughter Prarthana Patel inherited not only his love for nature but also his curiosity and respect for the jungle.
Then came Abhimanyu Gandhi — someone whose enthusiasm for wildlife matched that of Prarthana's. Their shared love for forests, wildlife, conservation, and meaningful travel brought them together. What began as conversations about safaris, photography, animal behaviour, and jungle experiences soon evolved into a vision.
A vision to create wildlife journeys that were not merely vacations, but immersive experiences led by people who genuinely love and understand the forests.
And thus, one fine day, Abhimanyu Prarthana Expeditions (APE) was born. Today, APE combines decades of jungle experience, meticulous planning, and an enduring passion for wildlife to create memorable journeys through India's most remarkable forests.
THE HEART OF APE
The People
Abhimanyu Gandhi
THE ENTHUSIAST
Abhimanyu is the spark that keeps every expedition alive. His enthusiasm for wildlife is infectious, and his excitement for every sighting — whether it's a tiger, a leopard, a raptor, or a tiny forest inhabitant — reminds guests why they fell in love with nature in the first place.
As a mentor, he brings energy, warmth, and genuine passion to every journey. Yet, amidst all the excitement, he understands one of the most important lessons the jungle teaches — silence. In the forests, his quiet observation often speaks louder than words, allowing guests to truly absorb the sights, sounds, and rhythms of the wilderness.
Prarthana Patel
THE ARCHITECT BEHIND THE EXPERIENCE
Behind every seamless expedition is careful planning, adaptability, and attention to detail — and that is where Prarthana truly shines. From coordinating itineraries and managing logistics to handling last-minute changes with calm efficiency, she ensures that every aspect of the journey runs smoothly.
But her role goes beyond management. Prarthana has an eye for the finer nuances of the forest and a deep appreciation for the stories hidden within it. Through her perspective, the jungle becomes more than a destination — it becomes an experience to be understood, appreciated, and remembered long after the journey ends.
Yatin Patel
THE PATRON
With over four decades of experience exploring India's forests, Yatin Patel is the guiding force and inspiration behind APE. His passion for wildlife extends far beyond photography; it is deeply rooted in a lifelong commitment to understanding and appreciating the wilderness. An ardent supporter of tiger conservation and ethical wildlife tourism, he possesses an extraordinary ability to read the forest and interpret its subtle signs — from alarm calls and pugmarks to animal behaviour and forest dynamics.
But perhaps his greatest gift lies in storytelling. Every trail, every tiger sighting, and every forest has a story, and Yatin brings them alive with a perspective that only decades of experience can offer. Whether tracking a tiger through a dense sal forest or sharing lessons learned from years in the wilderness, he transforms every safari into a journey of discovery.
WHAT WE STAND FOR
Our Philosophy
Small Groups
Maximum 4 guests per Gypsy. The forest is not a stadium. Silence, patience, and space are what bring the wild to you.
Hand-Picked Guides
Every guide and driver is personally selected. Not roster-assigned — chosen for their knowledge, temperament, and love of the forest.
Responsible Tourism
We follow strict forest protocols, support local communities, and never compromise the welfare of wildlife for a better photograph.
Years of Jungle Experience
Safaris Conducted
Countries Represented
Legendary Reserves