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Episode Number: 8 Property / Guest Name: Fred Phiri — Puku Ridge & Chichele Presidential, Zambia Luxury Lodges Collection Episode Summary: In this episode of Keep Travelling: Your African Story, I continue our Zambia Luxury Lodges Collection series with Fred Phiri, who manages Puku Ridge and works across Chichele Presidential in South Luangwa. Born and raised in Mfuwe, Fred has spent 27 years in the safari industry, working his way up from the bottom to lodge management. His connection to South Luangwa is both personal and professional, and that comes through strongly in the way he talks about the region, its wildlife and the guest experience. We explore the differences between Puku Ridge and Chichele Presidential, from Puku’s tented bush-camp feel and closeness to nature to Chichele’s more traditional luxury-lodge experience and panoramic position above the landscape.  Fred also shares what makes South Luangwa such a remarkable safari destination, including its reputation as the Valley of the Leopard, its special wildlife species and one extraordinary encounter involving a leopard, an impala and a pack of wild dogs.  In this episode, you’ll discover: Fred’s journey from growing up in Mfuwe to a 27-year career in the safari industryThe geographical and experiential differences between Puku Ridge and Chichele PresidentialWhat guests can expect from Puku Ridge’s tented rooms, star beds and plunge poolsWhy South Luangwa is known as the Valley of the LeopardThe special wildlife found in the region, including Thornicroft’s giraffe and Cookson’s wildebeestFred’s unforgettable leopard and wild-dog encounter, and why some safari moments are better experienced than photographedGuest Information: Fred Phiri is based in South Luangwa and manages Puku Ridge while also working across Chichele Presidential. Born and raised in Mfuwe, close to South Luangwa National Park, he has spent 27 years in the safari industry and brings extensive practical experience of lodge operations, guiding, wildlife and guest service.  Key Takeaways: Puku Ridge and Chichele Presidential offer distinctly different safari experiences, making the right choice dependent on the traveller rather than simply the property. South Luangwa combines exceptional predator viewing with distinctive regional species that add real depth to the safari experience. Some of the most memorable safari moments happen unexpectedly, and Fred’s story is a reminder to experience what is happening rather than focusing only on capturing the perfect photograph. Contact Information: Website: https://www.keeptravelling.africa Podcast: https://www.keeptravelling.africa/podcast YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@KeepTravellingYAV Email: [email protected] Blog: https://keeptravelling.africa/blog/pukuridge

Episode Number: 7 Episode Description: Discover Moon Mountain Lodge, a luxury desert retreat at the foot of Namibia's Naukluft Mountains, offering spectacular views across the Namib Desert and convenient access to Sossusvlei and Deadvlei. In this episode of Keep Travelling: Your African Story, host Rael Zieve welcomes Frans du Raan from Travel Weavers, who shares his journey from South Africa to Namibia and his experience of nearly three decades in African tourism. Located approximately 30 kilometres from Solitaire and 56 kilometres before Sesriem, Moon Mountain Lodge offers elevated timber-and-canvas accommodation designed to minimise environmental impact while providing panoramic views of the surrounding desert. Frans explains what guests can expect from the lodge, including its luxury rooms and executive suites, dining facilities, the Cosmos Bar and outdoor deck. He also discusses the lodge's approach to desert accommodation, using natural airflow, fans and water coolers rather than conventional air conditioning. The conversation explores the experiences that make Moon Mountain Lodge a memorable part of a Namibia itinerary. These include early morning excursions to Sossusvlei, picnic breakfasts in the desert, guided sunset walks, stargazing and wildlife viewing at the lodge's waterhole. Guests may encounter oryx, springbok, wildebeest, hartebeest and mountain zebra, while seasonal rainfall transforms the surrounding plains with fresh grass and wildflowers. Frans also shares practical advice for international visitors, including travelling from Windhoek or Walvis Bay, choosing a reliable rental vehicle, preparing for Namibia's gravel roads and understanding the country's different travel seasons. Whether you're planning a self-drive adventure, a privately guided tour or a luxury holiday near Sossusvlei, this episode offers valuable insights into Moon Mountain Lodge and the remarkable landscapes of southern Namibia. Guest Information: Frans du Raan Travel Weavers Featured Property: Moon Mountain Lodge, Namibia Key Takeaways: Location and accommodation: Moon Mountain Lodge is approximately 56 kilometres from Sesriem, making it a convenient base for visiting Sossusvlei and Deadvlei while enjoying luxury desert accommodation and panoramic views.Activities and experiences: Guests can enjoy guided Sossusvlei excursions, picnic breakfasts, sunset walks, stargazing and wildlife viewing at the lodge's waterhole.Practical Namibia travel advice: Allow at least two nights where possible, prepare for changing desert temperatures, use a reliable rental vehicle and book well ahead during the busier travel season.Contact Information: 🌍 Website: https://www.keeptravelling.africa 🎙️ Podcast: https://www.keeptravelling.africa/podcast ▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@KeepTravellingYAV ✉️ Email: [email protected] Blog Post: https://www.keeptravelling.africa/blog/moonmountainlodge

Episode Number: 6 Property / Guest Name: Sashwa – Peter Eastwood Episode Summary: Peter Eastwood shares how a lifelong connection with Africa, rhino conservation and fundraising eventually led to the creation of Sashwa in the Greater Kruger. Discover Sashwa’s slower safari philosophy, with 12 rooms, a wellness focus and facilities including massage, infrared sauna, yoga, meditation, a saltwater pool and creative spaces. Hear how the unfenced Greater Kruger setting allows wildlife such as rhino, leopard, lion and wild dog to move freely through the area. Learn why lower vehicle numbers can create more relaxed wildlife sightings and allow guests to spend longer with animals without the pressure of constant rotation. Explore Sashwa’s 100% plant-based food philosophy, local produce sourcing and its wider connection to sustainability and community support. Pick up practical South Africa travel advice, including what to pack, how to approach wildlife photography responsibly and what may surprise first-time visitors to the country. Guest Information: Peter Eastwood Founder Sashwa Key Takeaways / Topics Covered: Sashwa combines traditional Greater Kruger safari experiences with meditation, yoga, wellness and a slower daily rhythm. The lodge’s low vehicle density can create quieter, longer wildlife sightings than more crowded safari environments. Sashwa uses food, local sourcing, conservation partnerships and community initiatives as part of a broader effort to make a positive impact. Contact Information: 🌍 https://www.keeptravelling.africa 🎙️ Podcast: https://www.keeptravelling.africa/podcast ▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@KeepTravellingYAV ✉️ [email protected] Blog Post: https://www.keeptravelling.africa/blog/sashwa

Episode Number: 5 Property / Guest Name: Lolelunga Private Reserve – Wesley Hartmann Episode Summary:  Wesley Hartmann shares what makes Lolelunga Private Reserve such a distinctive Zambia safari experience, from its remote setting north of Kafue National Park to its private charter access from Lusaka.  Discover the lodge itself, including its seven rooms, family-friendly layout, gym, spa and position overlooking the Lunga River.  Hear how the Lunga River has been restored from a heavily depleted waterway into a protected fish nursery supporting multiple species.  Explore Lolelunga’s safari activities, including game drives, extended night drives, walking safaris, fishing, boating, canoeing, birding and stargazing.  Learn how long-term conservation work has helped rebuild the reserve from fewer than 100 animals to around 4,000, alongside employment, boreholes, schools, clinics and community support.  Pick up practical Zambia travel advice, including how many nights to stay, what to pack and what might surprise first-time visitors to the country. Guest Information: Wesley Hartmann Wildlife and Conservation Ambassador Zambia Luxury Lodge Collection Key Takeaways:  Lolelunga’s private reserve model allows for longer night drives, creating better opportunities to search for nocturnal species such as aardvark, pangolin and civet.  A minimum three-night stay at each safari lodge gives travellers more time to experience the property properly without feeling rushed between transfers and activities.  Conservation at Lolelunga is closely tied to surrounding communities through local employment, fresh-water projects, schools, clinics and long-term development. Contact Information: 🌍 https://www.keeptravelling.africa 🎙️ Podcast: https://www.keeptravelling.africa/podcast ▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@KeepTravellingYAV ✉️ [email protected] Blog Post: https://www.keeptravelling.africa/blog/lolelunga

Episode Number: 4 Property / Guest Name: Jao Reserve – Ryan Kays Episode Summary:  Ryan Kays shares what makes Jao Reserve such a distinctive part of Botswana’s Okavango Delta.  Discover how the reserve’s six camps offer different experiences across wetter and drier parts of the Delta.  Learn how guests reach Jao Reserve from Maun and why flying is the most practical way into this remote wilderness.  Explore the wide range of activities available, including game drives, night drives, mokoro trips, bush walks, boating, fishing and birding.  Hear the Kays family story and how generations of connection to Botswana helped shape Jao Reserve into what it is today.  Pick up practical Botswana travel advice, from what to pack to the things that may surprise first-time visitors. Guest Information: Ryan Kays Marketing Manager Jao Reserve Key Takeaways:  Combining the wetter and drier areas of Jao Reserve can create two very different Okavango Delta safari experiences within the same reserve.  Jao Reserve’s mix of land and water activities gives guests several different ways to experience the Delta. Prize Giveaway: One lucky Keep Travelling listener can win a two-night stay at Tubu Tree Camp in Botswana’s Okavango Delta. Contact Information: 🌍 www.keeptravelling.africa 🎙️ Podcast: www.keeptravelling.africa/podcast ▶️ @KeepTravellingYAV ✉️ [email protected] Blog Post: www.keeptravelling.africa/blog/jaoreserve

Episode Number: 3 Property / Guest Name Siringit Collection — Peter Bruins Episode Summary  Peter Bruins introduces Siringit Collection and its collection of distinctive safari properties across northern Tanzania.  Discover how Siringit Villa, Serengeti Camp, Migration Camp and Tarangire Camp each offer travellers a different experience.  Peter explains how Siringit Migration Camp follows the Great Migration between the southern Serengeti calving season and the northern Mara River crossings.  Hear why Tarangire, with its elephants, baobabs, woodland and river, deserves a place alongside Tanzania's better-known safari destinations.  Rael and Peter discuss food, wildlife, sustainability, community support and Siringit's conservation work.  Peter shares his thoughts on the future of African tourism and why growth in lesser-known protected areas could benefit conservation, communities and travellers. Guest Information Name: Peter Bruins Title: Country Manager Company: Siringit Collection Key Takeaways / Topics Covered Different Tanzania experiences: From an intimate villa near Arusha and big cats in the Serengeti to the Great Migration and elephant-rich Tarangire. Tourism with purpose: Siringit's story includes support for Bara Primary School alongside conservation, wildlife protection and sustainability initiatives. Prize Giveaway: One lucky listener can win a two-night stay at Siringit Tarangire Camp on a game package. Contact Information: 🌍 www.keeptravelling.africa 🎙️ Podcast: www.keeptravelling.africa/podcast ▶️ @KeepTravellingYAV ✉️ [email protected] Blog Post: www.keeptravelling.africa/blog/siringit

Episode Number: 2 Property / Guest Name Shandrani Beachcomber Resort & Spa – Rico Paoletti www.beachcomber-hotels.com Episode Summary: Rael Zieve speaks with Shandrani General Manager Rico Paoletti about what makes the Mauritius resort different.Rico explains the advantages of Shandrani being only minutes from Mauritius International Airport.They explore the resort’s 327 rooms, large peninsula setting and its different beaches and coastal landscapes.Rico discusses Shandrani’s family-friendly atmosphere, adults-only areas and six different dining experiences.The conversation looks at staff training, attention to detail and Rico’s long career in the Mauritius hotel industry.They also discuss Beachcomber Sport & Nature, including hiking, cycling and different ways to explore Mauritius beyond the resort.Guest Information: Name: Rico Paoletti Title: General Manager Company: Shandrani Beachcomber Resort & Spa Key Takeaways / Topics Covered Why Shandrani’s proximity to the airport can actually be an advantage, especially for families arriving after a long journey.How the resort combines family facilities, adults-only spaces, multiple beaches and six different dining experiences.Why Mauritian hospitality, staff development and opportunities to experience the island through nature remain central to the Shandrani experience.Contact Information: 🌍 www.keeptravelling.africa 🎙️ Podcast: www.keeptravelling.africa/podcast ▶️ @KeepTravellingYAV ✉️ [email protected] Blog Post: Read more about Shandrani Beachcomber Resort & Spa and the conversation with Rico Paoletti: www.keeptravelling.africa/blog/shandrani

Episode Number: 1 Property / Guest Name: Kariega Game Reserve – Lindy Sutherland Episode Summary:  Discover Kariega Game Reserve in South Africa’s Eastern Cape, close to Kenton-on-Sea and well placed for a Garden Route itinerary.  Compare Kariega’s five different lodge experiences, from family-friendly Main Lodge to five-star Settlers Drift and the private Homestead villa.  Learn what guests can expect from the food, hospitality and different dining styles across the reserve.  Explore Big Five game viewing alongside seven different biomes and remarkable Eastern Cape biodiversity.  Discover walking safaris, river cruises, canoeing, fishing, beach excursions and Kariega’s Kids on Safari programme.  Hear how family ownership, conservation and community projects have helped shape Kariega into the reserve it is today. Guest Information Name: Lindy Sutherland Title: Marketing Director Company: Kariega Game Reserve Key Takeaways / Topics Covered  Kariega offers five very different lodge experiences, allowing families, couples, active travellers, luxury guests and private groups to choose a safari style that suits them.  The reserve’s seven biomes, two rivers and position within an exceptionally biodiverse part of the Eastern Cape add another dimension to its Big Five safari experience.  Guests staying longer can combine different lodges and explore Kariega’s conservation and community work through the Kariega Foundation. Contact Information: Email: [email protected] Blog Post: https://keeptravelling.africa/blog/kariega/ 🌍 Visit: www.keeptravelling.africa  🎙️ Podcast: www.keeptravelling.africa/podcast ▶️ YouTube: @KeepTravellingYAV

After 88 weeks of bringing different properties to life, we have now finished season 1. Keep listening for the start of season 2 on the 2nd of September 2026

Episode Number: 88 Property / Guest Name: Mfulawozi Private Game Reserve – Wendy Dold Episode Summary:  Discover Mfulawozi Private Game Reserve on the southern boundary of Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park.  Compare the relaxed, family-friendly Mthembu Lodge with the bold and modern Biyela Lodge.  Learn what guests can expect from the reserve’s five-star, all-inclusive safari experience.  Explore Big Five game viewing, cheetahs, wild dogs, black and white rhinos, and rich birdlife.  Hear how Zulu heritage, community ownership and conservation shape the guest experience.  Find out why KwaZulu-Natal works so well for a bush, beach, Battlefields and Drakensberg itinerary. Guest Information Name: Wendy Dold Title: Sales Manager Company: Mfulawozi Private Game Reserve Key Takeaways / Topics Covered  Mfulawozi offers two very different five-star lodge experiences, while both give guests access to the same wider wilderness.  KwaZulu-Natal offers strong value, a malaria-free setting, excellent wildlife and easy bush-and-beach combinations.  Listeners can win a two-night stay at Mthembu Lodge, including accommodation, local food, beverages and the safari experience. Contact Information: Email: [email protected] Blog Post: https://keeptravelling.africa/blog/mfulawozi/ 🌍 Visit: www.keeptravelling.africa 🎙️ Podcast: www.keeptravelling.africa/podcast ▶️ YouTube: @KeepTravellingYAV

Episode Number: 87 Property / Guest Name: The Harbour Club – Wendy Dold Episode Summary:  Discover Harbour Club overlooking the Port of St Francis.  Learn how easily guests can travel from Port Elizabeth Airport.  Explore the studio apartments, two-bedroom units and penthouses.  Hear about canal cruises, whale watching, golf and seafood.  Learn how St Francis Bay fits into a Garden Route itinerary.  Discover why the coast works so well after an Eastern Cape safari. Guest Information: Wendy Dold Sales and Marketing Manager Harbour Club Key Takeaways / Topics Covered:  The Harbour Club offers independent apartment-style accommodation with harbour views, optional breakfast delivery and easy access to local restaurants.  St Francis Bay combines golf, beaches, seafood, whale watching and coastal activities with a relaxed pace.  One listener can win a two-night penthouse stay for up to four people, continental breakfast each morning and a canal cruise. Enter HereContact Information: [email protected] Blog Post: Read more about Harbour Club and planning a St Francis Bay holiday: https://keeptravelling.africa/blog/The Harbour Club/

Episode Number: Episode 86 Property / Guest Name: Moditlo River Lodge – Christiaan van den Berg Episode Summary:  Discover Moditlo River Lodge in South Africa’s Greater Kruger region.  Learn how easily guests can reach the lodge from Hoedspruit Airport.  Explore the luxury chalets, private villas and personalised safari service.  Hear why an authentic safari should go beyond simply seeing the Big Five.  Discover walking safaris, wildlife tracking and nearby experiences.  Learn how to combine a Greater Kruger safari with Cape Town and the coast. Guest Information: Christiaan van den Berg Co-owner Moditlo River Lodge Key Takeaways / Topics Covered:  Moditlo combines twice-daily game drives, luxury accommodation, personal dining and private wildlife experiences.  The lodge supports conservation, anti-poaching work and respectful wildlife viewing across its conservancy.  One listener can win a complimentary two-night stay for two people at Moditlo River Lodge, with the option to upgrade to a private villa. Contact Information: [email protected] Blog Post: https://keeptravelling.africa/blog/moditlo/

Episode Number: Episode 85 Property / Guest Name: Sentidos Beach Retreat – Ines Ferreira and Ria Doorgachurn Episode Summary: Discover Sentidos Beach Retreat on Mozambique’s Inhambane coastline.Learn how guests can reach the retreat from Maputo, Vilanculos and South Africa.Explore the beach villas, nature villas and private-pool ocean villas.Hear about whale shark safaris, scuba diving and mangrove kayaking.Discover Mozambican food, fresh seafood and local cultural experiences.Learn why Mozambique can offer a rewarding holiday throughout the year.Guest Information: Ines Ferreira Head of Sales Sentidos Beach Retreat Ria Doorgachurn Activities Representative and Open Water Scuba Instructor SEE Activity Centre / Sentidos Beach Retreat Key Takeaways / Topics Covered: Sentidos combines a peaceful Mozambique beach holiday with diving, marine wildlife, local food and cultural experiences.Inhambane offers year-round travel possibilities, with busier holiday periods and quieter months for uncrowded beaches.One listener can win a two-night bed-and-breakfast stay for two, return Inhambane Airport transfers and a one-hour sunset quad-bike tour.Contact Information: [email protected] Blog Post: https://keeptravelling.africa/blog/sentidos/

Episode Number: 84 Property / Guest Name: Darryl Erasmus – Babanango Game Reserve Episode Summary: Discover Babanango Game Reserve in the heart of ZululandLearn about its lodges, camps and luxury safari staysHear how the reserve is restoring wildlife and habitatsExplore Big Five game drives and walking safari experiencesUnderstand the role local communities play in the reserveFind out why Zululand deserves more safari attentionGuest Information: Darryl Erasmus Chief Commercial Officer Babanango Game Reserve www.babanango.com Key Takeaways / Topics Covered: Babanango offers a malaria-free Big Five safari across more than 20,000 hectaresGuests can choose between family lodges, luxury river stays, ridge-top accommodation and walking trailsCommunity-owned land, local employment and conservation sit at the heart of the reserve’s storyContact Information: [email protected] Blog Post: https://keeptravelling.africa/blog/babanango/

Episode Number: 83 Property / Guest Name: Julia Bishop – Hodi Hodi Episode Summary: Rael Zieve speaks with Julia Bishop, Director of Hodi Hodi in southern Tanzania. Julia explains the meaning behind the name Hodi Hodi and the warm African welcome it represents. She shares how international guests can reach the camp through Dar es Salaam or Zanzibar. The conversation explores Hodi Hodi’s location near Ruaha National Park, its rooms, facilities and relaxed safari atmosphere. Julia talks about the camp’s farm-to-table food, wildlife, walking safaris and night safari experiences. She also explains how Hodi Hodi works with nearby communities to protect 17,000 acres of land and support local projects. Guest Information: Julia Bishop Director Hodi Hodi Southern Tanzania Key Takeaways / Topics Covered: Why southern Tanzania and Ruaha offer a quieter alternative to the better-known northern safari circuit. How Hodi Hodi combines wildlife, local food, personal service and community-led conservation. Guests who book a three-night stay can receive a fourth night free, including full board and activities for the additional day. Contact Information: For more information, contact Rael Zieve at [email protected] Blog Post: https://keeptravelling.africa/blog/tanzania-safari-near-ruaha-national-park/