In this episode, I’m joined by Kristina Plattner, the managing director of Kamba Rainforest Experiences, a groundbreaking eco-tourism initiative deep in the heart of the Republic of Congo (ROC). Kristina shares her fascinating journey from growing up in the hospitality world of South Africa to creating immersive travel experiences in one of the world’s last great rainforests. Her passion for conservation, community engagement, and storytelling shines as we talk about how Kamba connects travelers with the lush, biodiverse environment of the Congo Basin—a region few tourists have explored but which holds incredible ecological and cultural significance. From tracking western lowland gorillas and forest elephants to collaborating with local guides and Ba’Aka communities, Kamba is all about meaningful, ethical, and unforgettable encounters.

We also dive into the realities of running a responsible tourism business in such a remote, logistically challenging region. Kristina discusses the balance between luxury and sustainability, the importance of respecting local traditions, and the vision for Kamba to become a leader in regenerative travel across Central Africa. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or dreaming of going off-grid for the first time, this episode will open your eyes to the beauty and potential of the Republic of Congo as a premier destination for nature and culture lovers alike. If you’re seeking untamed wilderness, rare wildlife encounters, and a chance to travel with purpose, this conversation will both inspire and inform.

We discuss:

✅ What makes Kamba Rainforest Experiences unique

✅ How Kristina fell in love with the Congo and transitioned from hospitality in South Africa to jungle adventures in the ROC

✅ Gorilla trekking, forest safaris, and cultural immersion with local communities

✅ The challenges and rewards of running an eco-tourism initiative in remote Central Africa

✅ Why the ROC is an off-the-beaten-path travel gem worth discovering now

🌍 Whether you're a curious traveller, conservation enthusiast, or looking to visit lesser-known destinations in Africa, this episode will inspire your next adventure.

Kamba Links

Kamba Rainforest Experiences - https://kambaafrica.com/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/kamba.africa/

Timestamps

00:00 Introduction

02:29 Tina Plattner's Journey and Background

09:17 The Founding of Kamba African Rainforest Experiences

11:40 Understanding the Republic of Congo

16:25 Exploring Otsala Kukua National Park

20:06 Wildlife Encounters and Gorilla Tracking

23:05 Adventure Packages and Guest Experiences

27:11 Sustainability Practices and Community Impact

29:24 Gorilla Tracking and Wildlife Interactions

31:07 Conservation Efforts and Local Communities

34:27 Empowering Local Guides and Education

36:24 The Shift in Travel Mindset

38:25 Budgeting for Unique Experiences

40:14 Why Choose Kamba for Your Adventure?

43:22 Exploring Beyond the Rainforest

46:08 Cost of Living and Travel in the Republic of Congo

48:05 The Allure of the Untouched Wilderness

50:29 Connecting with Kamba: Booking Your Journey

--------------------------------------------------------------

Voyascape: Travel Podcast Network - https://voyascape.com/

Winging It Travel Podcast - Website

Please leave a review and rating wherever you get your podcasts!

--------------------------------------------------------------

Winging It Travel Podcast Credits

Host/Producer/Creator/Composer/Editor - James Hammond

Contact me - [email protected] 

Social Media - follow me on:

Instagram

TikTok 

Facebook 

--------------------------------------------------------------

Support My Podcast - Memberships

Patreon - Here

Buy Me A Coffee - Here

Affiliate Links 

If you click one of the below to book something, I get a tiny commission, which helps the podcast.

Book Flights with Skyscanner - Here 

Use Revolut Travel Card - Here

Book Your E-Sim With GigSky - Here

Book Hostels With Hostelworld - Here

Booking.com - Here

Book Experiences With Viator - Here

Discovery Car Hire - Here

Book Buses With Busbud - Here

Book Trains With Trainline - Here

Travel Insurance with SafetyWing - Here

Book Flights With Expedia Canada - Here

Buy my Digital Travel Planner - Here

--------------------------------------------------------------

Thanks for supporting me and the podcast!

Cheers, James.