Keep Travelling | Travel Stories & Cultural Experiences

Episode Number: 10

Property / Guest Name:
Harjot Mann — Director & Co-Founder, Nimali Africa, Tanzania

Episode Summary:
In this episode of Keep Travelling: Your African Story, I speak with Harjot Mann, Director and Co-Founder of Nimali Africa, about the story behind a family-built collection of safari properties across Tanzania’s northern circuit.

Born and raised in Tanzania, Harjot grew up with safari, wildlife and the landscapes of East Africa as part of everyday life. That connection eventually helped shape Nimali Africa, which began with a piece of land bordering Tarangire National Park and developed into a collection that now includes Nimali Tarangire, Nimali Serengeti, Nimali Mara and the exclusive-use Ilaroi House.

We explore what makes each property different, how Nimali approaches intimate safari experiences, and what the brand means by its “Safaris for the Senses” philosophy.

Harjot also shares her views on Tanzania’s green and shoulder seasons, what genuinely makes a safari luxurious, where travellers should spend their money, the importance of good guiding, and the role conservation and local communities play in protecting wildlife areas.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

• How Harjot’s upbringing in Tanzania and family connection to wildlife led to the creation of Nimali Africa
• The differences between Nimali Tarangire, Nimali Serengeti, Nimali Mara and Ilaroi House
• What a perfect safari day can include, from sunrise game drives and walking safaris to sundowners and waterhole viewing
• What Nimali means by “Safaris for the Senses”
• Why Tanzania’s green and shoulder seasons can offer exceptional wildlife experiences
• What truly makes a safari luxurious, and why guiding, space and authenticity can matter more than extra room amenities

Guest Information:
Harjot Mann is the Director and Co-Founder of Nimali Africa and was born and raised in Tanzania. Her connection to safari and wildlife began from a young age through family trips into the bush, and that lifelong familiarity with the country helped shape the philosophy behind Nimali Africa.

Together with her family, she has developed a collection of intimate safari properties across Tanzania’s northern circuit, including Nimali Tarangire, Nimali Serengeti, Nimali Mara and the exclusive-use Ilaroi House. Her approach combines boutique safari hospitality with a strong focus on wildlife, conservation, local employment, community involvement and creating experiences that allow guests to connect more deeply with Tanzania.

Key Takeaways:

• Nimali’s four properties offer different safari experiences, from intimate tented camps to the complete privacy of Ilaroi House.
• The best safari experience is not necessarily defined by more luxury amenities; strong guiding, location, wildlife access and time in the destination can matter far more.
• Conservation, community employment and education are closely linked, and Nimali’s experience shows how wildlife can recover when local people and tourism work together.

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/nimali/

Episode Number: 9

Property / Guest Name:
Epupa Camp – Deane Spall

Episode Summary:
In the far north of Namibia, where the Kunene River forms the border with Angola, lies one of the country’s most remote and fascinating destinations — Epupa Falls.

In this episode of Keep Travelling: Your African Story, Rael Zieve speaks with Deane Spall from Epupa Camp about what it takes to reach this extraordinary corner of Namibia, what travellers can expect when they arrive, and why Epupa offers such a different experience from the country’s more established tourism routes.

Set beside the Kunene River and completely off-grid, Epupa Camp combines a remote natural setting with river-facing accommodation, local hospitality and access to some of the region’s most memorable cultural and outdoor experiences.

Deane also shares his own unexpected journey from studying finance and accounting to spending two years living at Epupa Camp — an experience that ultimately helped shape his career in African tourism.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

• How to reach Epupa Falls and why the final journey from Opuwo is part of the experience
• What it is like to stay at a completely off-grid camp beside the Kunene River
• How guests can experience Himba culture in genuine local communities
• What to expect from rafting, birding and sundowners overlooking Epupa Falls
• Why Epupa is particularly appealing to repeat visitors looking beyond Namibia’s classic tourism routes
• What travellers should pack when exploring this remote part of northern Namibia

Guest Information:
Deane Spall
Epupa Camp
Northern Namibia
https://www.epupa.com.na/

Key Takeaways:

• Epupa is ideal for travellers wanting to experience a remote and less-travelled side of Namibia beyond the traditional tourist circuit.
• The destination combines dramatic landscapes, the Kunene River, Epupa Falls and meaningful cultural experiences with local Himba communities.
• Epupa Camp’s long history and off-grid setting make it particularly suited to travellers who value authenticity, remoteness and a strong sense of place.

Contact Information:
Website: https://www.keeptravelling.africa
Podcast: https://www.keeptravelling.africa/podcast
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@KeepTravellingYAV
Email: [email protected]

Blog:
www.keeptravelling.africa/blog/epupacamp

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 industry
• The geographical and experiential differences between Puku Ridge and Chichele Presidential
• What guests can expect from Puku Ridge’s tented rooms, star beds and plunge pools
• Why South Luangwa is known as the Valley of the Leopard
• The special wildlife found in the region, including Thornicroft’s giraffe and Cookson’s wildebeest
• Fred’s unforgettable leopard and wild-dog encounter, and why some safari moments are better experienced than photographed

Guest 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