Keep Travelling – Your African Story – Details, episodes & analysis

Episode Number: 60

Property / Guest Name

Ashley Weir - Golf Director

Episode Summary

• Ashley Weir shares insight into what makes Pezula Championship Course one of the most distinctive golf experiences along South Africa’s Garden Route
• A closer look at how course design, cool-season grass, and natural fynbos shape the playing experience at Pezula
• What it takes to operate and maintain a championship golf course in a coastal environment
• Behind-the-scenes realities of hosting Sunshine Tour events and professional tournaments
• Why Pezula continues to attract international golfers and returning visitors
• How Pezula fits into a wider Garden Route golf journey for travellers exploring the Western Cape

Guest Information

Ashley Weir
Director of Golf – Pezula Championship Course
Based in Knysna, South Africa

Key Takeaways / Topics Covered

• Why Pezula offers a rare balance of championship golf, coastal scenery, and natural surroundings
• How seasonality and course setup influence playability throughout the year
• This week’s prize giveaway reminder: listeners can win a four-ball at Pezula Championship Course, including golf carts, by entering here.

Contact Information

Email: rael@keeptravelling.africa

Blog Post

https://www.wildsunsets.travel/pezula-championship-course/

Episode Number

Episode 59

Property / Guest Name

Edward DeMarco 

Episode Summary

• Edward DeMarco shares what 14+ years of deep travel across Africa has taught him, and why Malawi remains one of the continent’s most overlooked gems
• A fascinating look at Malawi and Zambia as a combined travel circuit, blending classic safari experiences with pristine lakes, mountains, and living history
• Practical, real-world advice on getting to Malawi and Zambia from Europe, the UK, and North America without the stress many travellers expect
• Honest conversation around immigration, safety, security, and why Africa today is far more accessible and welcoming than the media suggests
• Insight into Malawi’s emerging conservation success stories, including Nkhotakota and Majete reserves, and the role of African Parks
• Why slower travel, walking safaris, boating safaris, and deeper cultural connection are shaping the future of African tourism

Guest Information

Edward DeMarco
Founder & Managing Director – Afrologi - afrologi.com
Development strategist, writer, and long-time Africa traveller with extensive experience across East and Southern Africa

Key Takeaways / Topics Covered

• Why Malawi offers Caribbean-like lake experiences, world-class scenery, and authentic travel with very few crowds
• How conservation, community involvement, and walking safaris are reshaping safari travel in Zambia and Malawi
• This week’s prize giveaway reminder: listeners can win unforgettable stays from Africa’s lodges and travel partners by subscribing and following the podcast

Contact Information

Email: rael@keeptravelling.africa

Blog Post

https://www.wildsunsets.travel/malawi-movement-and-meaningful-travel/

Episode Number: 50

Lanzerac
https://www.lanzerac.co.za

Episode Summary:

• Where is Lanzerac and what makes it unique within the Stellenbosch Winelands?
• Nathan Daly’s journey into hospitality and his role as Guest Relations Manager.
• The incredible people behind the property – from Auntie Mona’s 50-year legacy to unforgettable guest connections.
• The authentic charm, cuisine, and atmosphere that define the Lanzerac experience.
• The heritage, nature, and vibrant culture surrounding Stellenbosch.
• What keeps international guests coming back year after year.

Guest Information:

Nathan Daly – Guest Relations Manager at Lanzerac

Key Takeaways or Topics Covered:

• The rich history and timeless elegance of a property founded in 1692.
• How passion, people, and heartfelt hospitality turn every visit into a homecoming.
• This week’s giveaway: A two-night stay in a Classic Room, including breakfast and wine tasting!

Contact Information:

Should you want to contact me directly, please email: rael@wildsunsets.travel

Blog Post:

Please find the shortened version blog post of this podcast at:
https://www.wildsunsets.travel/lanzerac-hotel-stellenbosch/

Episode Number: 49
Byringiro Ghadi

Episode Summary:
Where in Rwanda does Byringiro guide?
What makes Nyungwe National Park so unique?
How did he start his guiding career?
Which areas are his personal favorites?
What kind of wildlife and bird species can be found there?
How safe is Rwanda for international visitors today?
What’s his vision for the future of Rwandan tourism?

Guest Information:
Byringiro Ghadi – Professional Tour Guide, Rwanda

Key Takeaways or Topics Covered:
• Discover Nyungwe National Park – the “Birds’ Paradise” of Rwanda, home to over 320 bird species, including 30 endemics like the Regal Sunbird.
• Explore the country’s most loved spots: Volcanoes National Park, Lake Kivu, and the legendary Thousand Hills.
• Hear Byringiro’s take on Rwanda’s conservation success and how the country rebuilt itself into one of Africa’s safest and cleanest destinations.
• Learn about community pride, eco-tourism growth, and how Rwanda is connecting sports, conferences, and nature to attract global visitors.
• Enjoy a few laughs — including a surprise encounter with a snake in a safari vehicle!

Contact Information:
Should you want to contact me directly, please email: rael@wildsunsets.travel

Blog Post:
Please find the shortened version blog post of this podcast at: https://www.wildsunsets.travel/byringiro

Episode Number: 48

Hatari Lodge
https://hatarilodge.com/

Episode Summary:
Where is the property located?
What makes Hatari Lodge unique among Tanzania’s safari destinations?
What film inspired the name “Hatari”?
How accessible is the lodge for international guests?
What nature and wildlife experiences can visitors expect?
What makes the food at Hatari Lodge so special?
Who’s the inspiring person behind the culinary philosophy?
Prize giveaway details for podcast listeners.

Guest Information:

Joerg Gabriel – Director at Hatari Lodge

Key Takeaways or Topics Covered:

• The incredible history behind Hatari, the 1960s John Wayne film shot where the lodge now stands.
• Located between Mount Kilimanjaro and Mount Meru, within Arusha National Park — just an hour from Kilimanjaro International Airport.
• Guests can start their safari adventure immediately, even on a late-night arrival.
• A malaria-free, cool mountain climate perfect for a relaxing start or end to any Tanzania itinerary.
• Unique forest and mountain setting with habituated giraffes, blue monkeys, colobus monkeys, and over 500 bird species.
• A pioneering “Wonder Garden Philosophy” focusing on culinary conservation — using indigenous ingredients from 1,500 small-scale farmers.
• Hatari’s Chef John and his team craft dishes from over 200 local products, supporting community sustainability.
• The lodge’s biogas system, organic sourcing, and zero waste approach redefine eco-luxury.
• Weekly prize giveaway: a 2-night stay for two at Hatari Lodge to experience their sustainable safari firsthand.

Contact Information:
Should you want to contact me directly, please email: rael@wildsunsets.travel

Blog Post:
Please find the shortened version blog post of this podcast at:
https://www.wildsunsets.travel/hatari

Episode Number: 45
Kichaka Expeditions
https://www.kichakaexpeditions.com/

Episode Summary:
Where is The property?
Was it always going to be tourism?
A day at Kichaka Expeditions
The easiest route in for International guests.
The name behind the lodge
Rewarding experiences with a guest
Love for the area
Wildlife experiences
Who is special amongst your staff.
Travelling to Africa

Guest Information:
Andrew Molinaro - Co-owner

Key Takeaways or Topics Covered:
The vastness of the area
Detached from civilisation

Contact Information:
Should you want to contact me directly, please email:rael@wildsunsets.travel

Blog Post:
Please find the shortened version blog post of this podcast at:
https://www.wildsunsets.travel/kichaka-expeditions/

Episode Number: 46

AirKenya
https://www.airkenya.com/

Episode Summary:
Who is AirKenya and how are they different from Kenya Airways?
Overview of Air Kenya’s operations across East Africa.
Partnerships with Aerolink (Uganda) and Regional Air (Tanzania).
Seamless safari connections — “Breakfast in the Mara, lunch in the Serengeti.”
Charter services and bespoke flight experiences.
Lounges and the safari-themed waiting area.
Jean Uku’s aviation journey and career story.
Most iconic destinations — Masai Mara, Serengeti, and Bwindi Forest.
AirKenya’s role in connecting travellers to wildlife and wilderness.
Sustainability and carbon-offset initiatives.
Fleet details – Caravans, Dash-6, Dash-8, and Dash-7 aircraft.
Operational challenges flying into remote airstrips.
Weather, logistics, and maintaining guest comfort.
Future plans and service improvements.
Prize giveaway – return tickets for two between Nairobi and the Masai Mara.

Guest Information:
Jean Uku – Marketing Manager

Key Takeaways or Topics Covered:
Premium safari airline offering seamless regional connectivity.
Legacy brand combining professionalism, flexibility, and conservation-minded growth.

Contact Information:
Should you want to contact me directly, please email: rael@wildsunsets.travel

Blog Post:
Please find the shortened version blog post of this podcast at:
https://www.wildsunsets.travel/airkenya/

Episode Number: 45
Vilanculos Beach Lodge
https://www.vilanculosbeachlodge.com/

Episode Summary:
Where is the property located?
Was tourism always the plan?
A day in the life at Vilanculos Beach Lodge.
What makes the lodge unique?
The special farewell ceremony for guests.
Most rewarding guest experiences.
Corporate social responsibility and the Goodwill Children’s Home.
The returning guest phenomenon.
Who visits Vilanculos and how do they travel there?
What makes Mozambique and its people so special?
Local culture and cuisine experiences with Dionisio.
Wildlife encounters – dolphins, whale sharks, and dugongs.
Who is special amongst your staff?
Safety and travelling to Mozambique.
Prize giveaway details.

Guest Information:
Angela Caratelli – General Manager

Key Takeaways or Topics Covered:
Gateway to Bazaruto National Park.
Hospitality with heart and genuine human connection.

Contact Information:
Should you want to contact me directly, please email: rael@wildsunsets.travel

Blog Post:
Please find the shortened version blog post of this podcast at:
https://www.wildsunsets.travel/vilanculos-beach-lodge/

Episode Number: 44
Rwandan Guide - Deo Ryumugabe
https://www.linkedin.com/in/deogratias-ryumugabe-2a5aa0136/

Episode Summary:
Where in Rwanda do you guide?
Was it always going to be tourism?
Favourite areas
Travellers safety
Traditional Foods
Hopes for the future
Where can people find you on-line?

Guest Information:
Deo Ryumugabe - Rwandan Guide

Key Takeaways or Topics Covered:
Beauty of Rwanda
Safety Guaranteed

Contact Information:
Should you want to contact me directly, please email:rael@wildsunsets.travel

Blog Post:
Please find the shortened version blog post of this podcast at:
https://www.wildsunsets.travel/great-guide/

Episode Number: 43
Bluewater Bay Sunrise Hotel
https://sunrisehotel.co.za/

Episode Summary:
Where is The property?
What makes does a rooms division manager do?
What do guests always rave about after leaving the property?
Traditional foods
A favourite spot
What nature experiences can be expected?
Who is special amongst your staff.
Prize giveaway

Guest Information:
Tania Piers-Prinsloo - Rooms Division Manager

Key Takeaways or Topics Covered:
Samp
Prize Giveaway

Contact Information:
Should you want to contact me directly, please email:rael@wildsunsets.travel

Blog Post:
Please find the shortened version blog post of this podcast at:
https://www.wildsunsets.travel/bluewater-bay-sunrise/