The Big Five might get all the attention - but game viewing goes way beyond lions, leopards and large grey animals.

Travel with me to Botswana to chat with Grant Reed, co-founder of Letaka Safaris and veteran safari guide who has spent decades exploring the bush, training guides, and reminding guests that the “Small Five,” the “Ugly Five,” and even the “Sexy Five” deserve their spotlight too.

André and Grant unpack:

• Why the “Big Five” started as a hunting term (and why guides now wince when they hear it)
• What happens when you stop chasing sightings and start chasing experiences
• Why birdwatching can be addictive, and how a “little brown job” might just steal your heart
• The magic of mobile tented safaris in Botswana, where you travel lightly and leave only footprints

It’s a conversation that celebrates the whole ecosystem: from black mambas gliding through the grass to lilac-breasted rollers painting the sky.

Because in the end, Africa’s beauty isn’t measured by the size of the animal, but by the stories you uncover when you slow down, listen, and let the bush reveal itself.

Deutsch: Du kannst diesen Podcast auch auf Deutsch hören: “Africa with André auf Deutsch”

** Please tell your friends about this podcast, and leave me a rating on Spotify or Apple. I would love to hear from you - send me your questions, comments and ideas to podcast@africawithandre.com **

The Big Five: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Big_Five_game

Letaka Safaris: https://www.letakasafaris.com/

Marabou Stork: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marabou_stork

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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/africa_with_andre

Subscribe to Email reminders when episodes go live: www.africawithandre.com

Sound credits: uppbeat.io/ and https://pixabay.com/

What do rhinos, elephants… and succulents have in common? Sadly, they are all poached.

In this eye-opening (and occasionally eyebrow-raising) episode, we meet Paul Vorster from Sanbona Wildlife Reserve in South Africa’s Western Cape.

André and Paul unpack the wild world of plant poaching, where tiny succulents worth a few dollars at your local market can fuel international crime syndicates. From rhino horn smuggling to beetle collectors with big egos, this conversation sheds light on the lesser-known corners of the conservation struggle — and on the quiet heroes fighting back.

Paul also tells us how Sanbona transformed 62,000 hectares of old cattle land into one of South Africa’s most beautiful rewilded reserves.

This episode reminds us that saving Africa’s wild spaces isn’t just about the “Big Five” - it’s about every plant, insect, and person who calls it home.

Deutsch: Du kannst diesen Podcast auch auf Deutsch hören: “Africa with André auf Deutsch”

Sanbona Wildlife Reserve: https://www.sanbona.com/

CapeNature: https://www.capenature.co.za/

Klein Karoo: https://www.karoo-southafrica.com/klein-karoo/

Articles from Paul

“Daily Maverick” article: https://www.dailymaverick.co.za/article/2025-07-08-conviction-reveals-criminal-syndicates-shifting-focus-in-illegal-plant-trade/

Youtube video from “Daily Maverick”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CRLkwZAhXQ4

👉 If you’ve enjoyed this episode or have thoughts to share, please reach out: podcast@africawithandre.com

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Sound credits: uppbeat.io/ and https://pixabay.com/

South Africa has long been known for more than just safaris and Table Mountain – it is an absolute paradise for foodies. In this episode, I chat with Michi, a Swiss chef and food scout who regularly visits Cape Town. He is always on the lookout for new culinary highlights.

Michi shares his favourite restaurants with us, including real insider tips such as the South China Dim Sum Bar and the stylish Hemel Huijs, explains why Willoughby's Sushi is a must for him every year – and how you can literally eat your way around the world in the Western Cape region.

We talk about Cape Town as a ‘melting pot of flavours’, the incredible quality of South African ingredients, about ostrich fillets instead of fondue – and why Scarborough is one of the most magical places in South Africa for Michi and myself.

If you already love Cape Town, or are just planning your first trip there, this episode will not only make you hungry, but also guarantee you wanderlust.

Deutsch: Du kannst diesen Podcast auch auf Deutsch hören: “Africa with André auf Deutsch”

👉 If you’ve enjoyed this episode or have thoughts to share, please reach out: podcast@africawithandre.com

Michi Angehrn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michi_eats_out

Willoughby & Co: https://willoughbyandco.co.za/

Hemel Huijs: https://www.hemelhuijs.co.za/

South China Dim Sum: https://www.facebook.com/SouthChinaDimSumBar/

Pajamas & Jam Eatery: https://www.pajamasandjam.com/

Babylonstoren: https://babylonstoren.com/

Ouzeri: https://www.ouzeri.co.za/

To make reservations: Dineplan: https://www.dineplan.com/

Jonkmanshof in Montagu: https://www.jonkmanshof.com/

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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/africa_with_andre

Subscribe to Email reminders when episodes go live: www.africawithandre.com

Sound credits: uppbeat.io/ and https://pixabay.com/

What connects the friendliest people in the world with 500 elephants on trucks, and fish with amazing fashion sense? Malawi.

In this episode, André chats with Lindsay, a Malawi-born tourism expert who has been showing travellers the magic of her country for over 25 years, about why Malawi is Africa’s best-kept secret. From safaris without the crowds, to the sparkling waters of Lake Malawi (a.k.a. the “Calendar Lake”), to the misunderstood hyena who just wanted to go home… Malawi has a way of surprising even the most seasoned traveller.

We’ll dive into the Big Five, lake-side beaches, soulful highlands, and colourful cichlids you’ve probably seen in aquariums but never in the wild. You'll learn what a classic two-week itinerary might look like and what to expect in terms of accommodation and food (spoiler: no giant hotel chains, but plenty of soul)

Lindsay shares insider tips, funny stories, and what makes the “Warm Heart of Africa” truly warm. So, whether you’ve never heard much about Malawi (apart from Madonna and a baby…) or you’re already planning your second trip, this episode will make you curious, inspired, and maybe even a little hungry for Nsima Pap and curry.

Deutsch: Du kannst diesen Podcast auch auf Deutsch hören: “Africa with André auf Deutsch”

** Enjoyed the episode? Please rate and review "Africa with André" on Spotify or Apple Podcasts — it really helps more people discover Africa’s positive stories.

I would love to hear from you - send me your questions, comments and ideas to podcast@africawithandre.com **

Ulendo Safaris: https://ulendo.net/

Malawi Tourism: https://visitmalawi.mw/

Stops on a suggested Malawi Itinerary:

- Lilongwe: https://visitmalawi.mw/lilongwe-capital-city/

- Majete Wildlife Reserve: https://www.africanparks.org/the-parks/majete

- Liwonde National Park: https://www.africanparks.org/the-parks/liwonde

- Zomba Plateau in the Highlands: https://www.malawitourism.com/regions/south-malawi/zomba-plateau/

- Mulanje area: https://visitmalawi.mw/mulanje-and-thyolo/

- Shire Highlands: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shire_Highlands

- Lake Malawi:

In this episode, we head to the rugged beauty of Namibia’s Damaraland to meet some very special residents: the last 150 desert-adapted elephants. My guest, Daniel Oswald, shares how a volunteer project with the Elephant Human Relations Aid (EHRA) not only brought him face-to-trunk with these remarkable giants, but also inspired him to swop his Swiss banking career for a life in Africa tourism.

From building protective walls to prevent elephants from damaging farmers’ water pumps, to tracking herds under the blazing desert sun, Dani reveals how hands-on conservation is helping people and wildlife coexist. We talk about sleeping under the stars, the Peace and Seed education projects, and the unexpected joys (and surprises) of life in the bush.

Whether you’ve dreamed of volunteering in Africa, are fascinated by wildlife conservation, or just love a good story about life-changing journeys, this episode will leave you inspired. And maybe it will have you packing your own bag for Namibia.

Deutsch: Du kannst diesen Podcast auch auf Deutsch hören: “Africa with André auf Deutsch”

EHRA: https://www.ehranamibia.org/

Namibia Tourism: https://visitnamibia.com.na/

Malva pudding recipe: https://wandercapetown.com/recipe/malva-pudding/

👉 If you’ve enjoyed this episode or have thoughts to share, please reach out: podcast@africawithandre.com

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Sound credits: uppbeat.io/ and https://pixabay.com/

In this episode we share the remarkable story of "Mary" (a pseudonym to protect her privacy), a woman whose determination, integrity, and resilience helped her rise from humble beginnings to the role of General Manager of an hotel in Africa.

Starting with no connections, no job prospects, and even being asked for unspeakable "favors" just to get a chance at work, her story is one of courage in the face of cultural challenges.

We explore how Mary fought for her first job, the struggles of women in male-dominated work environments, and how she is now mentoring younger women. The deep love she has for her job, makes her hotel a special place.

This is a raw and inspiring conversation about resilience, leadership, and the power of staying true to one’s values.

Deutsch: Du kannst diesen Podcast auch auf Deutsch hören: “Africa with André auf Deutsch”

👉 If you’ve enjoyed this episode or have thoughts to share, please reach out: podcast@africawithandre.com

Follow me on Social Media:

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Sound credits: uppbeat.io/ and https://pixabay.com/

In this second part of our Angola travel series, André takes you on an unforgettable tour of Angola’s natural wonders and hidden landmarks. Discover the majestic Kalandula Waterfalls, the impressive Tundavala Gorge, and the iconic Serra da Leba mountain pass – all must-see sights for any visitor.

You will meet João, a passionate local tour operator, who is on a mission to share Angola’s magic with the world. He tells us about Angola’s cultural heartbeat: the rhythms of Kizomba and Semba, and the vibrant Angolan Carnival. We also hear about the mystical Pedras Negras de Pungo Andongo, and how the fearless Queen Nzinga is still admired today.

If you're looking for unspoiled landscapes, authentic culture, and off-the-beaten-path African adventures, this episode is an initial guide to traveling in Angola.

Deutsch: Du kannst diesen Podcast auch auf Deutsch hören: “Africa with André auf Deutsch”

** Please tell your friends about this podcast, and leave me a rating on Spotify or Apple. I would love to hear from you - send me your questions, comments and ideas to podcast@africawithandre.com **

Serra da Leba: https://welcometoangola.co.ao/en/directorio/serra-da-leba/

Tundavala Gap: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tundavala_Gap

The Muila People: https://www.101lasttribes.com/tribes/muila.html

Ndalatando Botanical Garden: https://welcometoangola.co.ao/en/directorio/centro-botanico-do-kilombo/

Porcelain Rose: https://worldsensorium.com/angola/

Kalandula Waterfall: https://edition.cnn.com/travel/kalandula-falls-angola

Pedras Negras: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Black_Rocks_at_Pungo_Andongo

Baia dos Tigros: https://angola-tourism.com/baia-dos-tigres/

Lubango: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lubango

Around Lubango: https://edition.cnn.com/travel/lubango-angola-destination

O Pensador: https://www.hoteisangola.com/en/conheca-nosso-pensador.html

Musicians:

Paulo Flores: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paulo_Flores

and on Spotify:

Join André as he visits Angola, a raw and authentic corner of Africa, ready to reveal its secrets.

In this first of two episodes, André explores the vibrant capital Luanda, the cooler highlands of Lubango, and Angola’s complex history - from the ancient African kingdoms, the colonial era, the Civil War, and the period of re-building since then.

We meet local tourism professionals, including Irene, Pepe, and Richard, who share their insights on Angola’s people, diverse cultures, and landscapes—from the source of the Okavango to the striking Namibe Desert.

Whether you’re a curious adventurer, a cultural explorer, or a tourism professional, this episode offers interesting insights into Angola’s potential as a must-visit African destination.

Deutsch: Du kannst diesen Podcast auch auf Deutsch hören: “Africa with André auf Deutsch”

** Please tell your friends about this podcast, and leave me a rating on Spotify or Apple. I would love to hear from you - send me your questions, comments and ideas to podcast@africawithandre.com **

Luanda: https://welcometoangola.co.ao/en/directorio/o-que-fazer-em-luanda/ and https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Luanda

National Slavery Museum: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Museum_of_Slavery

Viewpoint of the Moon “Miradouro da Lua”: https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/miradouro-da-lua-viewpoint-of-the-moon

Lubango: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lubango

Giant Sable Antelope: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Giant_sable_antelope

Operation Noah’s Ark: https://mg.co.za/article/2003-05-31-operation-noahs-ark/

Iron Palace in Luanda: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pal%C3%A1cio_de_Ferro and https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/the-iron-palace-luanda-angola

Pure & Authentic Tourism Angola: https://www.pa-angola-tourism.com/

Kleber Group: https://klebergroup.com/

Diamir: https://www.diamir.de/

ASR – Alliance of Independent Travel Companies (Germany): https://asr-berlin.de/

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