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

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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Instagram:

It’s probably something you wouldn’t have thought to do – but do yourself a favour and book a Cycle Tour through Soweto, near Johannesburg.

We chat with Maria Malepa from Lebo’s Backpackers & Cycle Tours about why this vibrant, historic part of South Africa deserves a deeper look.

Maria shares the inspiring story of her late husband Lebo, who turned a small homestay into a thriving community tourism hub. We discuss what makes Soweto unique, why cycling is the best way to experience it, and the unexpected moments—like being spontaneously invited to a wedding!

If you want to see the real South Africa, this episode is your starting point – it will help you really understand the amazing people. 🇿🇦🚴🏾

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 **

Lebo’s Backpackers & Cycle Tours: https://www.sowetobackpackers.com/activities/bicycle-tours/

Apartheid Museum: https://www.apartheidmuseum.org/

Hector Pietersen Memorial: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hector_Pieterson_Museum

South African Tourism – Gauteng province: https://south-africa.net/south-africa/gauteng/

Joburg Tourism: https://visit.joburg/Home/Home

Miriam Makeba: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Miriam_Makeba

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

How does a luxury train company give back to the communities it travels through? In this engaging follow-up conversation, André reconnects with Tiffany Vos-Thane, and we dive into Rovos Rail’s sustainability efforts—from using bamboo products and locally made amenities to cutting water use by 90% with custom-built vacuum toilets (yes, it’s fascinating!).

We also explore Rovos Rail’s ambitious journeys across 10 African countries, including pioneering trips into Angola and the challenges of navigating visas, corruption, and unpredictable rail lines.

If you love travel, adventure, and brilliant problem-solving, this episode is for you!

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 **

Rovos Rail: https://rovos.com/

Rovos Rail partners with these South African companies for their sustainability products:

Msulwa Life: https://msulwalife.co.za/

Katavi Botanicals: https://katavibotanicals.com/

Follow me on Social Media:

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

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

Facebook: www.facebook.com/africawithandre/

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