Podcast
Africa with André
Hosted by André Thomas · EN
"Africa with André" is a podcast where we "Celebrate Africa - One Story at a Time". With this podcast, I want to break down the misconceptions and misunderstandings that many people have about Africa – and to create a positive image of the continent.
Through interviews with partners and friends in tourism, we will listen to their stories: their experiences, their projects and about how they have made a difference in the lives of others.
I’ve worked in the Africa travel industry for over 25 years, and I’ve had many conversations over the years, both with guests and travel colleagues about spending time in Africa: what they expect it will be like, what they worry about. What their understanding and image of the continent is.
This podcast is not about giving you the normal tips of what to do – I am going to assume that you know that you will see Table Mountain when you’re in Cape Town. Rather, our conversations will highlight some of the goosebump moments you could have, and introduce potential new destinations to you.
I want to help you understand how a holiday in one of Africa’s 54 countries is something to be excited about, like a 5 year old is in the days before Christmas.
And just a quick note at the end: this is a project of love – not a job. I choose friends and partners that have stories which I find interesting and inspiring – and I hope you do too.
22episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
From “This Tastes Terrible” to World-Class Wine: The Journey of Ntsiki Biyela
3w ago00:26:22Tap to summarizeI sit down with Ntsiki Biyela, South Africa’s first Black female winemaker. A woman whose journey into wine started in the most unexpected way… by saying “yes” to an opportunity that had the power to change her life, and absolutely hating it after tasting it for the first time.We talk about what it feels like to enter an industry where you don’t see yourself represented, and the quiet (and sometimes not-so-quiet) challenges of being both Black and female in a traditionally white, male-dominated wine world. What stands out is Ntsiki’s perspective - grounded, honest, and often filled with humour. Whether it’s people assuming she couldn’t possibly be the winemaker, or customers confidently explaining her own wines to her, she meets it all with a mix of grace and sharp insight.But this episode isn’t just about breaking barriers - it’s also about redefining wine itself.Ntsiki shares how she is making wine more relatable, especially for people who didn’t grow up with it. Instead of talking about “truffles” and “plum” she brings it back to something much more human: How does the wine make you feel? And through her involvement with the Pinotage Youth Development Academy, she’s helping young South Africans find their place in the wine and hospitality industry, and opening doors that once felt closed.We also talk about her own label, Aslina Wines - named after her grandmother - and the moment when she proudly shared her award-winning wine with her.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 **Aslina Wines: www.aslinawines.comPinotage Youth Development Academy: https://pyda.co.za/Follow me on Social Media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/africa_with_andreSubscribe to Email reminders when episodes go live: www.africawithandre.comSound credits: uppbeat.io/ and https://pixabay.com/
Transcribe →Meet an Angel from the Chobe National Park
Apr 100:21:31Tap to summarizeBroadcasting from the banks of the Chobe River in Botswana, I sit down with Lebo, one of the inspiring “Chobe Angels” at Chobe Game Lodge — home to Africa’s first all-female safari guiding team.We talk about her journey from a village near Gaborone to guiding in Chobe National Park, the realities of working in a traditionally male-dominated industry.Lebo shares honest stories about:The pressure guides face when guests expect “all the Big Five by tomorrow morning”, and the serious impact of off-roading and why protecting the ecosystem matters more than getting the perfect photo. She reminisces about guests cheering on a giraffe to outrun a lion, and the difficult but necessary reality of the “cycle of life” in the bush.This episode explores conservation, empowerment, guest expectations, and why protecting the ecosystem matters more than the perfect photo. It’s a powerful reminder that safari is not just about the animals — it’s about the people who dedicate their lives to protecting them.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 **Chobe Game Lodge: https://www.chobegamelodge.com/about-us/Follow me on Social Media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/africa_with_andreSubscribe to Email reminders when episodes go live: www.africawithandre.comSound credits: uppbeat.io/ and https://pixabay.com/
Transcribe →Little Rangers: Taking Your Kids on Safari in Africa
Mar 400:32:04Tap to summarizeCan you really take children on safari…?In this episode we explore the magic, and the practical realities, of taking children on safari. Where early wake-up calls meet endless curiosity, and where animal dung can be just as exciting as spotting a leopard.We talk honestly about: The right age to take kids on safari, private vehicles (sanity-savers for everyone), Malaria questions and how to balance family time and adult time.I’m joined by 3 guests:Lex, who shares what it’s like going on game drive with her own young children — including why seeing safari through a child’s eyes makes you notice the small things again.Laura, who tells us about South Africa’s iconic Sabi Sabi Reservenear the Kruger National Park, where kids can join game drives and dive into creative, hands-on bush education at the Elephant Centre — no screens, just spoor tracking and sand art.And finally, Manuela from Mziki Safari Lodge, tells us what happens when children build shelters, purify water, learn fire-making skills, and graduate as certified Junior Rangers.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 **Ultimate Safaris, Namibia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Big_Five_gameSomalisa Acacia Camp, Zimbabwe: https://africanbushcamps.com/experiences/somalisa-acacia/Sabi Sabi Bush Lodge, South Africa: https://www.sabisabi.com/lodges/bush-lodgeMziki Safari Lodge, South Africa: https://www.mziki.co.za/Follow me on Social Media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/africa_with_andreSubscribe to Email reminders when episodes go live: www.africawithandre.comSound credits: uppbeat.io/ and https://pixabay.com/
Transcribe →More than just the Big Five: Discovering the Magic of the Small, the Ugly and the Sexy
Feb 400:33:16Tap to summarizeThe 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 experiencesWhy birdwatching can be addictive, and how a “little brown job” might just steal your heartThe magic of mobile tented safaris in Botswana, where you travel lightly and leave only footprintsIt’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_gameLetaka Safaris: https://www.letakasafaris.com/Marabou Stork: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marabou_storkFollow me on Social Media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/africa_with_andreSubscribe to Email reminders when episodes go live: www.africawithandre.comSound credits: uppbeat.io/ and https://pixabay.com/
Transcribe →Succulents, Syndicates and Sanbona: The Surprising World of Plant Poaching
Jan 700:24:40Tap to summarizeWhat 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.comFollow me on Social Media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/africa_with_andreSubscribe to Email reminders when episodes go live: www.africawithandre.comSound credits: uppbeat.io/ and https://pixabay.com/
Transcribe →Why Foodies love Cape Town: Michi reveals his Insider Tips
Dec 300:22:04Tap to summarizeSouth 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.comMichi 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/Follow me on Social Media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/africa_with_andreSubscribe to Email reminders when episodes go live: www.africawithandre.comSound credits: uppbeat.io/ and https://pixabay.com/
Transcribe →From Cichlids to Safaris: Why Malawi Might Be Africa’s Best-Kept Secret
Nov 500:36:35Tap to summarizeWhat 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: https://www.malawitourism.com/experiences/lake/- Senga Bay: https://www.malawitourism.com/regions/central-malawi/salima-senga-bay/- Nyika Plateau: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nyika_Plateau- Nyika National Park: https://www.malawitourism.com/regions/north-malawi/nyika-national-park/- Mandala House in Blantyre: https://societyofmw.org/the-mandala-house/- The Makokola Retreat: https://makokola.com/African Parks: https://www.africanparks.org/Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve: https://www.africanparks.org/the-parks/nkhotakota/visit-nkhotakotaKasungu National Park: https://www.malawitourism.com/regions/central-malawi/kasungu-national-park/Peace Parks: https://www.peaceparks.org/Moving 500 elephants in Malawi: https://www.nationalgeographic.com/photography/article/500-elephants-move-malawi-africa-video-spd Cichlids – article about Lake Malawi: https://www.smithsonianmag.com/science-nature/mystery-lake-malawi-180971442/ Idi Amin and the expulsion of Asians from Uganda: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Expulsion_of_Asians_from_UgandaThe Musician and Poet - Q Malewezi: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Qabaniso_MaleweziThe Malawian Comedian from Britain’s Got Talent (and more): Daliso Chapondahttps://dalisochaponda.com/ and https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WqUDzfjuGbg Nsima Pap Recipe – how to make Malawi’s traditional food: https://orantcharitiesafrica.org/learn-to-make-nsima-malawis-staple-food/ Follow me on Social Media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/africa_with_andreSubscribe to Email reminders when episodes go live: www.africawithandre.comFacebook: www.facebook.com/africawithandre/Sound credits: uppbeat.io/ and https://pixabay.com/
Transcribe →How elephants turned a Swiss banker's life upside down
Oct 100:22:59Tap to summarizeIn 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.comFollow me on Social Media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/africa_with_andreSubscribe to Email reminders when episodes go live: www.africawithandre.comSound credits: uppbeat.io/ and https://pixabay.com/
Transcribe →Mary’s Personal Journey against the Patriarchy in Africa
Sep 1000:21:02Tap to summarizeIn 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:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/africa_with_andreSubscribe to Email reminders when episodes go live: www.africawithandre.comSound credits: uppbeat.io/ and https://pixabay.com/
Transcribe →Sights & Sounds of Angola: our Experiences of her Impressive Nature and Lively Rhythm
Aug 2000:27:45Tap to summarizeIn 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_GapThe 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-angolaPedras Negras: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Black_Rocks_at_Pungo_AndongoBaia dos Tigros: https://angola-tourism.com/baia-dos-tigres/ Lubango: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/LubangoAround Lubango: https://edition.cnn.com/travel/lubango-angola-destinationO Pensador: https://www.hoteisangola.com/en/conheca-nosso-pensador.htmlMusicians:Paulo Flores: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paulo_Floresand on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/13y1zLuj38wQ2HtSSMa13M Yuri da Cunha: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yuri_da_CunhaAnd on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/5Qw3RHD3R95D98alngBJOZ 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/Follow me on Social Media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/africa_with_andreSubscribe to Email reminders when episodes go live: www.africawithandre.comSound credits: uppbeat.io/ and https://pixabay.com/
Transcribe →