In this episode, we are featuring repeat guest Tim Tetzlaff, Naples Zoo's Director of Conservation. Tim joins us to share details about an exclusive, once-in-a-lifetime luxury safari experience that blends world-class accommodations with impactful conservation efforts. From stargazing under Namibia’s breathtaking night skies to up-close encounters with giraffes in Botswana, this meticulously curated adventure offers unparalleled access to wildlife, culture, and philanthropy. This is the ultimate bragging rights trip to Africa, with only ten spots available. Check out the full itinerary below under “Resources” or call Theresa at 239-777-0253 or email her at theresa.perez@cruiseplanners.com.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[1:21] Tim announces an exclusive experience for ten lucky travelers. A luxury safari to Namibia and Botswana
[8:22] The population of giraffes has diminished, and they are working toward conservation
[12:25] Off to the Skeleton Coast as seen in National Geographic and a drive up the coast
[16:14] Tim discusses the technology that tracks the giraffe population and the extraordinary nights under the Milky Way
[20:56] Visiting the Indigenous culture and seeing a herd of giraffes up close and personal and description of luxury suites
[27:16] Don’t miss this exclusive experience for a luxury safari open to only 10 travelers. Check out the full itinerary below under “Resources” or call Theresa at 239-777-0253 or email her at theresa.perez@cruiseplanners.com

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

The Naples Zoo, in collaboration with the Giraffe Conservation Foundation, has created a bespoke luxury safari to Namibia and Botswana. This is not a typical commercial safari—it offers unparalleled access to leading conservationists actively working to protect giraffes.
Despite their towering presence in the African landscape, giraffe populations are quietly declining. Due to habitat loss, poaching, and regional conflicts, there is only one giraffe for every three to four elephants. The Giraffe Conservation Foundation works to reverse this trend through habitat protection and translocation efforts.
Participants will experience unparalleled access to Africa’s wildlife and cultures, from stargazing in Namibia’s pristine skies to meeting the indigenous Himba community. The itinerary also includes a helicopter transfer to the newly opened Tawana Lodge, offering an untouched safari experience in the Okavango Delta.

RESOURCES:

Journey Among Giants Full Itinerary and Details

Luxury Travelers - Podcast

Luxe Travel - Website

Luxe Travel - Facebook

Luxe Travel - Instagram

Naples Zoo - Website

Tim Tetzlaff - LinkedIn

GUEST BIOGRAPHY:

As Naples Zoo's Director of Conservation, Tim Tetzlaff coordinates Naples Zoo’s field conservation efforts, fully funding the annual salaries of twenty-seven field staff in seven countries. His other leadership roles include Chair of the Madagascar Fauna and Flora Group since 2018 - and Naples Zoo serves as the international headquarters of this global consortium. He is on the Board of Directors for the Giraffe Conservation Foundation and is President of the Florida Association of Zoos and Aquariums. Tetzlaff previously served on various conservation-oriented committees for the International Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), including being a member of one of their key international delegations.