Leave our world a better place (andBeyond)

Isaac Tembe, Head of Methodology, Monitoring & Evaluation at Wild Impact (previously known as Africa Foundation) speaks about the elements required for a successful community development project and explains how travellers can get involved and make a difference. Find out about how Wild Impact's model had been adapted to run projects throughout Africa and what plans they have for the future. For more about Wild Impact.

Find out all about Punakha River Lodge, &Beyond’s new home-away-from-home in the kingdom of Bhutan. &Beyond Asia Managing Director Suhail Gupta talks about the challenges encountered and overcome during the building of the lodge. Renowned travel writer Gisela Williams shares warm and poignant memories from her first trip to Bhutan and delves deeper into the country’s unusual model of tourism. &Beyond Sales & Touring COO Ryan Powell describes the emotions of being one of the first visitors to Punakha River Lodge and expands on how &Beyond plans to make a difference in local communities. 

Travel specialist Melanie Dannhauser eliminates the mystique surrounding family travel to Africa. She answers frequently asked questions, from the best destinations and times to travel to how to keep your little ones busy and at what age your children can first go on a game drive. In between, she shares heartwarming stories about how travel has changed the course of both her family’s life and those of others. Find out how to create an African travel itinerary that includes something for every member of the family. Find out more about Melanie’s experiences as a Travel Specialist. View &Beyond’s specially tailored family itineraries in South Africa and Kenya.

Thulani Mbazini is an inspirational individual who has worked at andBeyond Phinda Private Game Reserve for thirteen years. He started out as a contractor in the habitat team; clearing alien vegetation and working on the reserve. He then studied and qualified to become a professional tracker, a role he delighted in for almost nine years. He always had his heart firmly set on becoming a guide at andBeyond Phinda Forest Lodge; and now, as an established guide within the team at andBeyond Phinda, Thulani has a remarkable story to tell. 

What does it take to rescue a pangolin from the dark underworld of the illegal wildlife trade, stabilise it, rehabilitate it and then successfully release it back into the wild? A panel of pangolin experts takes us behind the scenes for a rare glimpse of a pangolin’s journey from rescue to release, beginning with the undercover sting operations during which many of these animals are rescued. Discover the painstaking journey of rehabilitation from often life-threatening injuries or neglect and find out about the meticulous monitoring that happens during and after the pangolin’s release into the wild. Hosted by Les Carlisle with Raymond Jansen, Nicci Wright, Leno Sierra, and Charli de Vos.

What does it take to convert an interest in your environment into the beginning of a lifelong career in conservation or wildlife management? Find out about the innovative programme being run at &Beyond Phinda Private Game Reserve which is offering young members of surrounding communities the opportunity for the type of hands-on knowledge and skills development that can help launch a career. 

Reserve Manager Simon Naylor speaks about the Phinda Community Conservation and Research Skills Development Course, designed to empower rural youths to pursue a career in wildlife, conservation management, or tourism. Listen as he speaks about the reasons for the development of the course, details some of the training involved, and speaks about the conservation initiatives at &Beyond Phinda Private Game Reserve. 

Trainee Sibongiseni Sithole proves a behind-the-scenes glimpse of his experiences on the course, how it had changed him and what are his hopes for the future.

Find out more about the Phinda Community Conservation and Research Skills Development Course. Discover more about the &Beyond Phinda Private Game Reserve, where the course is being run.

&Beyond Phinda Private Game Reserve Manager Simon Naylor talks about wildlife management techniques and what it means to be responsible for the day to day running of a private game reserve in Africa. Find out why game reserves need to be managed in the modern world and join us for a behind-the-scenes look into the challenges and successes experienced while running a world-class Big Five game reserve.

Links:
Simon is the Reserve Manager at &Beyond Phinda Private Game Reserve. Watch videos about &Beyond Phinda Private Game Reserve. Find out how you can visit and get involved in the conservation work at &Beyond Phinda Private Game Reserve on the Phinda Impact Journey. Read about the conservation team at &Beyond Phinda Private Game Reserve and their work in &Beyond’s online Bateleur Magazine. Book a virtual chat with Simon to find out more about rhino conservation at &Beyond Phinda Private Game Reserve.

After 70 years of extinction, jaguars are once again roaming free in Argentina’s Iberá Wetlands. Sebastian Di Martino from Rewilding Argentina speaks about the role of his organisation and describes the six-year process that led to the release of the animals. He details the threats and the challenges faced by jaguar in Argentina, as well as the lessons learned from conservation and translocation projects in Africa.

Tara Getty, &Beyond shareholder and trustee of Wild Impact (previously known as Africa Foundation), speaks about his enduring love affair with Africa. From his early years working at &Beyond (then Conservation Corporation) to the home he has created near &Beyond Phinda Private Game Reserve. Listen to him reminisce about the early years at &Beyond Phinda, speaking about the development of &Beyond’s unique business model and the growth of Africa Foundation, which has recently been renamed to Wild Impact to highlight its increasingly global role. Find out how the communities surrounding Phinda have changed over 25 years and the role that Tara has played. Find out about his dedication to caring for land and marine environments and his passion for the oceans through Oceans Without Borders, and listen to his views on ecotourism and his plans for the future.

Vernon Swanepoel, Activities Manager at &BEYOND Sossusvlei Desert Lodge speaks about the wonders of the night sky in the Namib Desert, exploring the magic that stargazing holds for guests. Find out how the lodge’s observatory came into being and get to know a little about the resident astronomers who helps travellers unravel what is written in the stars.

Toby Sinclair from &Beyond Asia talks about his love affair with India’s rivers, describing their ever-changing landscapes and the traces of India’s culture and history that can be found along their banks. Find out about the birds and wildlife that can be spotted from a riverboat cruise in India and discover more about the Iconic Brahmaputra River Cruise.

Lebogang Matlakala, Future Leaders Program Manager for Wild Impact (previously known as Africa Foundation) is a paradox. A girl who grew up in the dry and dusty interior of South Africa who is an avid diver and oceanographer. An impressive academic and public speaker who advocates for simple and effective communication of complex issues to local communities. A mentor and inspiration for others who remains thoroughly grounded and humble. Listen to her tell her story of personal growth and community development as she literally and figuratively learns to swim with sharks, whether in the depths of the Indian Ocean or among the big fish of the scientific community. 

Dr Andrew Venter, CEO of Wild Impact (previously known as Africa Foundation) looks back at 30 years of the NGO’s achievements and highlights the key successes of the past years. Find out what changes have taken place in the past three decades and discover what new projects are to come. Share the excitement of the spirit and vision that will drive Wild Impact ahead for decades to come.

andBeyond Conservation Manager Les Carlisle shares 40 years' worth of stories, from wildlife translocation successes to challenges and close calls. Tune in for stories about rhino translocations, caring for endangered species and setting up one of South Africa's most successful private game reserves, all told with humour, enthusiasm and passion.

Phinda conservation manager, Simon Naylor, has been based at andBeyond Phinda Private Game Reserve for 16 years, and he has an immeasurable wealth of knowledge and expertise when it comes to conservation and management of lions. In this podcast we focus on the successes and challenges of lion conservation and management in private, fenced reserves like andBeyond Phinda, but we delve into an abundance of other topics such as the importance of lions in their ecosystems, their conservation status across Africa and Asia, the challenges facing lions as a species, and why it is crucial that we continue to protect them 

Jules Harding from award-winning South African band GoodLuck chats about what it was like playing their first live gig in the African bush at &Beyond Phinda Private Game Reserve. Find out about the thrills and challenges of sensitively setting up a concert in the midst of an ancient sand forest, and hear about the natural inspirations behind the band’s trademark sound. Discover what the band learned about wildlife management and conservation, and hear their impressions of being involved in the release of an endangered pangolin. Listen to Jules speak about the challenges the music industry has faced as a result of Covid-19 and find out what’s next for her and the band.

&Beyond guests, Laura Cicerale and Michael Screnci reminisce about their African honeymoon, from the beginning stage of choosing a destination, planning, and research to the end result – an unforgettable adventure to mark the beginning of their married life. Listen to their tips and advice, and find out why they recommend working with a travel planner with real-life destination knowledge. Laura and Michael honeymooned at &Beyond Bateleur Camp.

Nonhlanhla Ambrose talks about the Hustle Economy Programme run by Wild Impact (previously known as Africa Foundation) and how it is empowering young people and women in South Africa’s rural areas not only to make a living but to plan for a brighter future. Find out about this innovative project, which equips young ‘hustle-preneurs’ with the skills and insight to turn their dreams into reality, earning not only profits but also the respect and recognition of their communities. Warm your heart with success stories from the pilot project in KwaZulu-Natal and find out what’s in store for the future as Wild Impact plans to take the initiative live throughout Africa. 

Find out more about the relationship between &Beyond and Wild Impact. Read about Wild Impact’s vision and impact. Find out more about the Hustle Economy Programme or make a donation. Discover more about &Beyond Phinda Private Game Reserve.

What does the future hold for tigers in India? Toby Sinclair from &Beyond Asia speaks about how wildlife conservation has developed and changed on the subcontinent over 40 years, from the establishment of the first tiger reserves to the growing successes of Project Tiger. Discover what new and thrilling wildlife discoveries are being made throughout the region. Find out what ecotourism means in India and what role it has to play in the future of wildlife conservation.

William de Jager, manager of &Beyond Phinda Homestead, talks about what makes a sole-use safari lodge such a great travel option. Find out how the team at &Beyond Phinda Homestead takes hospitality to a new level, ensuring a tailor-made experience for travellers of all ages. Learn more about the lodge’s exceptional design, from the layout, which was done with guest comfort in mind, to the many interior design features that pay homage to the culture of its Zulu setting. Find out about the sustainability factors that ensure the Homestead leaves a light footprint on the environment and discover the touching memorial feature incorporated in its rebuild. Read more about &Beyond Phinda Homestead.

In this podcast, we chat to andBeyond Group Sustainability Manager, Jonathan Braack, and architect, Jack Alexander, about sustainability in the design and rebuild of the new andBeyond Grumeti Serengeti River Lodge. We hear about Jack’s inspiration for the new lodge, and learn about what sustainability in lodge design actually means in terms of architectural choices, building materials, overall design, and environmental considerations. We also chat to Jonathan about the inclusion of new, exciting sustainable practices in energy and water consumption, and waste management, which are now integral to the running and success of andBeyond Grumeti Serengeti River Lodge.

Andrea Perez Hoyos, the Creative Director of Adriana Hoyos, talks about being the team selected to work on the innovative design of the Galapagos Explorer, &Beyond’s first expeditions yacht. Find out how the unique beauty of the Galapagos served as inspiration and hear about the unusual elements that the team incorporated to create an authentic sense of place. Andrea describes the challenges of maintaining a sense of luxury and exclusivity while also keeping the design practical and functional.

It takes a village to save a rhino and what can’t be achieved by a single organisation becomes possible when working together. This engaging panel discussion happened on World Rhino Day 2020. The future of rhino brought together a seasoned group of conservationists, each of who applied their insight, learnings and scientific approach to the complex issue of the poaching of this iconic species. There is no single strategy to solve the complexities of the long-standing poaching threat, however, when one combines the expertise and passion of a seasoned group of rhino conservationists, a ground shift comes ever closer. Hosted by Andrew Parker with Lee-Anne Yammin, Dr Jacques Flamand, Simon Naylor, Dr Dave Cooper, Dereck & Beverly Joubert, Isaac Tembe, and Elise Serfontein.

Follow in the footsteps of Toby Sinclair’s journey from England to India exploring some of the world’s least accessible destinations. 

&Beyond CMO Nicole Robinson and Dale Forbes, Head of Strategic Business Development at SWAROVSKI OPTIK, talk about the shared values that brought together the African-based luxury travel brand and the Austrian manufacturer of quality binoculars. Find out how the two worked to develop the recently launched limited edition birding itineraries, which span destinations as diverse as Bhutan, Sri Lanka, South Africa, Botswana, and Ecuador. Discover how specialist guides help to combine some of the world’s best-known birding destinations with exceptional travel experiences that will appeal not only to birding fanatics, but to their travel enthusiast partners too.   

Get an overview of our limited edition birding itineraries.

&Beyond CEO, Joss Kent looks back on nine years spent at the helm of the conservation-led travel company, building on its vision to leave the world a better place. He describes the magic that happens when an unshakeable sense of purpose comes together with the financial discipline and planning necessary for long-term sustainability. Find out about the sound business decisions necessary to achieve true sustainability and listen to practical tips and hints for business leaders seeking to drive sustainable goals. Learn more about how &Beyond’s strong sense of purpose has made the business resilient in spite of the impacts of Covid-19.

Having worked in some of the world’s most remote and challenging destinations, from the Namib Desert to the mountains of Bhutan and the plains of the Serengeti, Chris Browne and Debra Fox share their insights into creating modern designs that blend into rather than overwhelm their setting. Listen to tales of how to overcome the challenges of working in the wild, from flooded work sites to hijacked trucks and hyenas with a penchant for leather furniture!

Heli pilot and Director of Tropic Air Helicopters, Ben Simpson, shares his experiences of flying above Africa, from creating exhilarating experiences for travellers to shooting natural history documentaries in remote destinations and translocating elephants and gorillas for conservation initiatives. Listen to him speak about his adventurous career and describe his latest helicopter routes in Tanzania.

Dr Raghu Chundawat talks about tiger conservation in India, from the inception of Project Tiger in the 1970s to the threats and challenges facing India’s tiger population 50 years on and his hopes for the future. Find out why tiger reserves were established in India almost 50 years ago and how they work. Learn about the successes of Project Tiger and what they have meant for the conservation of other species in India, as well as the new set of threats and challenges facing tigers. In between, enjoy personal stories and anecdotes from one of India’s premier conservation biologists and tiger experts.

For conservation to be successful, it is essential for game reserves to secure the buy-in of rural communities. Learn about how conservation models can be set up so as to benefit those living directly around the world’s remaining wild places.

The prospect of travelling might sound intimidating right now, with shifting Covid restrictions and a lot of conflicting information muddying the water. But, for those of us who yearn for the pure joy that came with days of unencumbered exploration, it can also be extremely rewarding provided that you take all the required precautions. &Beyond guest, Sherry Potter describes her experience travelling during Covid, including the warm welcomes and the precautions taken to ensure her safety, as well as the help she received from her travel specialist in managing all necessary requirements.

Born and raised along Mozambique’s tropical coastline, a passion for the ocean runs in Leo Gungulo’s veins. Follow his story from scuba instructor to marine ranger at Vamizi Island and, ultimately, Field Operations Manager for Oceans Without Borders. Find out about the work being done on Africa’s eastern coastline and discover the world of Africa’s marine caretakers, who combine a deep knowledge of the creatures of land and air with a scientific dedication to data collection and long hours of work alongside local communities. Find out more about Oceans Without Borders. Play your part in marine conservation and take the Oceans Without Borders pledge. Find out more about the destinations where Oceans Without Borders operates - &Beyond Benguerra Island, &Beyond Mnemba Island, and &Beyond Vamizi Island in the Quirimbas Archipelago.

Co-founders and editors of African magazine Anja Hanke and Jelena Moro talk about all things conservation and describe their experiences trekking gorillas in Rwanda. Find out about the threats to the survival of mountain gorillas, hear what is being done to ensure their survival and come along as Anja and Jelena describe their gorilla trekking adventure. 

Driven and passionate, Nancy Iraba is an eloquent advocate for any number of things – marine conservation, biodiversity preservation, access to the oceans, diving, woman power and so much more. As the Oceans Without Borders Project Manager at Mnemba Island off Zanzibar, she is also responsible for an initiative aimed at restoring the area’s precious coral reefs to their full glory. 

Listen as Nancy talks about her journey in marine conservation, talking about how her passion for the world’s oceans was slow to start and quick to grow. She describes the challenges of learning to dive, and speaks about the Community & Conservation team at Mnemba and describes how and why they chose to tackle a coral reef restoration project.

Find out more about &Beyond Mnemba Island: https://www.andbeyond.com/our-lodges/indian-ocean-islands/zanzibar/andbeyond-mnemba-island/

Read about the relationship between &Beyond and Oceans Without Borders: https://www.andbeyond.com/impact/coalitions/oceans-without-borders/

Discover more about this and other Oceans Without Borders projects: https://www.oceanswb.org/ 

Barry Mthembu has done it all. After starting in Phinda’s star-in-training programme back in 2003, he eventually went on to become a butler, camp manager, tracker, ranger, head ranger, and now he is Phinda’s Habitat Field Manager, a job which keeps him on his toes and very busy. Barry is a passionate advocate for conservation with local land custodians at its heart, and we chat to him about his background growing up in the communities near andBeyond Phinda, his journey with andBeyond, his day-to-day job as a reserve manager and community liaison, and his goals and hopes for conservation in this region going forward.

East Africa Regional Manager for Wild Impact (previously known as Africa Foundation) Crispo Ndembeka speaks about his background  as a medical doctor, describing how it motivated him to join the organisation and work towards improving the physical, social and emotional wellbeing of the region’s rural communities. Crispo describes Wild Impact’s work in Kenya and Tanzania, focusing on the provision of healthcare and describing their projects' impact during the Covid-19 pandemic. Listen as he describes the challenges faced by local communities and talks about his hopes and dreams of continuing to help overcome them in the future.

Marine scientist Ryan Daly and fisheries biologist JD Filmalter speak about the marine predator tagging project running in the Bazaruto Archipelago, explaining what species are targeted, how they are tagged and monitored, and what information is gathered. Discover how tracking the movements of the marine world’s top predators can lead to an enhanced understanding of their lifecycle and contribute towards the management of marine reserves along the entire coastline of Africa. Learn how you too can contribute towards the preservation of the world’s oceans by taking part in the Oceans Without Borders Marine Predator Tagging Expedition.

Toby Sinclair from &Beyond Asia speaks about how he got to know the rich natural diversity and cultural wonders of Sri Lanka. Listen to his personal recollections of working on wildlife documentaries. Find out about the filming of Disney’s charming Monkey Kingdom about the troops of macaque monkeys living among the ruins of the ancient city of Polonnaruwa. Discover a world of varied and unique wildlife, from leopards and elephants to whales and dolphins, as well as a plethora of amphibians, birds, and butterflies. Find out what comes next for Sir Lanka’s
wildlife and revel in a vivid and beautiful description of this exotic destination. Find out more about Sri Lanka. Read about how you can see the macaque troops made famous in The Monkey Kingdom.

What is the difference between working with communities and for them? Listen as Isaac Tembe, Head of Methodology, Monitoring & Evaluation for Wild Impact (previously known as Africa Foundation) describes creating a community development model that puts partnership, inclusivity and sustainability at its heart. Wild Impact works hand in hand with Africa’s rural communities, on projects identified by the communities themselves, ensuring that they are brought to a sustainable level before being handed over. Find out how the organisation defined a successful project model that could be applied across Africa and, now, even beyond. 
Links: For more about Wild Impact. The communities mentioned in the podcast are situated near &Beyond Phinda Private Game Reserve. 

The world’s largest migration of fish, South Africa’s annual Sardine Run features billions of sardines and all the accompanying marine predators, from dolphins and whales to sharks and sailfish, as well as dozens of marine bird species. Shark specialist and scuba diving guide Walter Bernardis from African Watersports talks about the Oceans Without Borders Marine Migration Expedition, which allows guests to experience the magnificent spectacle as the sardines form into tight shoals known as bait balls, prompting thrilling feeding frenzies. A highlight that deserves to be on any diver’s bucket list, find out what it’s like to experience this underwater migration.

Is Africa’s Big Five in danger of becoming the Big Four? Lions are one of Africa’s most iconic species and a drawcard for millions of tourists, however, lion populations have declined by 50% in the last 25 years. The species is now considered critically endangered. As apex predators, lions are critical not only as a key indicator of how well the entire ecosystem is doing, but also as a means of maintaining ecological balance.  Our panel of experts talks about the threats facing the species and describes some of the projects being undertaken to reverse the loss. Find out how conservationists throughout Africa are coming together to ensure the survival of the species.  

Watch a video of the live event. Find out more about the Lion Recovery Fund and the Lionscape Coalition. Find out more about &Beyond Phinda Private Game Reserve Conservation Manager Simon Naylor, featured in this podcast. 

Toby Sinclair from &Beyond Asia speaks about 25 years of filming nature and wildlife documentaries in India with the likes of David Attenborough and other noted filmmakers. Hear about memorable moments spent creating thrilling footage for Animal Planet, BBC, National Geographic and many others.

Damen Pheiffer is a specialist guide at andBeyond Phinda Private Game Reserve – a reserve that is close to his heart for many reasons. Listen in as we catch up with Damen and learn a little more about him, the events that brought him to Phinda, and hear some of his wild stories and wildlife experiences from his time as a guide. 

Peter Chadwick is a conservationist with a vast wealth of knowledge in both the marine and terrestrial worlds, ranging from law enforcement and reserve management, to conservation photography, wildlife ranger training and development, and even the intersection of conservation and human rights strategy and training. We chat to Peter about the world of marine rangers, the crucial role they play in protecting ecosystems, the challenges they face on a day-to-day basis, and what is being done to support these courageous men and women on the frontlines of conservation.

With their characteristic profile and gentle gaze, giraffes are one of Africa’s most iconic species. And yet, few people are aware that giraffe numbers have declined almost 30% over the past three decades. Julian Fennessy of the Giraffe Conservation Foundation talks about the challenges that come with dwindling wild habitat and increased human encroachment. Find out about the threats facing Africa’s gentle giants, as well as the lengths that scientists are prepared to go to in order to save the species. Discover the latest research into Africa’s giraffe species and find out about the challenges of translocating these unique animals. Celebrate World Giraffe Day on 21 June and find out how you can get involved.

Charli de Vos speaks about her role an ecological monitor at &Beyond Phinda Private Game Reserve, from responsibilities such as compiling cheetah ID kits to the joys of witnessing unexpected species interactions. Find out what it takes to work in conservation and hear how these vital researchers help make a difference to wildlife throughout Africa.

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Charli is an ecological monitor at &Beyond Phinda Private Game Reserve. Watch videos about &Beyond Phinda Private Game Reserve. Find out how you can visit and get involved in the conservation work at &Beyond Phinda Private Game Reserve on the Phinda Impact Journey. Read about the conservation team at &Beyond Phinda Private Game Reserve and their work in &Beyond’s online Bateleur Magazine. Book a virtual chat with Charli to find out more about the pangolin conservation project at &Beyond Phinda Private Game Reserve.

An elegant lodge with a rich history and a lush bushveld setting, Regional Manager Brendan Streak talks about the recent refurbishment of &Beyond Kirkman’s Kamp. Discover the fascinating story of the lodge’s namesake, Harry Kirkman, the cattle farmer who became one of South Africa’s foremost conservationists, and hear about how his memory has been preserved in the lodge’s updated design. Find out about the rich wildlife, unique setting and careful wildlife management practices that make Kirkman’s one of the Sabi Sand’s best loved classical safari lodges. For more about &Beyond Kirkman’s Kamp, the lodge is situated in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve.

Guide Damen Pheiffer speaks to Craig Sholto-Douglas, ecologist at &Beyond Phinda Private Game Reserve, about the research and monitoring, as well as the day-to-day conservation management that goes on at the reserve. Find out how cheetah populations are meticulously managed through the introduction of new bloodlines and hear about how and why rhino are dehorned to protect them from poaching. Celebrate the reversal of a local extinction with the pangolin reintroduction project and discover the link between local communities and conservation.

Links: Find out more about &Beyond Phinda Private Game Reserve. Join in a conservation-based safari that allows you to experience some of Phinda’s conservation initiatives at firsthand. Follow the story of some of the cheetahs most recently relocated to Phinda. Read more about the cheetah population at Phinda. Find out more about the project to reintroduce pangolins to KwaZulu-Natal. Read about the steps taken to protect rhinos from poachers through the practice of removing their horns. Find out the local communities that surround Phinda support rhino conservation. Read more about Phinda Ecologist Craig Sholto-Douglas.

What is it that has made the shy and secretive pangolin the world’s most trafficked mammal species? With few people around the world having ever seen one, why should we care about the conservation of this oddly charismatic species? Faced with a growing demand for their scales in Asia, as well as the multiple threats of habitat loss, the bushmeat trade, and their traditional use in African tribal dress and medicine, the world’s pangolins are in decline. Our panel of experts takes a look at the threats facing the species and discusses what pangolins mean to our environment. Hosted by Klara Glowczewska, with Les Carisle, Raymond Jansen, Nicci Wright, Lisa Hywood, Bruce Young, and Priyan Perera.  

&Beyond Conservation & Community Impact Director Tony Adams unravels the meaning of responsible travel and speaks about how tourism can help make a difference to the world’s wild places, their inhabitants, and the communities that surround them. He provides advice for travellers who seek to leave behind nothing but footprints, detailing what questions to ask to ensure that they are travelling with a responsible tourism company. Lastly, Tony provides some practical examples of how companies like &Beyond can help leave the world a better place. Read more about &Beyond’s impact initiatives. 

Part of an exquisite coral atoll off the east coast of Zanzibar, &Beyond Mnemba Island is known for its warm, clear waters and the abundance of marine life off its shores. Dive Centre Manager Chris Barfoot speaks about what divers and snorkelers can hope to experience in the balmy waters surrounding the island. Listen to him explain how the Mnemba Island team works with Oceans Without Borders to help preserve this magnificent environment. Beginners can hear about the tranquil underwater world that tempts so many Mnemba guests to take their first steps into scuba at the island’s PADI-accredited Dive Centre. Experienced divers will find out more about dive conditions, visibility and what marine species can be encountered while diving off Mnemba.

Have you ever wanted to know everything there is to know about cheetahs? These iconic big cats are one of Africa’s most important predators; playing a crucial role in all the ecosystems in which they are occur. Cheetahs have been extirpated from 90% of their range across Africa and Asia, but people like Vincent van der Merwe are working tirelessly to see the species rebound. In this podcast, we hear from Vincent on the history of cheetah and the challenges which are facing the species, as well as the importance of the species and the efforts being made to protect and conserve them. We also learn about the concept of metapopulations, and how this management strategy is crucial to bringing the world’s fastest cat back from the edge of extinction.

In September 2023, during Climate Week, we were joined by travel expert and writer Jessica Nabongo (our host) and panellists Amanda Ho (Regenerative Travel), Javier Arredondo (Virtuoso), Costas Christ (Sustainable Travel Pioneer), Tshewang Wangchuk (Bhutan Foundation) to discuss the power and agency that individual travelers have to turn the switches, move the dials, and catalyse positive change within the travel industry.

The goal of this event was to bring together industry experts, travelers, advocates, and to give listeners a toolkit of interesting information and important actionable points that will allow each of us to travel better tomorrow; taking ourselves from travelers to change makers.

The host and panellists discuss a variety of topics including what difficult questions should we be asking of our hotels or tour operators and how to go about asking them; the responsibility of different players within the travel ecosystem when it comes to making a positive impact; and ultimately how we can really make our travel count for good and bring about positive change. 

Diving among the shoals of the Sardine Run, following in footsteps of a translocation that brought a species back from local extinction or learning how an African conservation model helped saved a South American species - join in the celebration of &Beyond’s 30 year anniversary with a series of limited edition experiences. Listen to the extraordinary individuals who will be hosting these journeys describe what they will include and reminisce about the events that inspired them.

From white water rafting in Nepal to helping set up some of India’s first safari lodges, Toby Sinclair from &Beyond Asia talks about his experiences living and working in Asia 40 years ago. Find out about the diverse personalities who guided and inspired him as he set about learning the ropes in India.

Dr. Andrea Marshall is a co-founder of the Marine Megafauna Foundation and the principal scientist for their Threatened Species Programme, she’s also a National Geographic Explorer, owner and tour leader for Ray of Hope Expeditions, and the Champion of the Inhambane Seascape Hope Spot. This Hope Spot encompasses the Bazaruto Archipelago National Park in Mozambique, as well as much more of the surrounding waters and coastline. We chat to Andrea about a host of interesting subjects including her background and journey in marine science, the importance of marine megafauna and why they need to be conserved, the role of hope spots in protecting our oceans, and why collaboration in marine science is a key to success in conserving our seascapes.

What does it truly mean to give nature a chance? Is it enough for us simply not to interfere or is a more active approach required? &Beyond CEO Joss Kent talks about the meticulous planning and management that is necessary to drive the regeneration of the world’s wild places. 

How can the travel industry navigate the return of tourism while balancing growing environmental awareness with the demands of travellers starved for new destinations and experiences? Find out what themes and topics are truly important in sustainable travel and how both tour operators and travellers can help to drive genuine change.

Blessed with diverse landscapes, home to a multitude of cultures, and birthplace of a number of the world’s major religions, India has far more than just temples and tigers to offer. Toby Sinclair from &Beyond Asia takes us off the beaten path as he shares private glimpses of India’s lesser-known wonders, from ancient battlefields to marvels of natural history and unexpected details of a myriad ways of life. Discover the unexplored aspects of this fascinating Subcontinent and find out how to set up a voyage that will unravel its deepest secrets.

In conversation with writer and sustainability expert Juliet Kinsman, five voices across three continents came together to share tales of their unforgettable travel experiences to enlighten, enrich and inspire, with interconnected musings on a topic that has never been more vital.

Discover epic stories, epic adventures and epic solutions about how travel can make a positive impact. Listen now to discover how travel may not only be life-affirming, but authentic and yes, epic, as it leaves our world a better place.

&Beyond Social Media Specialist Josh van der Ploeg looks back at his career as a guide in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve, from his initial training course to his years at &Beyond Kirkman’s Kamp and the many research and travel opportunities that came his way. Find out how a childhood spent in Cape Town resulted in a love for the outdoors. Hear about a project to create an ID kit for leopards in the Sabi Sand led to a camera trapping adventure in the deserts of Saudi Arabia. Listen to Josh’s latest travel experiences and discover how years spent as a wildlife guide translate to a career in marketing.

It is more important than ever before for the safari travel industry to come together in order to support conservation. Explore the challenges and benefits of industry competitors working together towards a common goal and hear about successful examples of conservation coalition projects. 

Radio DJ Msizi James speaks about his journey with &Beyond and Wild Impact (previously known as Africa Foundation), from his romantic engagement at Private Game Reserve to becoming involved in conservation and community projects in and around Phinda Private Game Reserve. Listen to the story of how an intimate engagement experience in an open-air treehouse in the heart of a Big Five game reserve turned into a meeting of like minds and turned into a journey that would reveal the significance of conservation and how it can benefit rural communities. Find out about the Hustle Economy Program, which helps young rural youth create businesses in the informal sector and hear about pangolin conservation at &Beyond Phinda Private Game Reserve.

For more about &Beyond Ngala Tented Camp, where Msizi James stayed. Find out about Ngala Treehouse, where Msizi James got engaged. Read about the unusual white lions at &Beyond Ngala Private Game Reserve. For more information about &Beyond Phinda Forest Lodge. Find out about how to experience some of the community projects spoken about by Msizi James. Learn more about the pangolin conservation experiences available to guests at &Beyond Phinda Private Game Reserve.

From their place as part of the famous Big Five to tales of early explorers and even popular culture such as Disney’s Lion King, lions have enjoyed the title of Africa’s most iconic predator. Sought after by safari visitors from around the world, they are an important drawcard for the continent’s tourism industry. But the species is in dire danger, with lion populations having declined by 50% in just 25 years. Peter Lindsey, Director of the Lion Recovery Fund, speaks about the threats that have brought about this crisis, describing how they can be managed and what is being done to ensure the survival of the king of the beasts. Read more about the Lionscape Coalition here.

Mark Wheeler, &Beyond Regional M.D for Asia, South America & Business Development, shares insider tips about visiting the Galapagos Islands. The islands are truly different from any other place on earth in terms of geography, geology, biological diversity, endemic species, and scientific history. Mark explains how guests could follow in Darwin’s footsteps; whether to take a cruise or stay in a land camp; where to enjoy activities like snorkelling, diving, kayaking, and hiking; the best time of year to visit; and the exceptional wildlife protection offered by the Galapagos National Park.

What does it take to move 30 rhino across more than half the length of Africa? Simon Naylor, Conservation Manager at &Beyond Phinda Private Game Reserve speaks about translocating a Boeing 747 full of rhinos from South African to Rwanda to create a new breeding stronghold in Akagera National Park. Find out why the largest rhino translocation ever took place and what challenges it entailed, as well as where the rhino came from and what awaits them in their new home.

Skipper Mareja, Regional Human Resources Manager for &Beyond Botswana, talks about his experiences in tourism, from managing lodges in the Okavango Delta to making a difference in the lives of local communities. Discover what it’s like to run a brand new lodge in the Delta and the intricacies of working with tented camps that move every five days. Find out about the challenges faced by the communities living on the outskirts of one of the world’s best-known natural wonderlands, from wandering wildlife to lack of drinking water. Hear more about the projects being put into place to assist them.

Andrew Venter, CEO of Wild Impact (previously known as Africa Foundation) talks about the history of conservation in South Africa and the experiences that led him to take up his position at the helm of the community development organisation. Find out how Covid has affected the communities that Africa Foundation serves, and discover the shift in thinking that is taking place as a result of this and other events. Listen as Andrew details his goals and predictions for the future.

Andrew Campbell, CEO of the Game Rangers Association of Africa, talks about the crucial role played by the men and women who dedicate their lives to caring for the continent’s wild place. Find out about the specialist skills required to care for and maintain Africa’s biodiversity and ensure the conservation of its natural treasures, from game parks to marine reserves. Discover the threats and challenges that they face in the field and find out how you can help support the guardians of wild Africa.

Babysitting a pangolin might not have been part of the original job description for Phinda Ecological Monitor Charli de Vos, but it’s a role that she’s taken to with her whole heart. Charli tells us about the threats faced by this remarkable animal, the world’s most threatened wildlife species, including the use of its scales in traditional Asian and African medicine, as well as habitat loss and its role in traditional African culture. She describes the daily challenges, demands and triumphs of a conservation project aimed at bringing them back to South Africa’s KwaZulu-Natal province.

Charli is an ecological monitor at &Beyond Phinda Private Game Reserve. Watch videos about &Beyond Phinda Private Game Reserve. Find out how you can visit and get involved in the conservation work at &Beyond Phinda Private Game Reserve on the Phinda Impact Journey. Read about the conservation team at &Beyond Phinda Private Game Reserve and their work in &Beyond’s online Bateleur Magazine. Book a virtual chat with Charli to find out more about the pangolin conservation project at &Beyond Phinda Private Game Reserve. 

Formerly the Programme Manager for the Community Leaders Education Fund run by Wild Impact (previously Africa Foundation), Nonhlanhla is not only responsible for selecting the recipients of these tertiary education bursaries but often becomes a second mother to them. Having fulfilled a vital support role for many young people from rural Africa who are trying to build a brighter future, she shares her inspirational story of triumph over adversity.   

Everyone knows that holiday calories don’t count and sampling the local cooking is essential to any travel experience. But how do you deliver on this while keeping in mind healthy and sustainable options such as plant-based cooking, especially while based in a remote destination? Regional Executive Chef for &Beyond Botswana Murray Weakley talks about the food philosophy at &Beyond, explaining how food is kept healthy and sustainable while also retaining a hearty and decadent aspect. Find out how the lodges cater for vegans and vegetarians, as well as other dietary requirements, and discover how plant-based menus are being developed to satisfy even the most meat-loving guests.

Archie Voorspuy, manager of Suyian Conservancy, paints a picture of this wild and untamed part of Africa and the exceptional game viewing opportunities that it offers. Learn more about the Laikipia Plateau, where Suyian is situated, and find out about the rare and endangered species that make this region their home. Get a glimpse of how this working cattle ranch and wildlife conservancy operates, as well as what travellers to this secluded destination can hope to see and do.

Group Human Resources & Training Director Linda King speaks about the launch of the &Beyond Academy, an initiative three years in the making. Designed to empower &Beyond staff by allowing them to earn both internal and external qualifications while working, the Academy builds on a long-standing tradition of training and development, as well as a commitment to promoting from within. Now boasting certified training material, registered training schools, and accredited assessors, the &Beyond Academy brings formalised qualifications within the reach of each and every staff member. 

Cristián Saucedo, Wildlife Director at Rewilding Chile, introduces us to the country’s unique wildlife species, from the renowned puma and condor to the lesser known huemul and guanaco. He explains the importance of rewilding and describes the work done by Rewilding Chile, touching on how the organisation is carrying on the legacy of conservationists Kristine and Douglas Tompkins. Cristián also shares his thoughts about the similarities and differences between conservation in Africa and South America.

Founded in 1934, Rwanda’s Akagera National Park boasts a history as long and illustrious as some of the continent’s most renowned wildlife areas, yet it remains little known in a country that is much more famous for its gorilla trekking than it is for its only Big Five game reserve.

African Parks Regional Ops Manager for Rwanda Jes Gruner talks about Akagera’s diversity and natural beauty, tracking the park’s history since its establishment and through the ravages of Rwanda’s tumultuous past until it gained a new lease on life through a partnership between the Rwanda Development Board and African Parks. He explains how this relationship works and talks about the operational model that has been used to transform Akagera into one of Africa’s prime conservation success stories over the past 12 years, reminiscing about the wildlife translocations that have brought the Big Five back to Rwanda once again.

Find out more about &Beyond Phinda Private Game Reserve, where the translocated lions and rhino came from.

Read about the Return of the Lion Expedition, which allows travellers to follow in the footsteps of the lions relocated from &Beyond Phinda Private Game Reserve to Akagera National Park.

Listen to Simon Saitoti reflect on his rural Maasai childhood and how he persevered to become Masai Mara Project Officer for Wild Impact (then Africa Foundation) in Kenya. He describes how he combines his traditional Maasai life with a modern education and how he remains fully committed to improving the lives of his peers.

Links:

For more about Wild Impact.

The village in this episode is situated close to &Beyond Bateleur Camp and &Beyond Kichwa Tembo Tented Camp.

Creating lodges and travel experiences that are as warm, distinctive and unforgettable as they are themselves, the dynamic duo behind Fox Browne Creative share some of the experiences that have shaped their journey in the design word. Find out how their experiences have shaped their outlook and provided inspiration for their award-winning hospitality design around the globe.

Follow Chris and Debra’s journey with &Beyond:

&Beyond Ngala Private Game Reserve where Chris and Debra met and started working with &Beyond. They opened &Beyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge. Debra was in charge of running &Beyond’s Tanzania operation. They worked on &Beyond’s Botswana circuit. Were involved in the design of &Beyond’s India lodges. Visited South America in 2008 on a scouting mission when &Beyond wanted to expand there initially. &Beyond Sossusvlei Desert Lodge is Chris and Debra’s latest project with &Beyond.

While the link between COVID-19 and conservation may not be immediately obvious to many, the knock-on effects of the pandemic on Africa’s wild places and the communities that surround them is estimated to be immense. With Africa’s game reserves empty of tourists, where is the funding for their upkeep to come from? Our panel of experts brings their insights, learning and experiences to the table to highlight the economics of conservation and to discuss how best to care for the continent’s biodiversity while balancing the urgent needs of its rural populations. Links: Watch a video of the Live Event here; check for &Beyond’s next live event on a topic relating to sustainability and conservation here; book a virtual discussion on marine conservation and Hope Spots with panel member Tessa Hempson here.

John Corse, Managing Director of the Serengeti Ballooning Company, talks about the wonder and magic of soaring over one of the planet’s best-known landscapes in a hot air balloon. Hear John describe what it feels like to take off into an African sunset and find out why a balloon safari is a must on any wildlife adventurer’s bucket list. 

Bheki Ntuli, Regional Manager: Maputaland for Wild Impact (previously known as Africa Foundation), speaks about the changes he has seen in the rural communities in South Africa’s KwaZulu-Natal Province over the past 15 years. Listen as he recounts how he came to work near &Beyond Phinda Private Game Reserve and how he has helped grow a relationship between the reserve and its neighbours, including a change in attitudes towards conservation. Find out why it is vital for local people to see the benefits that flow from private game reserves and how &Beyond and Wild Impact work within this model.

Links:
For more about Wild Impact. The communities mentioned in the podcast are situated near &Beyond Phinda Private Game Reserve.

andBeyond Regional Guide Trainer Dux Mareja unravels the wildlife wonders of Botswana. Find out how the Chobe River in the north attracts abundant animal species, from vast numbers of buffalo to thronging herds of elephant. Discover the mysteries of Savute, whose life-giving channel and marsh fluctuate seemingly unrelated to the seasons. Learn about the varying faces of the Okavango Delta and find out how the flow and ebb of the delta waters influences the wildlife of this unique ecosystem. 

Pedro Barraza, &Beyond Managing Director for South America, shares insider tips about travelling in his native Chile, from the best places to eat, sleep and shop in his hometown of Santiago to the country’s best wineries, authentic adventures and off-the-beaten track experiences.

What is the secret behind creating just the right level of luxury for complete comfort? Find out how designers Fox Browne Creative combine the latest trends with classical design pieces, always keeping guest comfort top of mind. Hear about the inspiration behind their upcoming project in Bhutan, andBeyond Punakha River Lodge. 

In this second episode of a two-part series with &Beyond shareholders, Africa Foundation supporter Jessica Getty discusses her love for Africa, from her early days working as a chef at &Beyond Phinda Forest Lodge to deciding to make South Africa her family home. Discover her dedication to growing and developing staff members, and find out how she and her husband have contributed to the educational and healthcare needs of rural communities, even having a local school named after them. Find out about how her passion for conservation extended to the marine environment and what projects she and her family are involved in.

Find out more about &Beyond Phinda Private Game Reserve.