In this episode, I’m joined by Kristina Plattner, the managing director of Kamba Rainforest Experiences, a groundbreaking eco-tourism initiative deep in the heart of the Republic of Congo (ROC). Kristina shares her fascinating journey from growing up in the hospitality world of South Africa to creating immersive travel experiences in one of the world’s last great rainforests. Her passion for conservation, community engagement, and storytelling shines as we talk about how Kamba connects travelers with the lush, biodiverse environment of the Congo Basin—a region few tourists have explored but which holds incredible ecological and cultural significance. From tracking western lowland gorillas and forest elephants to collaborating with local guides and Ba’Aka communities, Kamba is all about meaningful, ethical, and unforgettable encounters.
We also dive into the realities of running a responsible tourism business in such a remote, logistically challenging region. Kristina discusses the balance between luxury and sustainability, the importance of respecting local traditions, and the vision for Kamba to become a leader in regenerative travel across Central Africa. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or dreaming of going off-grid for the first time, this episode will open your eyes to the beauty and potential of the Republic of Congo as a premier destination for nature and culture lovers alike. If you’re seeking untamed wilderness, rare wildlife encounters, and a chance to travel with purpose, this conversation will both inspire and inform.
We discuss:
✅ What makes Kamba Rainforest Experiences unique
✅ How Kristina fell in love with the Congo and transitioned from hospitality in South Africa to jungle adventures in the ROC
✅ Gorilla trekking, forest safaris, and cultural immersion with local communities
✅ The challenges and rewards of running an eco-tourism initiative in remote Central Africa
✅ Why the ROC is an off-the-beaten-path travel gem worth discovering now
🌍 Whether you're a curious traveller, conservation enthusiast, or looking to visit lesser-known destinations in Africa, this episode will inspire your next adventure.
Kamba Links
Kamba Rainforest Experiences - https://kambaafrica.com/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/kamba.africa/
Timestamps
00:00 Introduction
02:29 Tina Plattner's Journey and Background
09:17 The Founding of Kamba African Rainforest Experiences
11:40 Understanding the Republic of Congo
16:25 Exploring Otsala Kukua National Park
20:06 Wildlife Encounters and Gorilla Tracking
23:05 Adventure Packages and Guest Experiences
27:11 Sustainability Practices and Community Impact
29:24 Gorilla Tracking and Wildlife Interactions
31:07 Conservation Efforts and Local Communities
34:27 Empowering Local Guides and Education
36:24 The Shift in Travel Mindset
38:25 Budgeting for Unique Experiences
40:14 Why Choose Kamba for Your Adventure?
43:22 Exploring Beyond the Rainforest
46:08 Cost of Living and Travel in the Republic of Congo
48:05 The Allure of the Untouched Wilderness
50:29 Connecting with Kamba: Booking Your Journey
--------------------------------------------------------------
Voyascape: Travel Podcast Network - https://voyascape.com/
Winging It Travel Podcast - Website
Please leave a review and rating wherever you get your podcasts!
--------------------------------------------------------------
Winging It Travel Podcast Credits
Host/Producer/Creator/Composer/Editor - James Hammond
Contact me - jameshammondtravel@gmail.com
Social Media - follow me on:
Instagram
TikTok
Facebook
--------------------------------------------------------------
Support My Podcast - Memberships
Patreon - Here
Buy Me A Coffee - Here
Affiliate Links
If you click one of the below to book something, I get a tiny commission, which helps the podcast.
Book Flights with Skyscanner - Here
Use Revolut Travel Card - Here
Book Your E-Sim With GigSky - Here
Book Hostels With Hostelworld - Here
Booking.com - Here
Book Experiences With Viator - Here
Discovery Car Hire - Here
Book Buses With Busbud - Here
Book Trains With Trainline - Here
Travel Insurance with SafetyWing - Here
Book Flights With Expedia Canada - Here
Buy my Digital Travel Planner - Here
--------------------------------------------------------------
Thanks for supporting me and the podcast!
Cheers, James.
Mentioned in this episode:
Check out the Smart Travel Podcast
This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:
Smart Travel Podcast
Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around the world
This podcast is part of Voyascape, a podcast network that brings together the world's best travel podcasts. You can find all of our podcasts from around the world at Voyascape.com.
If you are interested in advertising or sponsored content on any of our shows you can find out more at the link below.
Voyascape Podcast Network
