Richard Pfaffli is an adventurer who fell in love with Africa. In 2003, while working in Germany, he decided he wanted to return to Africa. He purchased a specialized four x four overland vehicle and modified it for his expedition. Equipped with a rooftop tent, a 35-liter fridge, two fuel tanks, and specialist tires, Richard embarked on an 18-month journey from London to Cape Town and back, driving through 25 African countries. Using his off-road vehicle and rooftop tent, Richard and his team were able to explore parts of Africa that are often difficult for tourists to access. They spent time with local families, camped in villages after obtaining permission from the local chieftains, and experienced the true African way of life. Richard was captivated by the mesmerizing Mali and the stunning coast of Senegal, which he considers the most beautiful in Africa. Spending up to three to four weeks in each country, Richard deeply immersed himself in the cultures, explored national parks, and visited as many local villages as possible. This life-changing journey had a profound impact on Richard and shaped the path for his future adventures.Today on The Intrepid Traveler: Timestamped overview00:00:44 Love for Africa led to life-changing journey.00:03:40 Passionate explorer sets up exclusive travel company.00:06:56 Successful Travelers business led by Diane Fosse's team.00:13:01 Conservation success depends on tourism dollars.00:17:39 Sustainability and conservation go hand in hand.00:20:05 Luxury lodges in Rwanda give back.00:22:59 Guides ensure safe gorilla tracking experience.00:28:25 Historian knows ancient kingdom, genocide survivors thrive.00:29:40 Felt strongly about visiting Auschwitz Birkenau.Key topics from this episode- Importance of sustainability- Sustainability and conservation efforts go hand in hand- Green and sustainable lodges and accommodations to support conservation- Ecotourism and increasing mountain gorilla numbers- Ecotourism contributes to the increase in mountain gorilla population- Numbers have gone from 500-600 to over 1000- Gorilla tracking in Rwanda- Process of tracking with specialist guides and rangers- Inside tips, camera usage, and safety precautions- Tracking duration and the excitement of making contact with gorillas- Understanding Rwanda's history and the impact of the genocide- Story of Prosper, the director of Volcanoes National Park, who lost his family during the genocide- Importance of visiting the Genocide MemorialThanks for joining us on today’s episode of The Intrepid Traveler podcast! If you enjoyed today’s episode, please rate and review our show to help us reach even more aspiring travelers. Don’t forget to check out our website, visit us on Facebook, Instagram or follow us on LinkedIn to stay up-to-date on our latest epic travel adventures! Use the following links when planning your own travel!TRAVEL INSURED INTERNATIONALMEDJETVIRTUOSOPROJECT EXPEDITION