Group of people dining at a wooden table on a sandy beach at sunset with umbrellas and white curtains.

MEET THE WILD EARTH FAMILY

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WILDLY TALENTED + COMMITTED

“The wild reminds us that true journeys don't just cross landscapes, they shape who we are. Let's explore with purpose and give back to the places that inspire us."

James Papagno, Founder & CEO
James
Papagno
Chief Expedition Officer

“Exploration isn't only about where we go, it's about how it transforms us and the stories we leave behind."

For more than 40 years, James Papagno has journeyed across the globe, guided by a lifelong passion for discovery. As the founder of Wild Earth Portfolio LLC, he has redefined modern travel through experiences that unite technology, hospitality, and storytelling. A true adventurer, waterman, and photographer, James continues to inspire others to explore with purpose and curiosity.

Karen
Meyer
Brand + Design + Creative

“My purpose is to assist those who support Nature — to communicate their mission with their authentic visual voice.”

Nature lover, yogi, world explorer, clean food enthusiast, artist, designer, writer, photographer, imagineer and creator of beauty. Karen’s brand design studio, backed by 15 years of branding experience across a wide variety of industries, is inspired by the wellbeing of Nature. Partnering with James to bring Wild Earth Stays to life, Karen brings a full-rounded, fresh perspective to the travel industry.

Kristina
Larson
Agent + Content Lead

“Travel isn’t just about places — it’s about the moments that stay with you forever.”

Kristina is a passionate traveler, inspired by her father’s (James Papago) love for exploration. She thrives on discovering new cultures, outdoor adventures, and meaningful connections. When not exploring, she manages high-end catering in Palm Beach and supports Wild Earth Stays influence team.

Anthony
Papagno
Agent + Content Lead

“The best adventures aren’t just about where you go, but who you share them with.”

Anthony finds inspiration in adventure, shaped by years of watching his father explore the world. Travel fuels his drive to see life through new perspectives and create lasting connections. His recent journey to Indonesia reinforced the power of exploration.

George Mason +
Andi Brown
Digital Strategy / Development Team

“Great adventures deserve great stories, capturing them is what I do best.”

As visionaries in travel and media, George and Andi blend expert storytelling with high-impact sales strategy. As the founders of Can’t Say Who Media, they help to assist Wild Earth Stays mission to travel bold to destinations that inspire the mind, body, and spirit.

Expedition Co.
Web Development

The Expedition Co. is traversing the digital expanse.

Bold adventurers and brilliant web designers, The Expedition Co. were the perfect match to bring Wild Earth to life. The team craft seamless, high-impact digital experiences with the same adventurous spirit they bring to exploration — leaving no stone unturned in pursuit of excellence.

Michael Ellis +
Kleinjan Groenewald
Flink Studio

We’re thrilled to have Flink Studio’s visionary duo, Michael Ellis and Kleinjan Groenewald, bringing Wild Earth Stay’s photographic and cinematic vision to life on screen. Masters of visual storytelling, they craft immersive narratives for exclusive getaways and fine wines, delivering bold, impactful visuals that go beyond expectations, no fluff, just pure creative excellence.

Joffers
McCormick
Founder - Captivating Africa | Exclusively My Africa

“I often say that I have never worked a day in my life as I regard guiding and conservation as a way of life rather than a job.”

I consider myself incredibly fortunate to have grown up with the bush as an integral part of who I am. My passion for safari and the natural world began early, shaped by a childhood spent on a game reserve in Zimbabwe. From a young age, I was taught to respect and value the environment—a foundation that has guided my path ever since. Deep down, I always knew I was destined to return to the wild and make a life doing what I love most.

Person relaxing in infinity pool overlooking lush green mountains and a coastal bay with rocky cliffs.
Capella Lodge  /  Australia  /  Oceania
A HANd-SELECTED TEAM

We choose bold, visionary travel professionals who see beyond itineraries. They are storytellers, explorers, and curators of meaningful journeys, leading with authenticity, passion, and open hearts.

At Wild Earth Stays, we offer more than travel. We create access to extraordinary stays, immersive experiences, and sustainable opportunities that inspire connection and growth. Joining our team means becoming part of a thriving community of like-minded explorers who are redefining how the world experiences travel.

Contact us at staywild@wildearthstay.com to start your journey with Wild Earth Stays.

TESTIMONY OF SERVICE

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Name, Date, Source

“Perhaps the most unique feature, is the opportunity to stay under the stars, in the middle of the bush, in the safety of a treehouse!”

KATRYNM, DEC 2022

“Perhaps the most unique feature, is the opportunity to stay under the stars, in the middle of the bush, in the safety of a treehouse!”

KATRYNM, DEC 2022

“Perhaps the most unique feature, is the opportunity to stay under the stars, in the middle of the bush, in the safety of a treehouse!”

KATRYNM, DEC 2022
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We loved the camp’s eco-friendly ethos and personal service. The staff felt like old friends by the end.

Sophia N.,
June 2023
(Trustpilot)

The mokoro ride was magical and the treehouse hide was a highlight for my family. We’ll be back!

Mark T.,
September 2022
(Expedia)

Little Tubu was everything I dreamed a Delta safari could be. Quiet, intimate, with superb guides and wildlife everywhere.

Olivia W.,
July 2023
(Tripadvisor)

Perfect mix of wildlife, comfort, and adventure. Plus a great pool and amazing views.

Lauren S,
February 2024
(Trustpilot)

Mokoro safaris were incredible. We saw wild dogs and lions right from camp. Highly recommend for families.

Jacques P,
March 2024
(Expedia)

Hippos in the lagoon, elephants every day, and the most welcoming camp team. Sable Alley is Delta magic.

Katya H,
April 2024
(TripAdvisor)

Sleek design, delicious breakfast, and sunset drinks by the pool make POD Camps Bay a must.

Ryan G,
February 2024
(Trustpilot)

The service was exceptional, and being so close to the beach made our honeymoon unforgettable.

Emily F,
March 2024
(Expedia)

The rooms are so chic and the views of the ocean are unreal. POD is our new favorite Cape Town hotel.

Marco T,
April 2024
(TripAdvisor)

Perfect for solo travelers, families, and friends. Incredible food, people, and a true sense of community.

Simphiwe M,
February 2024
(Trustpilot)

Yoga at sunrise, evening drives, and sharing stories around the fire make Habitas Namibia truly special.

Nick L,
March 2024
(Expedia)

The wellness program, staff, and wildlife blew us away. Every day felt like a personal retreat.

Carla F,
April 2024
(TripAdvisor)

Our family loved the boat safaris, floating pool, and quiet wildness. Best Okavango experience ever!

Alicia R,
February 2024
(Trustpilot)

We saw lions, wild dogs, and so many birds. The island setting is unique and the staff made us feel at home.

Sipho M,
March 2024
(Expedia)

Unforgettable Delta setting, mokoro rides, and elephants right by our tent. North Island is pure magic.

Emma W,
April 2024
(TripAdvisor)

Amazing staff, spa treatments, and wine tastings. Monwana is my new favorite place in South Africa.

Taryn L,
February 2024
(Trustpilot)

Our family loved the private pool suite, delicious food, and seeing lions every day. Truly a five-star safari.

David S,
March 2024
(Expedia)

Stunning lodge, beautiful suites, and the game drives were the best we’ve ever had. Monwana is pure luxury in the bush.

Alice V,
April 2024
(TripAdvisor)

Spa, safari, and sunsets with hippos. Mfuwe Lodge was unforgettable from start to finish.

Lena W,
February 2024
(Trustpilot)

Our family loved the pool, the food, and the guides, plus the wildlife right at our doorstep. Highly recommend!

Pieter M,
March 2024
(Expedia)

Seeing elephants walk right through the lodge was the most amazing thing we’ve ever experienced. Mfuwe is pure magic.

Sarah K,
April 2024
(TripAdvisor)

Pool, migration, and real desert wildness make Meno A Kwena Botswana at its best.

James L,
February 2024
(Trustpilot)

Cultural walks with the Bushmen were unforgettable, and we saw elephants every day from camp.

Priya S,
March 2024
(Expedia)

The river views and zebra herds were amazing, and the floating hide is a must. Our family loved every moment.

Thomas R,
April 2024
(TripAdvisor)

Matetsi is the best of all worlds, amazing wildlife, world-class service, and right on the river. Highly recommended.

Amanda G,
February 2024
(Trustpilot)

From game drives to Victoria Falls and spa time, Matetsi was pure luxury and adventure. The private villa is next level.

Frank S,
March 2024
(Expedia)

The suites are stunning, the food is superb, and the river cruises at sunset were unforgettable. We loved every minute.

Julia W,
April 2024
(TripAdvisor)

Canoe trips and sundowners on the Zambezi made every day feel special. The staff are friendly and attentive.

Daniel P,
February 2024
(Trustpilot)

Our family villa was pure luxury, private pool, amazing views, and tiger fishing adventures we’ll never forget.

Alicia S,
March 2024
(Expedia)

The river suites are stunning and waking up to elephants on the banks was incredible. Service and food were world class.

Brian M,
April 2024
(TripAdvisor)

Staff were incredible, and every day brought a new adventure with the herds. Highly recommend Kichakani!

Lars S,
February 2024
(Trustpilot)

Loved waking up to wildebeest right outside our tent and sundowners on the savanna. Unforgettable trip.

Faith M,
March 2024
(Expedia)

Following the migration was a dream come true, with amazing wildlife, stylish tents, and superb guides.

Will H,
April 2024
(TripAdvisor)

Khwai Lediba exceeded all expectations, so much wildlife, incredible service, and a real sense of community.

Eli T,
February 2024
(Trustpilot)

Wonderful guides and delicious food. We loved the night drives and the sound of hippos every evening.

Susan M,
March 2024
(Expedia)

Brand new and beautiful camp. The mokoro trips were magical and our family tent had the best views of elephants on the lagoon.

Isaac R,
April 2024
(TripAdvisor)

Loved the birdwatching and evenings by the campfire. Khwai Leadwood is a real gem in the Okavango.

Mariam P,
February 2024
(Trustpilot)

Family tent was perfect for our group. Friendly staff, beautiful camp, and the wildlife was nonstop.

James H,
March 2024
(Expedia)

Amazing river views from our tent and thrilling game drives every day. The mokoro ride was unforgettable.

Susan R,
April 2024
(TripAdvisor)

The private staff, amazing food, and freedom to plan each day made this the ultimate Botswana experience.

Helena G,
February 2024
(Trustpilot)

Loved having the whole camp to ourselves. The quad biking and fireside stargazing were our highlights.

Benji F,
March 2024
(Expedia)

Complete privacy, incredible activities, and sunrise with meerkats made our family feel like desert royalty.

Sophie L,
April 2024
(TripAdvisor)

The tent was gorgeous, staff so welcoming, and waking up on the salt pans was a dream come true.

Mia W,
February 2024
(Trustpilot)

We loved the plunge pool and the guides were incredible, with so much wildlife and such surreal scenery.

Peter S,
March 2024
(Expedia)

The quad biking and meerkat encounters were highlights. Unique camp with unforgettable style and desert vibes.

Emily R,
April 2024
(TripAdvisor)

Most peaceful lodge I’ve ever stayed at, with empty beaches, fantastic service, and every sunrise unforgettable.

James M,
April 2024
(TripAdvisor)

Giraffe Manor is pure magic. The rooms, food, and animal encounters were worth every penny.

Teresa S,
February 2024
(Trustpilot)

Our kids loved every minute, feeding giraffes, exploring the gardens, and relaxing in the beautiful manor.

Ahmed B,
March 2024
(Expedia)

Sharing breakfast with giraffes was a dream come true. The staff made our stay feel like home, absolutely magical.

Michelle T,
April 2024
(TripAdvisor)

Gibbs Farm is a peaceful retreat. The spa and coffee roasting were favorite experiences, we’ll be back!

Julian H,
February 2024
(Trustpilot)

Every meal was delicious, the staff was wonderful, and the birdwatching was a real highlight.

Lorna S,
March 2024
(Expedia)

The gardens and cottages are beautiful. We loved the food, the walks, and the quiet atmosphere, perfect for our family.

David A,
April 2024
(TripAdvisor)

A family-friendly lodge with wild adventure and real relaxation. The pool was perfect for afternoons with our kids.

Leonie D,
February 2024
(Trustpilot)

The guides were fantastic, the food was great, and the sunsets unforgettable. Loved the rhino tracking experience!

Hannah M,
March 2024
(Expedia)

Best views in Namibia, our chalet felt like a castle above the plains. Saw lions and rhinos every day.

Oliver J,
April 2024
(TripAdvisor)

Loved the variety of activities and friendly staff. Sunsets over the pan are just breathtaking.

Olivia D,
February 2024
(Trustpilot)

Great for families! Our kids loved the pool, the bush walks, and all the animals at the pan.

Henrik S,
March 2024
(Expedia)

Elephants right in front of our tent and amazing mokoro guides made this the best safari of our lives.

Janet M,
April 2024
(TripAdvisor)

The variety of activities, from night drives to boat cruises, made every day different. Absolutely loved Duke’s!

Sara T,
February 2024
(Trustpilot)

Best camp for real adventure, amazing wildlife, classic tents, and water everywhere! Loved the pool and sunsets.

Lucas B,
March 2024
(Expedia)

The mokoro trips were the highlight, peaceful, wild, and breathtaking. The guides and staff made us feel right at home.

Emma F,
April 2024
(TripAdvisor)

Beautiful tents, great guides, and amazing birdlife make this camp feel like home in the wild.

Sophie W,
February 2024
(Trustpilot)

Loved the quiet, wild setting and the chance to connect with community members. The Delta at Daunara is pure magic.

Nia T,
March 2024
(Expedia)

Our mokoro trip was unforgettable and meeting the local team made this the most meaningful safari we’ve done.

Jacob M,
April 2024
(TripAdvisor)

The birdwatching and peaceful lagoon setting made this a dream for photographers. Loved the intimacy and attention to detail.

Zoe K,
February 2024
(Trustpilot)

Walking safaris and sunset drinks made our honeymoon unforgettable. Staff were so welcoming and the wildlife was incredible.

Adam F,
March 2024
(Expedia)

The views from our stilted tent were breathtaking. We saw hippos and elephants every day from our deck.

Rachel L,
April 2024
(TripAdvisor)

Perfect for a romantic escape or a solo adventure, it felt totally immersive and connected to the wild.

Amelia P,
February 2024
(Trustpilot)

Waking up to elephants at the river was magical. The food and guiding were top notch, and the setting is so peaceful.

Tim H,
March 2024
(Expedia)

Unforgettable treehouse views and walking safaris. The intimacy and beauty of Chamilandu are unmatched.

Lauren M,
April 2024
(TripAdvisor)

Loved the conservation focus and personal attention. The bush breakfasts and cultural encounters made it so special.

Priya S,
February 2024
(Trustpilot)

Beautiful suites, amazing food, and the sunsets were simply stunning. Our best family trip ever!

Samuel W,
March 2024
(Expedia)

The slow safari style let us truly appreciate every sunrise and animal. Walking with Maasai guides was unforgettable.

Julia P,
April 2024
(TripAdvisor)

We loved the lake cruises and walking safaris. Bumi Hills is the perfect mix of wild and wonderful.

Vanessa S,
February 2024
(Trustpilot)

Best family holiday ever. The staff were amazing, the villa was gorgeous, and the sunsets are unbeatable.

Michael B,
March 2024
(Expedia)

The lake views and infinity pool were absolutely stunning. We saw elephants and hippos from the deck!

Tracy K,
April 2024
(TripAdvisor)

Our kids loved feeding the animals and swimming in the pool. Babylonstoren is paradise for families and couples alike.

Megan L,
February 2024
(Trustpilot)

Waking up in the vineyards and joining the garden tour every morning was a highlight. Friendly staff and amazing spa!

Pieter S,
March 2024
(Expedia)

The gardens are magical, the food is incredible, and our family suite was so comfortable. Truly a dream for food and nature lovers.

Alice B,
April 2024
(TripAdvisor)

Incredible desert views, beautiful tents, and amazing staff. We left feeling inspired and reconnected with nature.

Tania M,
February 2024
(Trustpilot)

Wolwedans is the most sustainable and soulful place I have stayed. The food, the guides, and the silence are unforgettable.

Franz H,
March 2024
(Expedia)

Sleeping with the canvas open and waking up to the dunes was the highlight of our Namibia trip. The walks and stargazing are magic.

Emily K,
April 2024
(TripAdvisor)

Family tent was perfect for our kids. Loved the personal service and conservation focus.

Mark R,
February 2024
(Trustpilot)

Tents are stunning and the walking safari was a dream. The food and boma nights were unforgettable.

Nicole F,
March 2024
(Expedia)

Best safari of our lives. Saw lions every drive and the staff made us feel like family.

Thando N,
April 2024
(TripAdvisor)

So peaceful and fun for all ages. Pool, bikes, and river adventures made it perfect for our family.

Lerato M,
January 2024
(Trustpilot)

Best family holiday in the Cape. Wild, relaxed, and beautiful. The staff made every day special.

Tom N,
February 2024
(Expedia)

The boathouses are magical. Kids loved kayaking and exploring. We felt instantly at home and never wanted to leave.

Sarah B,
March 2024
(TripAdvisor)

Our family loved the privacy, the wildlife, and the hospitality. Leopard Hill is magical, can’t wait to return!

Michelle N,
February 2024
(Trustpilot)

The yoga platform and sunrise views are breathtaking. Walking safaris with Maasai guides were the highlight of our trip.

David R,
March 2024
(Expedia)

Sleeping under the stars in a luxury tent was a dream come true. We saw leopards daily and felt so connected to nature.

Sophia W,
April 2024
(TripAdvisor)

A photographer’s dream. Wildlife everywhere, delicious food, and sunsets that took our breath away.

Samuel L,
February 2024
(Trustpilot)

Loved the walking safaris and Maasai guides. The experience was wild, authentic, and unforgettable.

Nadine K,
March 2024
(Expedia)

The views from camp are unbeatable. We saw elephants, lions, and zebras from our tent, absolutely magical!

Erik S,
April 2024
(TripAdvisor)

Beautiful infinity pools, stunning sunrises, and total privacy. Samburu is magical, thank you Saruni!

Celine M,
February 2024
(Trustpilot)

The setting is unreal, and the staff’s warmth made us feel at home. The cultural experiences were a highlight.

Ravi S,
March 2024
(Expedia)

Our family loved the cliff top villas and endless views, and our private guide made every safari unforgettable.

Megan T,
April 2024
(TripAdvisor)

Unplugged luxury and true adventure. The night drives and dinners by the fire made every day special.

Julia D,
February 2024
(Trustpilot)

The team made us feel at home. Our family tent was perfect, and sundowners in the bush were a dream.

Paul W,
March 2024
(Expedia)

This is the real Mara. Quiet, intimate, and filled with wildlife. Walking with Maasai guides was the highlight of our trip.

Anna K,
April 2024
(TripAdvisor)