Robin Swanepoel

Hi. I’m Robin, your Cape Verde, Madagascar and The Gambia Specialist.

I started my career as a young nature conservationist, but the corporate world quickly swept me into its boardrooms. Ever resourceful and passionate, I climbed the corporate ladder rapidly, integrating sustainable development practices into Africa’s largest infrastructure projects. This involved extensive travel, living out of a suitcase and enduring countless uncomfortable hotel pillows – why are they so soft and fluffy?

I soon realized my soul felt empty and needed to reconnect with my roots. Quitting my job, I exchanged the sterile boardrooms for dusty landscapes and embarked on self-discovery. Packing essentials into my trusty 4×4, I left Cape Town behind, heading north.

I primarily wild camped for two and a half months, far removed from civilization. I dug holes for toilets, bathed naked in crocodile-infested waters, and shared campfires with leopards, lions, and barking geckos. It was tough and gruelling, but a profoundly enriching experience I’ll never forget. I learnt a lot about myself, life’s fragility, blessings, and foolishness when it comes to love.

I realised not all travel should be so extreme. It instilled a deep appreciation for life’s simple pleasures.

Soon after, a Fleewinter colleague introduced me to Southeast Asia, captivating my interest. Australia and the USA followed quickly.

Jet lag hadn’t subsided when my son expressed a desire to see lemurs, not in a zoo but in Madagascar, just like the movie. We embarked on a Madagascar adventure, weathering Cyclone Gamane and forging a strong father-son bond.

Upon returning, I joined the Fleewinter team. The rest, as they say, is history.

I hope to share the wonders I’ve discovered with you by crafting unforgettable holidays to my favourite destinations.