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 just about where we go— it’s about how it transforms us and the stories we leave behind.”

For over 40 years, James Papagno has roamed the globe, driven by an insatiable passion for exploration. As the founder of Wild Earth Portfolio LLC, he has transformed the travel industry through visionary platforms that merge technology, hospitality, and storytelling. A lifelong adventurer, waterman, and photographer.

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.

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.

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.

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

We saw the migration from our tent and enjoyed every moment. Great for families and solo travelers.

Samuel T,
June 2023
(Trustpilot)

Loved the warm welcome, delicious food, and inspiring women. Dunia is a special place.

Kate W,
July 2023
(Expedia)

Dunia’s team is amazing. The guides made me feel like family and the wildlife was spectacular.

Zuri N,
August 2023
(TripAdvisor)

Kokoko is perfect for photographers and nature lovers. Saw so many birds and the staff were wonderful.

Stella M,
June 2023
(Trustpilot)

Loved the campfire stories and the quiet, remote vibe. Great guides and amazing wildlife sightings.

James T,
July 2023
(Expedia)

The walking safaris were the best I’ve ever done. Lions, elephants, and total wilderness all around.

Aliyah J,
August 2023
(TripAdvisor)

Best safari lodge ever. Service, food, and wildlife—everything was flawless.

Zanele S,
August 2022
(Trustpilot)

Edwardian elegance meets African adventure. We loved the private pool and sunset horseback rides.

Daniel K,
June 2023
(Expedia)

Sasakwa is pure magic. The views, the horses, and the manor house made our family safari unforgettable.

Valerie T,
July 2023
(TripAdvisor)

Serengeti House is a dream for families. Wildlife everywhere, beautiful spaces, and unforgettable memories.

Stefano R,
August 2022
(Trustpilot)

Incredible villa, wonderful staff, and the kids never wanted to leave. Every detail was perfect.

Lebo M,
June 2023
(Expedia)

The perfect family safari home. The pool, tennis court, and private drives made every day amazing.

Candice W,
July 2023
(TripAdvisor)

“Wonderful safari experience — the camp is extremely luxurious and comfortable… The game viewing in this area of the Okavango Delta is wonderful.”

GatorMarj ,
March 2020
(Tripadvisor)

“Little Mombo is a fantastic camp that gives you modern day luxury … our room was beyond luxury with a copper bathtub, a plunge pool, …”

Chris M,
August 2024
(Tripadvisor )

“If you are considering a Safari holiday… our guide was able to find: lionesses with their cubs, a leopard with her cubs, … we even saw owls!”

Kat E,
May 2025
(Tripadvisor)

“Epic Place to Stay … Mahale was a dream come true and Greystoke was an absolutely EPIC place to stay. … seeing the lake … luxury camp rooms with views of the lake … Lovely passionate team …”

K Vogel Kelly ,
Nov 2024
(Nomads.com)

“Unbelievable Service and Food … Everything from the service, to the food was unbelievable. … how much the team here cares not only for our experience but for the wildlife itself …”

J Ellis,
July 2025
(Nomads.com)

Again a truly magnificent 6-night stay in Morukuru Farm House. We have stayed at Morukuru Family in Madikwe several times already, but again and again the staff makes it a really memorable stay.

Trip Advisor,
Jun 2025
(Trip Advisor)

This was one of the best stay experiences I’ve ever had. Cannot say about good things about the place and the team. It really was very special and our family made so many memories here that will last a lifetime.

Trip Advisor,
Jun 2025
(Trip Advisor)

“I was blown away… combines architectural design, local artwork, unmatched luxury… best exclusive‑use option.”

Alex,
Jan 2025
(Trip Advisor)

“One of the single nicest places I’ve ever stayed… silent safaris in electric vehicles… carbon‑negative”

Travel + Leisure ,
Jul 2024
(— Travel + Leisure)

“Never more than 40 guests… you get a vast landscape … virtually to yourself.”

The Times UK,
Dec 2024
(— The Times (UK))

“Absolutely stunning… perfect retreat for those seeking solace in nature without compromising comfort.”

Trip Advisor,
April 2025
(— TripAdvisor traveler)

“I’m one of the very few who stayed alone…perfect place to have ME time…absolute luxury.” — Sarah Rose S~

Sarah,
Dec 2023
(Trip Advisor)

“Absolute paradise…the room was amazing…private pool is fantastic.” — JJLuvsHotels

Review,
Jan 2024
(Trip Advisor)

“Best tented camp in the Okavango… staff always nice and friendly, food excellent.”

Stefano,
Mar 2023
(Stefano Fen - Brisbane | Machaba )

"Fantastic introduction to safari… food was great… staff extremely welcoming…& I had my own safari vehicle.”

Nick G,
Jan 2025
(Nick G - London | Machaba )

“The crew went above and beyond—from deckhands to dive guides… The attention to detail and thoughtfulness… made it truly a ‘Celestial’ trip we will never forget. Everything from the food to the activities were very well planned and enjoyable.”

Review,
Jun 2023
(Celestia Yacht's Website)

Absolutely Dream Stay at Tinga Lodge! Game Drives & Bush walks were incredible!

Marli,
Jun 2023
(Lion Sands Website)

Wonderful place! There is absolutely nothing I would change about it.

Matheus ,
Oct 2019
(Expedia)

"Tanah Gajah operates on a different pace than any other hotel I’ve visited. Everything happens without intrusion or visibility, whether it’s your laundry magically being returned, your minibar refilled, or your pool cleaned."

Tanah Gajah,
April 3, 2025
(Luxury Executive - 2025)

"Tanah Gajah offers a historic architectural stay amid curated gardens and surrounded by the region’s iconic stepped rice paddies. The entire property has been designed as a sanctuary of calm, and we certainly felt rejuvenated after our stay."

The Hotel Journal ,
December 13, 2024
(The Hotel Journal 2024)

Incredible experience. All of their staff and guides are so friendly and approachable. Our guide (Jabu) and tracker (Wanted) are incredibly knowledgeable and fun to be with.

Christopher,
Nov 2024
(Christopher)

Our Dream Safari Came True! We would definitely recommend Lion Sand’s River Lodge! We came here for our honeymoon and this was the most special holiday of our lives. The service was fantastic.

Joshua,
Dec 2024
(Trip Advisor)

Wow & Absolute Awe! One of the greatest Experiences of my Life! The whole trip was like a dream. We saw all of the big 5 & the service was outstanding.

Natalie,
Jan 2025
(Trip Advisor)

“The perfect place if you’re looking for something different, full of love in every detail and designed to make you feel special.”

Daniel,
Jan 2025
(Trip Advisor)

“Promise kept – we came back! We had such a wonderful time with our first experience in this hotel and promised to ourselves we would come back for another taste of this magical place, and this time was even better!”

Andrea,
Jan 2025
(Trip Advisor)

“This magical, beautiful place was just what we needed for our souls! It is breathtakingly beautiful, peaceful, magical and steeped in nature. An amazingly restorative experience. Can’t wait to go back.”

Mabel,
Jan 2025
(Trip Advisor)