Team Leader

Claire Picknell

Claire, an African native, grew up in Malawi, known as 'The Warm Heart of Africa.' Inspired by frequent visits to Lake Malawi, she developed a passion for marine life. Starting her career as a scuba diving instructor in tourism, Claire blended her love for water, marine animals, and connecting with fellow explorers. Over time, she worked in diverse roles across South Africa and Mozambique before relocating to the northern hemisphere to be closer to family.

Claire, a key member of Mahlatini since its early days, has designed numerous extraordinary journeys spanning nearly every destination in the portfolio. Dubbed the 'Warm Heart of Mahlatini,' her contagious passion for Africa, paired with a sincere commitment to fulfilling clients' travel dreams, is evident in the rave reviews she receives.

African Destinations Visited

Botswana
Egypt
Kenya
Malawi
Mauritius
Mozambique
Namibia
Seychelles
South Africa
Tanzania
Uganda
Zambia
Zimbabwe

Most Memorable Trip

I have so many great memories, but it has to be a helicopter safari over the Maasai Mara, Kenya. Flying over the Great Rift Valley and hovering over the Mara Plains, whilst absorbing the incredibly diverse scenery and seeing herds of elephants from the skies genuinely took my breath away.

Top Of My Bucket-List

Top of my bucket list would be Rwanda, it is the last country on my list and I cannot wait to check it off! Within one relatively small, land-locked country it offers such a diversity of experiences and I would love to see it all myself.

Favourite Safari Animal

"Controversial maybe, but I love a huge gnarly crocodile. They are living dinosaurs as they haven't really evolved for 65 million years."

Sundowner Of Choice

"You cannot beat a gin and tonic, but for me is has to be garnished with fresh cucumber."

Favourite Property

"Elsa Kopje in Meru National Park. I travelled there with my partner on his first safari adventure and it was magical sharing that unforgettable 'first-time' experience."

Top Travel Tip

I always save something I have been dying to watch for my long-haul flights. I always download my must-watch series and movies to my tablet while packing, that way I can watch it on the plane. Being immersed in an epic series keeps your mind off the hours flying!

The Best Part Of My Job

I think I get more excited than my clients planning journeys! I plan every journey as though I was doing it myself and try to incorporate everything I’ve experienced and loved. I get over excited talking about the places, people and animals you’ll get to see and experience. It doesn’t feel like a job when you are truly passionate about the product!

WHAT MY CLIENTS SAY

BEST TRIP EVER. Life changing experience planned to perfection

"Claire is INCREDIBLE. She helped us plan every detail perfectly and stayed with us every step of the way. I would recommend working with Claire to anyone interested in the safari of a lifetime."

Ted Hobart, USA
Family Holiday to South Africa, Zimbabwe and Botswana, 2024

This was truly the trip of our lifetime

"Claire was so attentive and communicative during the entire process. We have recommended her to several friends and hope to use her again for future trips."

Liz Barbour, USA
Honeymoon to Rwanda and South Africa, 2024

I truly can't believe how brilliantly it all went - it was truly magical!

"I really can't say enough about how wonderful Claire was. I've honestly never had such a positive experience with any travel-related professional. She is a gem, and I'm telling everyone I know to go on safari and have Claire plan it!"

Laura Pochup, USA
Multi-gen family holiday to Zimbabwe, Botswana and South Africa, 2023

Outstanding service

"You can tell that Claire has travelled to the region many times as her wisdom and love of the country shines through. Throughout the process, Claire was available for me with a calm voice and great tips."

Vanessa Reyes Smith, USA
Kenya Safari, 2023