Claire Picknell

Claire has been with Mahlatini since its early years and has crafted literally hundreds of incredible journeys across nearly every single destination within its product portfolio.

Known as the 'Warm Heart of Mahlatini', Claire's infectious love for her native Africa, combined with a genuine desire to make clients' travel dreams come true is reflected in her catalogue of amazing client reviews.

My African destination specialisms

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

MOST MEMORABLE TRAVEL EXPERIENCE

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.

My travel wish-list

Number one on my bucket list was visiting 'The Pearl of Africa' - Uganda - to see the gorillas in their natural habitat. I made my dream a reality back in 2019 and it was the most incredible experience and a lifetime memory worth waiting for. Going again is still firmly on my list!

Favourite Lodge

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.

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.

BEST #MAHLATINIMOMENT

The opening of the Cape Town office. Mahlatini is like my family and it's amazing to reflect on my journey here. I joined a UK office of only 6 people, over 11 years ago, and now the team has mushroomed, with multiple office locations and a client base stretching across the globe.