Heidi Ocker

Head of Marketing

Heidi's love of wildlife started early, from joining the Conservation Club at junior school to becoming a keen birdwatcher by the age of 10. Her other dream career would have been as a game ranger, so working for a travel brand rooted in travelling to wild places and conservation feels like a natural fit.

With two decades of experience in digital marketing across agencies and corporates, including several years doing destination marketing for Cape Town, Heidi brings together a love of travel with a deep understanding of how people discover and plan unforgettable journeys. Outside of work, she is most often found hiking, paddling, or planning the next family road trip somewhere off the beaten track.

Today, as Mahlatini's Head of Marketing, Heidi works closely with the marketing team to ensure our marketing balances brand awareness with commercial impact. She is passionate about improving the company's visibility without losing sight of our customers and the meaningful travel experiences we plan for them.

Mahlatini Destinations Explored

Mozambique
Namibia
South Africa

Most Memorable Trip

Last year my family took a 7,000km road trip from Cape Town, through Kruger National Park, to the Mozambican coast and back via Eswatini. It was a privilege to take my kids from one side of southern Africa to the other, watching the scenery and vegetation shift from the dry Karoo to lush northern Kruger and remote Mozambique.

Top of My Bucket List

My list is very long, but Madagascar has to be right at the top for me. I would really love to experience the unspoiled diving spots, remote beaches, unique wildlife, and those magnificent baobab trees.

Favourite Safari Animal

For me, the sounds of the bush are as memorable as the sightings. The cry of the African Fish Eagle always lifts my spirits, and the Fiery-necked Nightjar takes me straight back to nights on safari.

Sundowner of Choice

My all time best has to be a gin and tonic with a slice of lime. It's the quintessential sundowner and is synonymous with safari in my mind. Although, an icy cold beer is a close second.

Favourite Property

Thonga Beach Lodge and Kosi Forest Lodge in northern KwaZulu-Natal hold special memories for me, as I spent my honeymoon there many years ago.

Top Travel Tip

Exploring a destination on foot gives you time to slow down, notice the small details, get some exercise and feel more connected to where you are. I always pack a pair of comfortable shoes so I'm ready for a walk whenever the opportunity arises.

Best Part of My Job

It's rewarding to combine my background in marketing with my love of travel and conservation. I get to help people connect with Mahlatini and discover the incredible places they can experience with us.