Travel Expert

Meike Runz

Born in Germany and raised in Cape Town, Meike’s story is one of a great love for exploration and a deep affection for Africa. Her childhood was spent on the road in a VW, exploring Southern Africa with her family. Today, she’s come full circle, back in Cape Town, where she wants her daughter to grow up. She laughs that she still can’t land in Cape Town without crying tears of joy.

Her path into travel wasn’t planned. A German-speaker looking for work, she joined Lufthansa and discovered how much she loved helping people. From load control to customer care, to crafting tailormade journeys for the German market, she’s seen travel from every side.

Mongoose standing on top of Meike's head

Meike finds joy not only in curating extraordinary experiences but also in forming genuine connections with her clients—many of whom still reach out years later.

Mahlatini Destinations Explored

Botswana
Kenya
Mozambique
Namibia
South Africa
Zanzibar
Zimbabwe

Most Memorable Trip

Galloping across Botswana’s salt pans with a herd of zebra running alongside us is a moment I’ll never forget. That evening we lay under a sky so full of stars it felt unreal. There was no noise, no rush, just that overwhelming sense of space and stillness. It was one of those experiences that stays with you long after you’ve gone home.

Top of My Bucket List

Zambia is at the top of my list. I’d love to do a proper walking safari, even though the idea still terrifies me. When I did a short walk in Zimbabwe’s Hwange National Park, a young elephant approached us. Our guide was very calm and told us to stand behind him while he fended the elephant off, but my heart nearly stopped! There’s something about Zambia that feels even wilder and more untouched than anywhere else. It’s the kind of place that lets you really connect with nature.

Favourite Safari Animal

Elephants. I find them so fascinating and being up close with them is always a surreal experience.

Sundowner of Choice

Wine. Wine. Wine. Wine. I’m African! A chilled glass of rosé or white wine is the ultimate sundowner.

Favourite Property

The Asilia portfolio. They somehow get it right everywhere. For me, it’s all about having the right guide.

Top Travel Tip

Never choose the shortest connection. Don’t be fooled by what the airport says. Give yourself time—rather sit, relax and have a glass of wine or champagne, and cheers to the amazing time you’ve had or are going to have. There’s nothing worse than being stressed on your holiday and missing a flight. Rather invest in lounge access. It’s always worth it, and makes a good start or end to your holiday.

Best Part of My Job

It’s the privilege of helping people experience Africa the way I know and love it. Watching guests return transformed, their hearts a little fuller, is the best reward there is. I also love listening, connecting, and creating those small, thoughtful moments that make guests feel truly seen. At Mahlatini, I do this by bringing warmth and precision to each safari I design.