Travel Expert

Scott Dunn

Having journeyed through nearly 40 countries, Scott’s passion for exploring the world and inspiring others to step beyond the ordinary is infectious. After completing his studies, he found himself drawn to the world of luxury travel. An avid snowboarder, Scott soon traded his textbooks for snowboards and set out on an adventure that took him to New Zealand, Japan, and Vietnam, among other countries, but it was the French Alps that called him back time and time again. Today, Scott and his wife call Belfast home, where he joined the Mahlatini team, sharing the beauty of travel with others.

After exploring careers as a private chef, and as a mountaineering gear expert, Scott rediscovered his love for travel while working with some of the most renowned luxury travel and ski companies. With a deep passion for helping people fulfill their dream trips, Scott loves nothing more than sharing in the excitement of once-in-a-lifetime journeys. From fitting boots for Everest trekkers to demystifying luxury travel, his focus has always been on making people's travel dreams a reality.

Mahlatini Destinations Explored

Egypt
Maldives
Mauritius
Sri Lanka

Most Memorable Trip

When travelling in Anuradhapura, I was fortunate enough to visit the stunning Ruwanweli Maha Seya on a Poya Day as the sun was setting. The complex was filled with locals celebrating the holy day, many having travelled from across the country to be there. It was an incredible experience to hear the chants, witness the acts of devotion and offerings, and watch the complex transform as the sun set. Before leaving, we lit a coconut oil lamp and incense, and I captured this shot. The fire here is entirely made up of incense sticks! It was such an authentic, special moment.

Top of My Bucket List

Sujan Jawai in Rajasthan is at the top of my list. The dramatic landscapes are unlike anywhere else, and the accommodation mirrors the kind of luxury safari setup you’d find in Africa. I’m also eager to experience their ‘Riding in the Wild’ adventure—it’s the perfect blend of excitement and luxury.

Favourite Safari Animal

“Asian elephants are such stunning and intelligent creatures. Coming from the UK on my first trip outside of Europe, they were among the first safari animals I had the joy of seeing, so I’ll always have a soft spot for them!”

Sundowner of Choice

"A Margarita with a Tajín salt rim, just the right balance of sweetness, with lime and a hint of spice running through the salt, is perfection for me! Pair that with a bowl of Murukku (a South Indian snack), and I’ll be happy."

Favourite Property

"Ceylon Tea Trails! The scenery is unbelievable, and the service unmatched (your butler just a buzzer away 24/7). Sitting with a pot of black tea, overlooking the tea fields, in their infinity hot tub is a perfect way to spend time in the tea hills."

Top Travel Tip

Having your own high-quality eye mask and earplugs can make all the difference on a long flight. No matter what class you’re flying in, a comfortable eye mask that relieves pressure on your eyes, paired with sturdy earplugs, will help you sleep much better than anything you’ll find in an amenity kit. You’ll arrive feeling refreshed and ready to make the most of your trip!

Best Part of My Job

I get to take someone’s dream and turn it into reality. Sharing that carefully crafted itinerary with them for the first time, and seeing their face light up never fails to make my day!

WHAT MY CLIENTS SAY

The itinerary Scott developed for me was outstanding

"I employed Mahlatini to travel to India to photograph wild tigers. Scott Dunn convinced me to travel to a reserve I had never heard of previously. I agreed and I am so very glad I relied upon Scott’s expertise. Of the eight safari tours, I saw multiple tigers on six of the tours. The sightings were remarkable. "

Camerone Toyne, USA
Holiday to India, 2026

Scott was top notch, so attentive and accommodating

"It was an amazing honeymoon. Best holiday of our lives! so thank you to Scott Dunn and Mahlatini! The guides were excellent. Because of this, we were never stressed and were able to fully enjoy and take in all the sights and really learn about the rich culture and history of the country."

Sean Mernagh, Ireland
Honeymoon to India and Maldives, 2025

It was the perfect amount of culture, new experiences and relaxation that we wanted

"Scott was fantastic from start to finish. He put together an incredible itinerary which really suited us using his extensive knowledge of Sri Lanka. We'd definitely be keen to use Scott again for any future special trips!"

Charlotte Wickham, UK
Honeymoon to Sri Lanka, 2025

An amazing trip, truly memorable

"Highly responsive to all our requests and patient while we worked through and refined first the outline itinerary. Scott provided plenty of thoughts and suggestions for our consideration, so the whole holiday was perfectly tailored for us, all of which was very much appreciated!"

Andrew Grimstone, UK
Holiday to Bhutan, 2025