Travel Expert

Taryn Uytenbogaardt

Born and raised in Cape Town, Taryn has always had an innate curiosity for people and new places. After studying Public Relations and Media, she explored sales, marketing, and logistics before finding her true calling in travel. What began as a practical career move soon became a way to combine her strategic mindset with her lifelong passion for sustainability and positive impact.

Seeing how travel could directly support conservation, community upliftment, and education gave her the sense of purpose she’d been seeking. Today, she channels that passion into helping clients discover the wonder and responsibility of exploring Africa, connecting them to its incredible wildlife, cultures, and communities in ways that create lasting appreciation and respect for the world around us.

Today, Taryn brings warmth to every journey she designs, combining strong organisation with a heartfelt belief in travel’s ability to do good through sustainability and positive-impact initiatives.

Mahlatini Destinations Explored

Egypt
Seychelles
South Africa

Most Memorable Trip

Egypt changed the way I see the world. It was humbling and extraordinary—standing inside the pyramids, seeing the markings and temples, and then walking through the markets where people live with so little. It made me realise how blessed we are and how much perspective travel can bring. The history, the architecture, the contrast, the culture... it’s a place that stays with you forever.

Top of My Bucket List

On my first safari at Lion Sands, I joined the Endangered Wildlife Trust for a day tracking wild dogs and learned how intelligent and social these animals are. Taking my son on a wild dog safari for a similar experience is at the very top of my bucket list. He’s absolutely obsessed with them, and my dream is to see his face when he spots a pack in the wild for the first time.

Favourite Safari Animal

Wild dogs. My son’s fascination has become mine too!

Sundowner of Choice

Definitely a glass of Steenberg bubbles, always!

Favourite Property

Lion Sands will always hold a special place in my heart.

Top Travel Tip

Go with an open mind and leave space for the unexpected. Travel rarely unfolds exactly as you picture it, and that’s exactly where the magic happens!

Best Part of My Job

I love that travel can shift perspectives and spark appreciation for nature, wildlife, and community. Visiting communities like the Pack for a Purpose project reminded me that even in the heart of nothing, there’s so much joy. Those experiences stay with you. Helping clients see the world differently, while knowing that travel can uplift and protect, is what makes this work so meaningful.