Operations Executive

Kati Stapleton

Kati is a Canadian national, raised just outside of Toronto, but has recently secured UK citizenship. As an only child to adventurous parents, she was very fortunate to have travelled extensively in her formative years, mainly through Europe and Asia. Her early travel experiences have inspired many of her adult life choices - choosing to study History and Classics at university, her involvement in conservation and of course, her pursuit of a career in travel. Kati loves learning about ancient worlds and indigenous cultures and then exploring those lands for herself to see what remains.

Her fascination with Africa is focused on its untouched nature, its vast wildernesses and the tribal cultures which have withstood the pressures of the modern world. After working as a teacher in South Korea for a number of years, Kati's first role in the UK was with the National Trust, before joining the Mahlatini team over 5 years ago as Operations Executive.

African Destinations Visited

Northern Cape
Nairobi
Mombasa and the Kenya Coast
Tsavo National Park

MOST MEMORABLE TRIP

South Africa, staying in the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park. The clear sky status is well deserved, I’ve never seen such a bright, clear and beautiful night sky! The area allowed for some rare safari sightings! We caught a few glimpses of an aardvark doing his nightly rounds of the dunes and a honey badger digging for food in the main park. Our wonderful guide also found us the elusive caracal, waiting for birds to land at one of the watering holes.

TOP OF MY BUCKET-LIST

I'm ready for a drive around Namibia! As a Canadian I’m used to long drives, so I’d love to self-drive myself around Namibia, seeing all the different landscapes and eco-systems.

Favourite Safari Animal

"The curious meerkat! When I was on safari in South Africa they were so bold, coming close to the door of the vehicle that we were taking photos from - always ready for their close up!"

Sundowner Of Choice

"A glass of bold red wine, to match the red of the sunset!"

Favourite Property

"I’m desperate to get out to Sossusvlei Desert Lodge and experience a hot air balloon flight over the desert!"

Top Travel Tip

Re-usable clear toiletry bags, so you’re not having to fiddle with the zip-lock seal on the airport ones! Also, they’re much more eco-conscious.

The Best Part Of My Job

Seeing the happy holiday photos after our clients travel! It is so rewarding to see their smiles knowing that I contributed to making their trip so memorable.