Ralph da Silva

Growing up close to the Kruger National Park, with frequent family trips from an early age gave Ralph an insatiable love for safari and Africa's wildlife. Guiding safaris has provided him with valuable insights into enhancing the client experience on bespoke trips. Ralph feels that Africa has a unique ability to engage all senses and evoke a range of emotions, this is the driving force behind his passion and confidence in Africa as a travel destination.

Mahlatini Destinations Explored

• Botswana
• Mozambique
• Namibia
• South Africa
• United Arab Emirates
• Zambia
• Zimbabwe

Most Memorable Trip

My answer here isn't based on a single trip but rather a collection of my favorite memories! First, there's the unforgettable experience of visiting Botswana's Chobe region, particularly a river cruise that allowed me to witness the rich diversity of wildlife around the river, a memory I'll always hold dear. Another cherished moment is watching the sunrise over the striking red dunes in Sossusvlei, Namibia. Lastly, I fondly remember spending a night on a completely open wooden deck in the Greater Kruger National Park, surrounded by a hunting pride of 10 lions. It was a night of light sleep, but an experience I'll never forget.

Top Of My Bucket-List

At the very top of my bucket list is experiencing the Great Migration, often called the "Greatest Show on Earth." While it's undeniably impressive on TV, the thought of witnessing the sheer magnitude of those herds and their accompanying predators in real life is a sight I would love to see.

Top Travel Tip

"Bush Luck" is a real phenomenon when on safari, and maintaining a positive attitude greatly increases the chances of being rewarded with amazing wildlife sightings. Embracing the spirit of the safari, believing that each moment holds the potential for a breathtaking spectacle, can turn a simple journey into an extraordinary adventure filled with awe-inspiring glimpses of Africa's magnificent wildlife.

The Best Part of My Job

Being able to experience a safari through the eyes of a first-timer over and over again is a constant reminder of how incredibly lucky I am to call Africa home. Knowing that the trips our clients take contribute to the conservation of Africa's wild areas, allowing these areas to be preserved for future generations, is the cherry on top.