Mahlatini Luxury Travel Reviews 150

TrustScore 5 out of 5

4.9

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Rated 5 out of 5 stars

We had the vacation of a lifetime thanks to Stuart and the Mahlatini team. From our initial inquiry about traveling to Africa through to the final details of the trip, the entire planning process wa... See more

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Rated 5 out of 5 stars

My wife and I just returned from our honeymoon in the Maldives and it exceeded every expectation. Yes, the travel days were long, but the moment we arrived, we knew it was absolutely worth it. Su... See more

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Rated 5 out of 5 stars

I can’t say enough about Donna at Mahlatini; she was recommended to us by our friends Deb & Lou. Donna had arranged their honeymoon for them. So we contacted Donna, she has been great, advising us,... See more

Company replied

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

It is rare that one can find a travel company that they can totally trust unless it is by word of mouth. We selected Mahlatini based upon our own internet research after having such trouble finding an... See more

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Company details

  1. Travel Agency

Written by the company

Mahlatini is a multi-award-winning luxury tour operator specialising in travel across Africa, the Indian Subcontinent, and the unique intersections between these continents. Our expert team draws on a deep well of knowledge to craft transformative experiences with conservation at the core. Our passion for sustainability is reinforced by our B Corp™ certification, and we are proud to have been awarded: - Travel + Leisure A List Award winner 2026 - Top 10 World’s Best Tour Operators in Travel + Leisure’s® World’s Best Awards 2025 - Condé Nast Traveller Readers' Choice Awards 2025 - Condé Nast Traveller Top Travel Specialists 2026 - International Sustainability Award in 2024 and 2025 - Europe’s Leading Sustainable Tour Operator at the - World Travel Awards in 2022 and 2023 - Tripadvisor’s Travellers’ Choice Award - Feefo’s Platinum Trusted Service Award


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4.9

Excellent

TrustScore 5 out of 5

150 reviews

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Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Victoria Falls and Hwange National Park Family Vacation

Our trip was nothing short of extraordinary—an unforgettable journey filled with joy, adventure, and seamless execution. From start to finish, every moment was truly spectacular, made even more incredible by Mahlatini’s exceptional service and dedication. Throughout the entire life cycle of our trip—from the initial planning stages to last-minute travel changes and even an unexpected flight cancellation—they demonstrated unwavering professionalism, clear and timely communication, and a genuine commitment to ensuring everything went smoothly. Coordinating a trip for 14 people traveling from different corners of the world, with multiple stops along the way, was no small feat. Yet, Mahlatini handled every detail flawlessly, leaving us free to simply immerse ourselves in the experience. The time spent with our extended family was beyond special—each shared laugh, each breathtaking moment, and each heartfelt conversation made it all the more meaningful. As our journey came to an end, we found ourselves overwhelmed with gratitude. The sight of every person departing with beaming smiles and tears of joy was a testament to how truly magical this experience had been. It was a trip that will be cherished in our hearts forever, and we cannot thank Mahlatini enough for making it so perfect.

Katarina was an absolute joy to work with—an exceptional professional whose expertise, attentiveness, and warmth made our trip truly extraordinary. From the very start, she took the time to understand our family’s extensive list of hopes and dreams for this journey, and with her expert guidance, we experienced a trip that not only met but far exceeded our expectations. Her personal insights on activities at Victoria Falls were invaluable, leading us to experiences that were both breathtaking and deeply memorable. Beyond just planning, her keen awareness of logistical challenges allowed us to adjust our itinerary in ways that maximized comfort and enjoyment. She thoughtfully minimized travel time for our two young children, ensuring we could focus on what mattered most—cherishing every moment together as a family. Katarina’s communication was impeccable. She was always available, effortlessly handling last-minute changes and special requests with patience and professionalism. At every stage, her empathy and dedication shone through, making the entire planning process seamless and stress-free. I cannot recommend Katarina highly enough. She is a true expert in her field, and anyone fortunate enough to work with her will find themselves in the best possible hands.

27 January 2025
Unprompted review
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Reply from Mahlatini Luxury Travel

Thank you for your wonderfully detailed feedback, Paddy. It was such a delight working with you in planning this incredible trip and I couldn’t be happier to hear how much you all enjoyed your safari experience. I hope to work with you again in the near future.

Warm regards,
Katarina

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

The perfect honeymoon!

We could not have asked for a better trip, it was literally perfect! Going to another country can be a bit intimidating and Jessica had everything planned so we could be worry free. From the time we got off the plane and had someone waiting for us till the time we checked our bags to come back home we were completely taken care of. It was a stress free trip which allowed us to enjoy every second of the beautiful countries we were in. This is the second time I have booked through Mahlatini and I have nothing but incredible things to say. We live in the US and although there is a time difference Jessica always got back to me right away. This is the type of trip you get what you pay for, you get luxury and peace of mind. I will continue to use Mahlatini for other world adventures!

Jessica Mayberry was absolutely perfect, I would 100% request to have her book our next trip! We were on our honeymoon and she was able to add in a few extra special things to help us celebrate. When I first told her our dream honeymoon she offered several options that fit within our budget. Once we narrowed things down she made suggestions on things to do and see. She booked everything for us which helped put us at ease. While we were on our honeymoon we were actually surprised at how seamless things went in the airport, we had someone waiting for us, figured customs out for us, got our luggage and drove us to our hotel. It was amazing after such a long day of flying! Everything Jessica planned was planned perfectly, we can't thank her enough for making our honeymoon dream come true!

14 October 2024
Unprompted review
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Reply from Mahlatini Luxury Travel

Dear Kayla,

Thank you so much for your wonderful review! I’m thrilled to hear your honeymoon was everything you dreamed of and that you felt completely taken care of throughout your journey.

It’s been a pleasure planning your trip and I can’t wait to help you plan your next adventure.

Warm regards,
Jessica

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

10/10 experience with Mahlatini

Thanks to Mahlatini, we just spent the most memorable time in South Africa on our honeymoon. Gemma was extremely helpful and very attentive to our wants and needs, and meticulously arranged the whole trip for us. There were no hiccups whatsoever - everything was well taken care of.

4 November 2024
Unprompted review
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Reply from Mahlatini Luxury Travel

Hi Ayesha & Muneeb,

Thank you for your kind review! We're thrilled to hear you had such an amazing time and can't wait to help plan your next adventure.

Warm regards,
Gemma

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Excellent honeymoon booked by Mahlatini…

Excellent honeymoon booked by Mahlatini travel - incredible two weeks that was planned perfectly!

19 October 2024
Unprompted review
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Reply from Mahlatini Luxury Travel

Many thanks Sam, it was a pleasure planning this with you two.
I am delighted you enjoyed both countries so much.

Regards,
Stuart & the Mahlatini family

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Amazing honeymoon

We used Mahlatini to organise our honeymoon to Kenya and Zanzibar and were hugely impressed with their service. Dave listened to what we wanted, advised on options and put together a bespoke itinerary. All of his advice turned out to be spot on, and the organisation of the various different elements of the holiday, including several flights, was seamless. The accommodation he chose for us at Saruni Wild and the Amani Hotel in Paje was perfect. All in all we had an incredible and unforgettable honeymoon. It would have been really difficult to put this trip together ourselves, but using Mahlatini made it a simple and stress free experience and we would certainly recommend using them for special holidays where you need everything to be right.

1 October 2024
Unprompted review
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Reply from Mahlatini Luxury Travel

Dear Max & Liz, thank you for taking the time to provide such a wonderful review. It was an absolute please assisting in planning your incredible honeymoon and I look forward to assisting you with your next great journey.

Warm regards,
Dave

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Our honeymoon with Mahlatini Travel…

Our honeymoon with Mahlatini Travel Experts, exploring the stunning beauty of Mauritius and the thrilling wilderness of a South African safari, was nothing short of extraordinary. From the moment we arrived, every detail was meticulously planned, allowing us to fully relax and enjoy each experience. In Mauritius, we were captivated by the pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and luxury accommodations that created a truly idyllic, romantic setting. The resort they chose for us was top-notch, with excellent service and a perfect balance between relaxation and adventure. The safari in South Africa was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. We were guided by knowledgeable experts who made each game drive fascinating and memorable. The thrill of seeing lions, elephants, and rhinos in their natural habitat was surreal, and Mahlatini ensured we stayed in a luxurious lodge that blended seamlessly with the wild surroundings. Mahlatini‘s attention to detail, personal touch, and seamless coordination made our honeymoon a dream come true

Ralph took the time to understand our preferences and tailored the perfect itinerary that suited both relaxation and adventure. His recommendations for luxury accommodations and exclusive safari experiences were spot on. Throughout the planning process, Ralph was responsive, knowledgeable, and proactive, ensuring we were fully prepared for every aspect of our journey. Thank you, Ralph, for turning our honeymoon dreams into a reality! We couldn’t have asked for a better travel expert to help us create such lasting memories.

14 September 2024
Unprompted review
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Reply from Mahlatini Luxury Travel

Dear Morgan and Seth,

Thanks for your wonderful feedback. Africa is truly a magical place and I’m so glad you had an incredible trip! It was great working with you on this itinerary and I am so happy you experienced so much, from rhino sightings to trail races - and more!

Warm regards,
Ralph

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Exceeded expectations

It is rare that one can find a travel company that they can totally trust unless it is by word of mouth. We selected Mahlatini based upon our own internet research after having such trouble finding an agent in our own country who could provide the luxury Safari experience we wanted. We took the punt and chose Mahlatini, so, so pleased we did. Our agent, Karen, was spot on with everything she recommended and organised for us, utmost professional organisation that we will certainly use again. Thanks Team!

21 August 2024
Unprompted review
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Reply from Mahlatini Luxury Travel

Deborah thank you so much for the lovely review and for putting your trust in me and Mahlatini Luxury Travel to deliver on your expectations of a luxury holiday. It was an absolute pleasure working with both you and John and I am so very happy your trip to Africa was everything you expected it to be.

Warm regards,
Karen

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Amazing holiday Elephant Plains & AsDunas

I can’t say enough about Donna at Mahlatini; she was recommended to us by our friends Deb & Lou. Donna had arranged their honeymoon for them. So we contacted Donna, she has been great, advising us, keeping us updated, we had a teams meeting prior to travel to go through our itinerary, she contacted us during travels to make sure everything was going well and Donna even sent a welcome home message.
End to end we couldn’t ask for more. Donna you rock 😜 and Mahlatini of course.

26 July 2024
Unprompted review
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Reply from Mahlatini Luxury Travel

Thanks Sue and Neil, so happy to hear you enjoyed your first-time safari, and you had some truly incredible experiences. Thank you for taking much needed supplies out to the community in Mozambique, I'm sure that was deeply appreciated. Hope to work with you again on a new adventure soon.

Warm regards,
Donna

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Absolutely out of this world!

Absolutely out of this world. We truly had an amazing experience., I haven't stopped talking about our holiday since we have been home. When we had our first trip with Mahlatini we thought it would never be topped, but our last was even better. Africa has stolen our hearts, and I can't wait for the next visit. All aspects of the trip were covered, the transfers were excellent, we had on the ground representatives waiting for us after each flight. The lodges were outstanding, and the whole experience has been top notch.

Donna smashed it out of the park again. She built our holiday around exactly what we asked for, and it was perfectly tailored to our needs. We can't thank Donna enough for organising the amazing holiday we have been on. Donna always has the answers for any questions that we ask, gives advice from her experiences, and is just wonderful!! Every step of the holiday was planned with precision, so we could just pack our bags and go, and not have to worry about anything, which makes the holiday that extra bit special.

26 July 2024
Unprompted review
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Reply from Mahlatini Luxury Travel

Thanks Deb & Lou, it was such fun working on this with you and I was delighted to hear that it even surpassed the extremely high bar set by your first trip to Africa with Mahlatini. I can't wait to work with you on your next adventure to Kenya, stay in touch 🙂

Warm regards,
Donna

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Once in a lifetime trip.

Once in a lifetime trip.

We cannot thank Caroline enough for going through different options and putting together the perfect honeymoon for us. Mahlatini and Caroline really understood what we wanted to experience on this trip and knocked it out of the park. Thank you guys so much!

4 July 2024
Unprompted review
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Reply from Mahlatini Luxury Travel

Dear Jake & Kendra,

Thank you so much for the incredible review, I am so so happy that you had a special honeymoon. It was my pleasure curating the perfect itinerary for you. Wishing you both a lifetime of happiness together!

Warm regards,
Caroline

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Helped plan a perfect honeymoon!

For a vacation that should feel like a "once in a lifetime" trip, this certainly lived up to the name. We can't thank Ashley with Mahlatini enough for their dedication and attention to detail! From our first conversations through the trip itself, talking with Ashley felt like speaking with a familiar friend. With planning, all of his recommendations were excellent, and the entire experience was magical. We went back and forth between different experiences and lodges, and Ashley was accommodating to all of our questions until we had the perfect trip booked. We felt like we had 3 totally different vacations all rolled into one, and the level of service along the way was unparalleled. Between the lodgings, the locations, the food, the adventure, and the amount of time recommended for each portion of the trip, we really felt like Ashley somehow put together everything that we didn't quite know how to articulate about what we would hope to see in a honeymoon, and translated it all into the perfect trip. Throughout the trip Ashley always checked in and let us know any updates along the way. Thank you!

6 March 2024
Unprompted review
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Reply from Mahlatini Luxury Travel

Dear Rachel & Nick,

I am so pleased that you had the most wonderful honeymoon and that you have created the memories of a lifetime. It was such a pleasure working with you and helping create the perfect once-in-a-lifetime honeymoon trip.

Warm regards,
Ashley

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Amazing South Africa Honeymoon

We had the most amazing time in South Africa and can only hope to go back again in the future. We loved cape town, the food was amazing and we only just scratched the surface of what it has to offer. The safari leg was out of this world and created memories we will cherish for ever. The structure of the holiday and service Mahlatini provided meant we didn’t have to worry about a thing and we felt special on our honeymoon - thank you!

2 March 2024
Unprompted review
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Reply from Mahlatini Luxury Travel

Hi Matthew and Francesca,

It was an absolute pleasure working with you on this itinerary, I know that the memories formed will be with you forever and Africa cannot wait to welcome you back in the future!

Warm regards,
Dave

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

FIRST TIME SAFARI

FIRST TIME SAFARI



Aaron’s choice of lodges was superb, truly magical places. The accommodations at Chitwa Chitwa and Dulini River Lodge were impeccable, both highly spacious and luxurious. The food, service, and staff were all top-notch and there was never anything that was too much to ask. The game viewing at both lodges surpassed our expectations. A difficult trip made easy, a seamless booking experience. I will be booking my next safari with Mahlatini Luxury Travel.

25 November 2023
Unprompted review
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Reply from Mahlatini Luxury Travel

Hi Christine and Ian,

Thank you for your kind words. I enjoyed assisting you both in designing your perfect safari experience and I am delighted to hear that it surpassed your expectations. I look forward to your next enquiry!

Kindest regards,
Aaron

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Fantastic service for an awesome trip

Fantastic service for an awesome trip. So much better to have the experts putting it all together for you with very transfer and booking perfectly done.

1 December 2023
Unprompted review
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Reply from Mahlatini Luxury Travel

Hi Colin,

Thank you so much for your wonderful review. It was an absolute pleasure working with you on your trip to the Maasai Mara and I am glad you had such an awesome time. I hope you will travel with us again soon, as there is still so much to see!

Warm regards,
Odette

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

I had the trip of a lifetime to Zambia…

I had the trip of a lifetime to Zambia - wonderful wildlife, seamless service and memories that will last a lifetime. Mahlatini did a spectacular job in coordinating my trip to the Lower Zambezi National Park and South Luangawa. Thank you Caroline and team.

25 June 2023
Unprompted review
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Reply from Mahlatini Luxury Travel

Dear Paul,

It was an absolute pleasure. I’m so happy that you have now experienced the beauty of the Lower Zambezi & South Luangwa. We hope that those memories will last a lifetime & that you will travel with us again, there is still so much to see and explore.

Take care and warm regards,
Caroline

Rated 1 out of 5 stars

Avoid at all costs.

The agents (Caroline and Dave) have been so awful. They call at inappropriate times (7 am, 1 am) and suggest itineraries that aren't what you ask for (probably to make more money). They made a provisional booking on a date I didn't ask for, and although I have reached out and clearly said for over a week that I will not work with them, the provisional booking is now preventing me from booking my trip with the lodge I want. They did not help me the create a custom itinerary, so they were unhelpful, and holding space for weeks for someone who isn't working with them seems unethical - both in terms of how it impacts the client, but also the lodges. It took repeated calls and emails to get them to clear up the issue, where I was lied to multiple times, so they are dishonest.

9 January 2024
Unprompted review
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Most incredible travel experience EVER!

I truly can't believe how brilliantly our African safari went. My expectations were sky-high - the trip was supposed to happen in 2020 and had been long-delayed and rescheduled several times. I was SO excited about it. And yet, the actual experience blew away those out-of-control expectations. It was truly magical!

I really can't say enough about how wonderful Claire was. We had a loooong planning journey. On our last call she mentioned that we had started talking to her about this trip in 2018! She never once made us feel any pressure, and she was always, always willing to answer questions or think about ways to improve our itinerary. I've honestly never had such a positive experience with any travel-related professional. She is a gem, and I'm telling everyone I know to go on safari and have Claire plan it!

19 December 2023
Unprompted review
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Reply from Mahlatini Luxury Travel

Thank you so much for your wonderful feedback, Laura! I will genuinely miss our catch-ups and planning! It was such a joy working with both families and next time I am coming with 😊

Warm regards,
Claire

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Mahlatini are Fantastic

Mahlatini were fantastic to work with. Back in March 2020, our agent Claire Picknell sorted out everything when our trip had to be postponed due to covid. We finally managed to get away on our trip in Oct 2023 and it really was a holiday of a life time and everything was perfect!! Thanks guys

27 October 2023
Unprompted review
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Reply from Mahlatini Luxury Travel

Hi Karen,

Thank you so much for your lovely review. It was our absolute pleasure to assist and we are delighted we got you there finally!

Warm regards,
Claire

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Once in a lifetime experience that we didn't want to leave behind

An incredible experience from start to finish. The planning was made extremely easy by Stuart and the Mahlatini team and the attention to detail for every little part of our journey was incredible. Both locations we stayed at were top notch and we really were sad to leave on the last day. The safari experience blew me away every single day and I highly recommend Chitwa Chitwa as the resort to stay at for this. Seychelles was an idyllic tropical destination to relax and play in the sand after a few hectic days of animal watching. Can't believe its over and can't wait to do it again.

3 October 2023
Unprompted review
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Reply from Mahlatini Luxury Travel

Thanks Sid, ultimately I am delighted you two had such a good time – that is my goal. I know our operations team will appreciate a mention; they work hard behind the scenes to ensure all goes smoothly.

I am delighted you have caught the bug for safari, and I would love to help you plan your next one; whenever you are ready!

Warm regards,
Stuart

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Our Dreams Come True

This was by far the most amazing tour we have ever experienced. From start to finish we felt completely at ease. Everything was first rate. Accommodations were outstanding and all of the meals 5-star. The planning and attention to detail was superior. But, the most memorable part of our journey are the people that we met who made our dreams come true. Every person, including camp managers, servers, driver/guides, housekeepers, greeters, even pilots were amazing. We have fallen in love with the African people. Their quiet spirit is infectious. Everyone had the most amazing smile and a Jambo, Jambo greeting. We will never forget them or this trip.

14 September 2023
Unprompted review
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Reply from Mahlatini Luxury Travel

Jambo Sharon, thank you for the positive feedback on your special trip! Always a pleasure to work with enthusiastic clients and help to create lifelong memories. Africa is truly something precious and looks forward to your return.

Till next time, all the best,
Natasha Morris

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