Kelly Mattin
Kelly Mattin
SPECIALIST CONSULTANT
Kelly grew up in London but spent a significant portion of her childhood in both Ireland and Cyprus. At age 19 she backpacked around Asia; finally ending up in Sydney, Australia where she lived for the next 7 years. During this time, she gained a diploma in Maths and Economics from the University of New South Wales, and a degree in Tourism Management from the University of Technology Sydney.
After heading back to London, Kelly worked in the City within the financial sector as an international events organiser. In 2010 she took a very last-minute safari to Kenya and Tanzania, which led to her falling head over heels in love with the African continent. Deciding that she needed to explore more, she left London and took a job as an overland tour leader, based in Cape Town. She spent the next 5 years leading long-haul camping trips through 9 African countries, and has spent significant time in South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Malawi, Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda and Mauritius. Returning to the UK in 2015 Kelly joined the African Tourism industry, honing her skills as a specialist Africa consultant, before joining Safari Consultants in 2022. Outside of work, Kelly enjoys cooking (and all things food related!), as well as exploring more of the UK with her Namibian partner.
Kelly’s top 3 EXPERIENCES
A helicopter flight over the Okavango Delta
This was such a phenomenal and exhilarating experience. In my opinion the Okavango is one of the most beautiful places on earth, and to be able to see it from the air was truly breathtaking. I took my flight in mid-May, which is traditionally a time when the flood waters are high in the Okavango. This particular year the flood was both low and late so had not made its way to the southern reaches of the Delta (where I was staying). From the air I was actually able to see the flood waters creeping in, which was just astounding.
Gorilla trekking in Uganda
This is quite simply one of the most amazing and humbling experiences I have ever had, it actually moved me to tears. Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is a beautiful place, so lush, green and vibrant. After trekking for two hours, we found our Gorilla family who were just incredible to share space with. They were relaxed, calm and very inquisitive, spending a full hour with them was an absolute privilege and something I’ll cherish forever.
Exploring vibrant Cape Town
For me Cape Town is one of the most beautiful city’s I have ever visited and it has so much to offer. The natural beauty of it is unmissable, with Table Mountain presiding over the city on one side and the brilliant blue waters of the Atlantic framing it on the other. The food scene is incredible, and the Winelands are among the best in the world. Venture slightly further out and you can go whale watching in Hermanus, hiking at Cape Point or visit the penguins at Boulders Beach – the list is endless!
Kelly’s Favourite Places To Stay
Camp Kalahari, Makgadikgadi Pans, Botswana
One of only three properties located in the hauntingly beautiful expanse of the Makgadikgadi salt pans. This adventurous style camp has a super sociable atmosphere and offers a phenomenal array of activities. From game driving and walking with the local Zu/’hoasi Bushman, to quad biking across the largest salt pans in the world and visiting with the areas habituated meerkats. No one day is the same here and it makes for a truly unique and memorable stay.
Waterberry Lodge, Livingstone, Zambia
Located about 20 kms upstream from Victoria Falls, this charming little lodge is set in an idyllic location on the banks of the mighty Zambezi River. The atmosphere is relaxed and peaceful, and the hosting is personal and friendly – nothing is too much trouble here! Waterberry is the ideal place to relax and unwind after the excitement of a safari, and it also offers a great range of activities for those who prefer to keep a little busier!
Lewa Wilderness, Lewa Conservancy, Kenya
Home to the Craig family for several generations, this iconic lodge welcomed it’s first guests in 1972 and is renowned for its pioneering conservation initiatives. Set in the stunning Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, the lodge features stunning views, a down to earth atmosphere and feeling of understated elegance. The game viewing here is fantastic and is particularly good for seeing rhino.
