Kyle Ray

Kyle Ray is a fifth-generation Kenyan, born and raised in Nairobi, whose lifelong fascination with the natural world has evolved into a highly specialised guiding career. From an early age, he was captivated by reptiles and the bush skills of his family. Holidays spent on his grandparents’ farm in Tanzania shaped his understanding of wildlife, where he learned about animal behaviour from his grandfather - himself a professional hunter and wildlife warden - and bushcraft from a Tindiga bushman. These formative experiences taught him how to move quietly through big game country and instilled a deep respect for the wild, including encounters with the formidable black mamba.

As a teenager, Kyle balanced his love for the outdoors with competitive motocross, representing Kenya in several events. When he was not racing, he could often be found fishing or searching for snakes. A two-week work placement at the Bio-Ken Snake Farm in Watamu proved pivotal, cementing his passion for herpetology. Under the mentorship of renowned herpetologist Royjan Taylor, Kyle immersed himself in the world of reptiles - handling snakes, attending seminars and learning the intricacies of snake behaviour and venom research. At one point, he was even entrusted with caring for snakes that required relocation inland, keeping them at his family home in Nairobi.

After completing his A-Levels, Kyle chose a path outside conventional academics and pursued practical field experience instead. He spent time working at the snake farm and training in guiding, including time at the historic Cottar’s 1920s Camp. As soon as he was eligible, he travelled to Botswana to undertake a walking guide qualification, where his deep knowledge of reptiles quickly distinguished him. During his time there, he shared his expertise with fellow trainees and guests, eventually being invited back as a training assistant and walking guide.

Over the years, Kyle has worked across Kenya and Tanzania as both a lodge manager and freelance guide. Alongside leading safaris, he has remained deeply committed to reptile conservation, regularly conducting community awareness talks and assisting with snake relocations to reduce human-wildlife conflict.

In 2019, following the sudden passing of his mentor Royjan Taylor, Kyle was asked by Royjan’s family to take over the running of the Watamu Snake Farm. As curator, he stepped into a leadership role within the herpetological community, working with researchers, medical professionals, and conservationists focused on snakebite treatment and reptile conservation. His work includes attending international conferences, contributing to discussions on snakebite mitigation and supporting education initiatives that help communities safely co-exist with snakes.

Today, Kyle leads specialised safaris across Kenya, focusing on reptiles, amphibians, and the smaller, often overlooked wildlife that many visitors miss. His trips explore diverse habitats - from the forests of Kakamega to the rocky landscapes of Rukinga and the coastal ecosystems of Kenya - offering guests an immersive perspective on the country’s lesser-known natural world.

Kyle’s safaris combine adventure, science, and storytelling. Few guides possess his depth of knowledge or enthusiasm for reptiles, and he relishes every opportunity to share this passion with guests. By shining a light on species that are frequently misunderstood or overlooked, Kyle offers a rare and compelling window into one of Africa’s most fascinating corners of the natural world.

Home location: Kenya

Guides in: Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania

Specialties: Herpetology

Daily rate: $$