RYAN SAKINOFSKY

Ryan's enthusiasm is like a pot of boiling water on a stove - it is always bubbling and always overflowing. This enthusiasm and a wicked sense of humour is what keeps Ryan's guests coming back for more. For Ryan, guiding and Africa's wildlife was a calling that he could not ignore. Having first obtained a B.SC in Conservation & Ecology guiding was the next logical step for him to get out into the great wilderness and spend each day living out his dream.

He's more than a little (Wild) Dog obsessed...

Ryan’s journey from the leafy suburbs of Johannesburg to becoming the latest member of the Martin Meyer Safaris Private Guiding Team is a testament to his unwavering passion for wildlife and conservation. With an impressive background in both ecology and dog behaviour, Ryan brings a unique blend of skills and dedication to his role as a guide.

Growing up amidst the tranquil ambiance of Johannesburg's suburbs, Ryan's affinity for wildlife was apparent from a tender age. He was that kid who preferred observing the neighbourhood birds and squirrels to video games. His fascination with animals and the natural world became a defining trait of his childhood.



As a young man, Ryan embarked on a transformative journey when he volunteered his time with Green Dogs Conservation in Alldays. It was here that he gained invaluable insights into the pivotal role that K9s play in mitigating human-wildlife conflicts. This experience was a revelation, solidifying his desire to dedicate his life to conservation and wildlife protection.


Following his matriculation, Ryan's educational journey led him to the University of the Witwatersrand, where he pursued an Honours Degree in Conservation and Ecology. Here, he delved deep into the intricacies of ecological systems, honing his understanding of the delicate balance that sustains our planet's biodiversity. This academic foundation provided him with the knowledge he would later apply in the field.



While pursuing his degree, Ryan also found time to immerse himself in the world of dog sports. His passion for dogs led him to complete a series of Dog Behavior Qualifications, further enhancing his expertise in understanding canine behavior. He spent considerable time at a local training center, becoming a respected figure in the world of dog enthusiasts


After completing his academic journey, Ryan ventured into the corporate world, where he worked closely with veterinarians across the northern and central regions of South Africa. This experience not only allowed him to gain invaluable professional skills but also reinforced his love for animals, especially dogs. His time in the corporate sector marked a significant phase in his career, where he bridged the gap between academic knowledge and practical application.


Throughout his life, Ryan's dual passions for dogs and wildlife had been intertwined, each feeding the other. It was only a matter of time before he made a resolute decision to combine these passions into a meaningful career. He set his sights on achieving his FGASA (Field Guides Association of Southern Africa) qualification at Bushwise South Africa, a prestigious certification that would open the door to a career in guiding.


With Ryan as a guide clients can expect not only an educational and immersive experience but also a genuine passion for the natural world that surrounds them. Ryan  is more than a guide; he's a storyteller, a conservationist, and a true advocate for the beauty and importance of our natural world.



Get to know your Guide - Ryan Sakinofsky

  • If you could have any wild animal as a sidekick on your safaris, which one would it be and why?

    I think African Wild Dog. Wild Dogs represent loyalty, determination and strength. Also, who wouldn’t want a sidekick with ears like that?

  • What's your all-time favourite safari destination, and what makes it so special to you?

    Mapungubwe National Park. For me, a safari is so much more than time spent at sightings. I love when you can feel the history of an area pulsing through you, calling you to explore and find out more. In this regard, it does not get better than Mapungubwe. It then goes a step further with landscapes that take your breath away.

  • What's the most extraordinary wildlife encounter you've ever had while on a safari, and how did it leave an impact on you?

    Jackal puppies denning in a termite mound! It was one of those sightings where you have to ask “Did I really just see that?”. It was a reminder that not everything is as it seems but to look further than what is right in front of my eyes.

  • Which safari experience do you find most exhilarating - tracking big cats, observing elephants at a waterhole, or bird-watching in a lush forest?

    Definitely tracking big cats. I love puzzling together the story of what happened and which characters are involved in the story.

  • If you had to sum up your passion for guiding and the wild in one sentence, what would it be?

    Never ending.

  • If you could have any superpower on safari, what would it be?

    The power to know where every animal is. This stems from a conservation point. Its important for us to know what animals surround us in order for us to conserve them properly.

  • What's the most unusual or funny wildlife behaviour you've ever witnessed?

    Mongoose are always good for funny behaviour. We had arrived back at camp under the watchful gaze of some dwarf mongoose. They were quite intent on people watching until one pushed past them all, stretched out and lay flat on its stomach in the sun. The rest of the group very quickly went about their business, almost like they knew we caught them staring.

  • If you were to lead a safari for your favourite celebrity, who would it be, and what kind of safari experience would you plan for them?

    Selena Gomez. I have had a crush on her for the longest time. I would plan a conservation based safari in the hopes we can inspire her and her fans to help us conserve the natural environment.

  • Which destination is still on your bucket list and why?

    Masai Mara. Every nature lover has seen pictures of the Masai Mara and I don’t think it does the area justice. You need to be on the ground to feel the raw power that surges through it.

  • What legacy do you want to leave behind ?

    I want all my guests to leave their safaris with me having learnt something new and a renewed passion for the natural world. If we can all regain our passion, I know we can do what is right.

Join the pack! African Wild Dogs have nothing on our adventure-loving crew. Book your safari today and run with the wildest pack in Africa!

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