Archie Rutherford—known to many as “Ranger Buck,” a nickname given to him many years ago—is the heart and soul behind Ranger Buck Safaris. His connection to Africa’s wilderness began early, spending countless holidays on his grandparents’ game farm along the Limpopo River bordering Zimbabwe. Those formative years, together with frequent family trips into the Kruger National Park, sparked a lifelong passion for wildlife, conservation, and the untamed beauty of Africa.

Today, Archie brings decades of experience, exploration, and trusted relationships across Southern and East Africa to every safari he curates. As a hands-on founder, he remains deeply involved in designing bespoke itineraries, ensuring every journey is seamless, exclusive, and filled with authentic, meaningful experiences.

His passion extends beyond luxury travel. Archie believes every safari should foster a deeper appreciation for Africa’s natural heritage and contribute toward the protection of its wildlife and wild spaces.

Under his leadership, Ranger Buck Safaris has become synonymous with personalised, high-end safari experiences built on genuine passion, deep knowledge, and exceptional attention to detail.

With over 29 years of experience exploring the rich and diverse landscapes of Southern Africa, Maria brings both expertise and genuine passion to her role as Senior Travel Advisor at Ranger Buck Safaris.

Her love for Africa extends beyond its remarkable wildlife to the people, cultures, landscapes, and unforgettable moments that define the continent. Having travelled extensively throughout the region, Maria has developed a deep appreciation for authentic safari experiences and the natural beauty that makes Africa so unique.

Known for her warm approach and attention to detail, she takes great pride in creating journeys that capture the true spirit of Africa—immersive, personal, and unforgettable. Whether it’s witnessing a dramatic African sunset, exploring remote wilderness areas, or connecting travellers with extraordinary safari experiences, Maria is passionate about helping guests fall in love with Africa just as she has.

Tayla was born and raised in SA and has just recently moved to Australia to set up our office there. Based in Wollongong, Australia, Tayla Potgieter specialises in crafting bespoke African itineraries with a strong focus on South Africa, Rwanda, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Namibia, and Zambia. Her passion lies in creating seamless, high-end journeys that combine luxury, adventure, and authentic wildlife experiences.

From an early age, Tayla’s love for Africa and the wild was shaped through stories of game ranging and time spent immersed in the bush. Those early experiences fostered a lasting connection to wildlife and conservation, inspiring the path she follows today.

At Ranger Buck Safaris, Tayla channels that passion into designing deeply personalised safaris tailored to each client’s vision—whether it’s tracking the Big Five, exploring Namibia’s dramatic landscapes, or unwinding in a luxury lodge surrounded by wilderness.

Her goal is to create journeys that are not only unforgettable, but that leave travellers with a genuine connection to Africa and its extraordinary natural beauty.

Kamo Skosana is a dedicated Travel Advisor with a growing passion for showcasing the beauty and diversity of Southern Africa. Beginning her career as an intern at a tour operator, she has steadily developed her expertise within the travel industry, specialising in journeys across South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe, and Zambia.

Her approach to safari planning is centred around personalised service, attention to detail, and creating experiences that feel entirely unique to each traveller. Whether designing a luxury safari, family adventure, or first-time African journey, Kamo is passionate about ensuring every itinerary is seamless, meaningful, and unforgettable.

Her love for the bush and wildlife continues to inspire her work, with every safari experience deepening her appreciation for Africa’s untamed beauty and remarkable wildlife encounters.