WATCH: Farrarmere’s Cameron loves to walk on the wild side

A lone acacia tree stands guard as a pack of tail-wagging Yorkshire terriers tussles in its shade.

Within the quiet confines of his Farrarmere property lives an explorer, adventurer and guardian of nature. He is a man who has travelled across Africa, yet always finds his heart in Benoni.

Armed with a camera, Cameron Scott, owner and founder of Royal Ngala Safaris, spent much of his youth winding through the dusty roads of the Kruger National Park, capturing striking images of its wild residents.

“Those trips with my dad sparked a deep love for the bush,” said the wildlife photographer and professional guide.

“Whether it was the memories we created or witnessing wildlife at its purest, I knew then that I wanted a career that kept my feet in the dust.”

In 2013, Cameron moved into a tented camp at Lion Sands Game Reserve, Sabie Park, to complete his wildlife guide training.

“After qualifying, I secured a permanent post at the reserve. I was living my dream, but long periods away from my son, Colten (13), made me yearn for home.”

Cameron later completed a photography course, merging his passions into a fulfilling career. In 2019, he founded Royal Ngala Safaris, a bespoke luxury travel company focused on ethical wildlife encounters.

“Many of the destinations I offer stem from my own desire to explore and connect with rare species,” he said.

“Through storytelling and nature’s lessons, I help guests experience her majesty without disturbing her balance.”

Behind the lens, Cameron captures the essence of each moment so clients can remain present.

“Nature offers a deep, fleeting connection. If you’re focused on the perfect shot, you might miss it,” said Cameron, whose photography has appeared in the UK’s The Telegraph.

“I capture those powerful moments for guests. These images allow them to share their unfiltered experiences later on.”

From the African plains to the jungles of Brazil, Cameron has photographed panthers, gorillas and jaguars. His safaris have attracted guests from the UK, USA and Australia, including well-known names like adventurer Bear Grylls, Princess Charlene of Monaco and Springbok captain Siya Kolisi.

But for Cameron, it is not about status.

“It’s about the experience guests seek,” he explained.

“I want them to connect with nature in its purest form, to return home spiritually enriched and humbled. When you’re truly immersed, the bush speaks to you. It lets your heart rest.”

With his wife, Taryn, managing logistics, Cameron has turned his passion into a thriving business. One day, he hopes to welcome his son into the fold.

“I have treasured memories of time in the bush with my dad,” he said, his eyes resting on a photo of his late father.

“He passed away shortly before I launched my business, but I carry his memory with me wherever I go. I hope to share that same love and knowledge with Colten, in a way my father and I never fully could.”

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