As fourth generation of the Seth-Smith family to make Kenya his home following in the footsteps of both his grandfather and father as a Ker & Downey guide, it is no surprise that the African bush runs in Matt’s genetics. Great grandson to one of the early Kenyan pioneer farmers who helped shape Kenya’s agriculture alongside the famous Lord Delamare, and grandson to a famed ‘Great White Hunter’ and now impassioned conservationist, Matt’s devotion to safaris and conservation originates from an extensive historical family tree. 

Matt was brought up amidst the buzz of packing and unpacking safari trucks, and often joined his father Martin Seth-Smith on safari during school holidays. Learning his bushcraft not only from his father but also his grandfather’s game trackers, he has acquired a sharp eye not only for wildlife but all the components that make a trip special. As well as spending integral moments beside his father in the bush, he also assisted him on film sets as location manager all the while running large film camps. 

Following his education at Ampleforth College in the UK and then the Royal Agricultural College in Cirencester, Matt worked in floriculture before returning to his first great love of living in the bush and being on safari. Between safari seasons, Matt manages one of Kenya’s most prestigious lodges in Laikipia spending any downtime roaming the conservation areas practicing his photography and videography skills. Also, an avid fisherman carrying his fishing rod with him wherever he goes, Matt has visited a plethora of dams and trout rivers across East Africa. Additionally, a competitive clay pigeon shot; another significant talent handed down in the Seth-Smith bloodlines.