Field Guide

SUMMARY:
We are seeking a passionate and dedicated Apprentice Trails Guide to join our guiding team. The successful candidate will assist in delivering exceptional wilderness and safari experiences while ensuring the highest standards of guest safety, environmental conservation, and hospitality. The ideal candidate will possess a strong work ethic, a genuine passion for wildlife and conservation, and the ability to integrate seamlessly into a professional guiding team.
Key Responsibilities
Guiding & Guest Experience

• Assist with conducting interpretive game drives and guided bush walks under the supervision of qualified Trails Guides where required.
• Deliver engaging, informative, and memorable wildlife experiences.
• Share knowledge of local flora, fauna, birdlife, ecology, and conservation practices with guests.
• Ensure guest safety and comfort throughout all guiding activities.
• Maintain professional communication and excellent guest service standards.

• Monitor animal movements and report significant wildlife sightings.
• Promote ethical guiding practices and responsible tourism.
• Assist with wildlife monitoring, conservation initiatives, and reserve management activities where required.
• Respect wildlife and adhere to reserve conservation policies at all times.

• Carry and maintain firearms in accordance with South African legislation and reserve protocols.
• Conduct safety briefings before bush walks and game activities.
• Ensure all safety equipment is in good working order.
• Administer First Aid when required.
• Comply with all Occupational Health & Safety regulations and lodge procedures.

• Assist with general lodge operations when not guiding.
• Support other departments during operational requirements.
• Maintain guiding vehicles and equipment in a clean and serviceable condition.
• Report maintenance issues promptly.
• Participate in staff training and conservation activities.

• Work collaboratively within a guiding team of 12–15 guides.
• Demonstrate professionalism, flexibility, and a willingness to assist wherever needed.
• Maintain positive relationships with guests and colleagues.
• Participate in ongoing training and skills development.

• Outstanding guest satisfaction.
• Compliance with safety and firearm regulations.
• Professional guiding standards.
• Strong teamwork and collaboration.
• Ethical environmental practices.
• Maintenance of guiding equipment and vehicles.
• Reliability, punctuality, and professionalism.

POSITION INFO:
Minimum Qualifications

• NQF Level 2 Nature Site Guide qualification or higher.
• Apprentice Trails Guide qualification or higher.
• VPDA (Vehicle Proficiency / Dangerous Animal qualification) advantageous where applicable.

• Previous guiding experience in a Big Five reserve or similar environment is advantageous.
• Practical bush experience and a passion for conservation.
• Experience working in a luxury lodge or safari environment will be beneficial.

• Valid South African Driver's Licence with a Professional Driving Permit (PDP).
• Valid First Aid Certificate.
• SAPS Competency Certificate for a manually operated rifle, including business purposes.
• Valid guiding qualifications and permits required by relevant authorities.

• Sound knowledge of South African wildlife, ecology, birdlife, and conservation.
• Excellent communication and guest interaction skills.
• Strong navigation and bush awareness.
• Understanding of ethical guiding principles.
• Ability to remain calm under pressure.
• Good problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
• Ability to work independently and within a team.

• Passion for wildlife, conservation, and outdoor living.
• High level of integrity and professionalism.
• Positive attitude with a strong willingness to learn.
• Physically fit and capable of walking long distances in the bush.
• Flexible and adaptable to changing operational needs.
• Strong work ethic and willingness to assist in all areas of lodge operations.
• Team-oriented with excellent interpersonal skills.

• Live-in position based in Hamanskraal.
• Six weeks on, followed by two weeks off.
• Work includes weekends, public holidays, early mornings, evenings, and extended hours when required.
• Outdoor work in varying weather conditions and potentially hazardous wildlife environments.
• Physically demanding role requiring walking, driving, and carrying equipment.

• Market-related salary (depending on qualifications and experience).
• Live-in accommodation provided.
• Two meals provided daily.
• Uniform provided.
• Six weeks on / two weeks off work cycle.
• Ongoing training and development opportunities within a professional guiding team.