SUMMARY:
A well-established luxury lodge within a Big 5 private game reserve is seeking either an experienced SENIOR HEAD GUIDE or COUPLE for their property.
POSITION INFO:
The property will consider a solo Head Guide or a couple where one partner fulfils a guiding role and the other oversees reservations, duty management, and front-of-house operations. They are based in KwaZulu Natal and this will suit passionate, professional individuals who thrive in hands-on environments and are committed to high standards of safety, conservation, and guest experience.
Role 1: Senior Head Guide/Trails
Core Criteria:
- FGASA Field Guide (NQF2) – Level 1 minimum (Level 2 preferred)
- FGASA Apprentice Trails or Full Trails qualification (Full Trails preferred)
- Valid PDP, First Aid certification, and SAPS rifle competency
- 3–5 years’ experience guiding in a Big 5 reserve
- Strong leadership, mentoring, and guest hosting skills
- High level of safety awareness and professionalism
- Passion for conservation and environmental education
Candidate Responsibilities:
- Lead interpretive game drives and guided bush walks in a Big 5 environment
- Mentor and support junior guides, ensuring guiding standards are upheld
- Manage guiding equipment including vehicles, rifles, radios, and trails gear
- Enforce reserve rules, safety protocols, and best practice standards
- Represent the lodge at reserve meetings and conservation initiatives
- Contribute to exceptional guest experiences through professional hosting
Package:
- Competitive salary based on experience and Trails qualification
(Approximately R15,000 – R19,000, negotiable) - Live-in position (single en-suite accommodation)
- Meals on duty (21 days on / 9 days off cycle)
- Uniform and laundry provided
- Ongoing training and development
- Tips
Role 2: Reservations & Duty Manager
This is an all-rounder lodge role combining reservations, front-office operations, guest relations, stock control, and administrative duties. The ideal candidate is organised, guest-focused, and comfortable managing multiple operational functions within a remote lodge setting.
Core Criteria:
- Minimum 2–3 years’ lodge or hospitality experience
(reservations, front office, or duty management) - Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Strong organisational ability and attention to detail
- Computer literacy: MS Office, email, and lodge booking systems
(NightsBridge or similar preferred) - Professional appearance and self-motivated work ethic
- Valid driver’s license and own transport preferred
- Warm, approachable, and service-oriented
- Reliable, honest, and solution-driven under pressure
- Flexible and adaptable to changing operational demands
- Passionate about hospitality, nature, and conservation
Package:
- Competitive salary based on experience
(Approximately R8,000 – R12,000) - Live-in position (single en-suite accommodation)
- Meals on duty (21 days on / 9 days off cycle)
- Uniform and laundry provided
- Tips
- Supportive team environment with opportunities for growth
