Back up Trails- Field Guide

Bushwise; Vaalwater; On-site; ZAR 134,000 - 167,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

On-site accommodation

Meals provided

Mentorship in luxury lodge management

Job summary

Bushwise seeks a passionate junior guide in Vaalwater, South Africa, to lead game drives and walk safaris in a premier bushveld environment. The role offers a clear path to Relief Management responsibilities when lodge managers are away.

The ideal candidate has at least 2 years in active guiding, FGASA qualifications, PrDP, First Aid, and rifle competency. On-site accommodation and meals are provided, with mentorship in luxury lodge management.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 2 years of experience in active field guiding and backing up trails.

Responsibilities

• Guide and conduct professional, informative game drives and back-up walking safaris.
• Deliver world-class hospitality and ensure unforgettable experiences for international and local guests.
• Oversee daily lodge operations and guest logistics during management leave cycles.

Skills

Strong work ethic

Excellent communication skills

Positive attitude

Willingness to take on management

Education

FGASA qualifications relevant to guiding and trails back-up

First Aid Certificate

PrDP (Public Driver’s Permit)

Rifle Competency certificates

Tools

Firearm proficiency certificates

Job description

Vaalwater, South Africa | Posted on 10/21/2026

Are you a passionate, motivated junior guide looking to elevate your career in a unique bushveld environment? A premier luxury safari property in the Waterberg is seeking a dedicated Guide & Back-up Trails Guide who is eager to learn, grow, and step into leadership.

This role is perfect for a driven individual looking to expand their skill set, offering a clear pathway to take on Relief Management responsibilities when the lodge managers are away.

Key Responsibilities

• Guiding & Trails: Conduct professional, informative, and safe game drives and back-up walking safaris.
• Guest Relations: Deliver world-class hospitality, ensuring an unforgettable, personalized experience for international and local guests.
• Relief Management: Oversee daily lodge operations, guest logistics, and team supervision during management leave cycles.
• Property & Conservation Support: Assist with general lodge hosting, conservation initiatives, and day-to-day camp requirements.

Requirements & Qualifications

• Experience: Minimum of 2 years of experience in active field guiding and backing up trails.

Qualifications

• Valid FGASA qualifications relevant to guiding and trails back-up.
• Valid PrDP (Public Driver’s Permit).
• Valid First Aid Certificate.
• Valid Rifle Competency and relevant firearm proficiency certificates.
• Attributes: A strong work ethic, positive attitude, excellent communication skills, and a genuine eagerness to take on hospitality management responsibilities.
• Advantageous: Prior experience in luxury hospitality or previous relief management exposure.

Please note: Preference will be given to Employment Equity (EE) candidates.

What We Offer

• A competitive salary of R12,000 – R15,000 PM based on experience.
• On-site accommodation and meals.
• A supportive, growth-oriented environment with direct mentorship in luxury lodge management.