Head Guide

HotelJobs; Bela-Bela; On-site; ZAR 300,000 - 420,000; Full time

Job summary

HotelJobs is seeking a Head Guide to oversee all guiding operations at a luxury reserve and five-star lodge. You will lead the Field Guides, coordinate safaris, ensure guest safety and wildlife interpretation.

The role includes training, vehicle oversight, collaboration with other departments, and promoting conservation ethics while delivering exceptional safari experiences.

Qualifications

• DEAT / Nature Conservation Registration required.
• Valid South African Driver’s Licence.
• Valid Professional Driving Permit (PDP).
• First Aid Certificate Level 2 preferred.
• FGASA Level 2 or higher qualification.
• Advanced Rifle Competency (SAPS).
• SASSETA Certification (where applicable).
• Valid International Driver’s Permit (if applicable).
• Minimum 5 years guiding experience in a game reserve.
• Previous supervisory or leadership experience in guiding preferred.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the daily operation of all safari activities including game drives and guided bush walks.
• Coordinate safari schedules and guide allocations to ensure efficient operations.
• Ensure safari activities operate in accordance with reserve policies and SOPs.
• Ensure guiding activities maintain the highest safety and professionalism.
• Monitor guest feedback relating to safari experiences and implement improvements.

Skills

Leadership experience

Guest safety management

Wildlife interpretation

Staff mentoring

Guiding operations

Education

DEAT / Nature Conservation Registration

South African Driver’s Licence

Professional Driving Permit (PDP)

First Aid Certificate (Level 2)

FGASA Level 2 or higher

Advanced Rifle Competency (SAPS)

SASSETA Certification (where applicable)

International Driver’s Permit (if applicable)

Job description

Scope and General Purpose

The Head Guide is responsible for overseeing all guiding operations within the reserve and ensuring the delivery of exceptional safari experiences in line with the standards of a luxury five-star lodge environment. The role involves leading and managing the team of Field Guides, coordinating safari activities, ensuring guest safety, and maintaining the highest standards of wildlife interpretation and conservation ethics.

The Head Guide acts as a senior ambassador for the reserve and lodge, ensuring that guests receive an informative, engaging, and safe safari experience while promoting conservation awareness and environmental responsibility.

This role also includes guide training, operational planning, vehicle and equipment oversight, and coordination with other departments to ensure seamless guest experiences.

Minimum Requirements

• DEAT / Nature Conservation Registration
• Valid South African Driver’s Licence
• Valid Professional Driving Permit (PDP)
• Valid First Aid Certificate (Level 2 preferred)
• FGASA Level 2 or higher qualification
• Advanced Rifle Competency (SAPS)
• SASSETA Certification (where applicable)
• Valid International Driver’s Permit (if applicable)
• Minimum 5 years guiding experience in a game reserve environment
• Previous supervisory or leadership experience in a guiding department preferred

Key Responsibilities

Safari Operations Management

• Oversee the daily operation of all safari activities including game drives and guided bush walks.
• Coordinate safari schedules and guide allocations to ensure efficient operations.
• Ensure safari activities operate in accordance with reserve policies and Standard Operating Procedures.
• Ensure that all guiding activities maintain the highest standards of safety and professionalism.
• Monitor guest feedback relating to safari experiences and implement improvements where necessary.

Guest Experience and Hosting

• Lead and conduct game drives and bush walks when required.
• Ensure all guides deliver engaging, informative and memorable safari experiences.
• Provide guests with accurate and insightful interpretation of wildlife, ecosystems and conservation practices.
• Host VIP guests and conduct specialized safaris where required.
• Conduct site inspections and educational experiences for travel partners and media guests.
• Ensure safari experiences meet the standards expected of a luxury five-star lodge.

Guide Leadership and Staff Management

• Lead, mentor, and supervise the team of Field Guides and Trainee Guides.
• Provide training and development to guides to improve guiding knowledge, presentation skills, and guest interaction.
• Conduct regular guide assessments and performance evaluations.
• Ensure all guides maintain valid certifications including FGASA, DEAT, First Aid, and rifle competency.
• Assist in the recruitment and onboarding of new guides.
• Ensure guiding staff adhere to lodge standards, professional conduct, and guiding ethics.

Training and Development

• Develop and implement a structured training program for trainee guides.
• Conduct regular field training sessions covering:
  • Wildlife identification
  • Tracking
  • Ecology and conservation
  • Guest interpretation
  • Guiding ethics and safety
• Conduct regular guide briefings and debriefings.
• Encourage continuous professional development within the guiding team.
• Drive with junior guides at least once a month to ensure high stds are kept and conduct on drive is of 5 star std.

Wildlife Monitoring and Conservation

• Monitor wildlife sightings and animal movements within the reserve.
• Maintain accurate records of wildlife sightings and conservation observations.
• Assist with wildlife management initiatives when required.
• Promote responsible guiding practices that protect wildlife and the natural environment.
• Ensure compliance with conservation regulations and reserve policies.

Vehicle and Equipment Management

• Oversee the management and maintenance of all safari vehicles.
• Ensure daily vehicle checks are conducted before safari activities.
• Ensure vehicles remain clean, well maintained, and operational.
• Liaise with the maintenance department regarding vehicle servicing and repairs.
• Ensure all guiding equipment is properly maintained including:
  • Radios
  • Binoculars
  • First aid kits
  • Rifles and ammunition
  • All other OE
• Monthly stock take with all guides OE

Safety and Risk Management

• Ensure the safety of guests and guides during all safari activities.
• Implement and monitor safety procedures for all guiding activities.
• Conduct safety briefings for guides and guests where necessary.
• Ensure all guides carry appropriate safety equipment.
• Manage emergency situations in the field.
• Participate in emergency response planning and evacuation procedures.

Operational Coordination

• Coordinate safari operations with other lodge departments including:
  • Front Office
  • Housekeeping
  • Food & Beverage
  • Maintenance
• Ensure safari schedules align with guest itineraries and lodge operations.
• Draw up a roster, monitor and assist with tyre dragging of roads on SP
• Monthly OE stock take
• Draw up and monitor and assist with cleaning roster
• Weekly Accommodation
• Assist in planning special guest experiences such as:
  • Bush breakfasts
  • Sundowner safaris
  • Bush braais
  • Private safaris
  • Bush picnics

Activity Oversight

Ensure all guides are trained in and adhere to SOPs for activities including:

• Game Drives
• Guided Bush Walks
• Dam Safaris
• Bush Picnics and Bush Braais

Additional reserve activities including:

• Horse Trails
• Quad Bike Adventure Trails
• Ground Hornbill Project
• Picnics

Reporting and Administration

• Maintain records of safari operations and guide activities.
• Compile guiding department reports where required.
• Monitor guide schedules and duty rosters.
• Report vehicle usage, maintenance issues, and operational concerns.
• Assist in compiling wildlife reports and photographic records.

Photography and Marketing Support

• Encourage guides to contribute wildlife photography for lodge marketing.
• Ensure guides submit weekly photographs to the Wildlife Services Coordinator.