Head Guide

Craven Cottage CC; Pongola; On-site; ZAR 300,000 - 420,000; Full time

Job summary

Craven Cottage CC is seeking an experienced Head Guide to lead daily safari activities at a luxury lodge. You will direct game drives, host international guests, maintain safety protocols, and mentor a team of guides across all duties.

Strong FGASA qualifications, First Aid, and a valid SA Driver's Licence are essential. The role focuses on premium guest experiences, wildlife interpretation, and strict adherence to park rules while supporting conservation initiatives and standard operational

Qualifications

• Matric
• FGASA Level 2 + Full Trails or equivalent certification required
• First Aid certification is mandatory
• SA Driver's Licence and PrDP required
• Rifle Competency where applicable
• DEAT/NDT registration where applicable
• FGASA qualification held

Responsibilities

• Lead and conduct daily game drives, bush walks, and safari activities.
• Ensure activities are safe, professional, and aligned with guest expectations.
• Deliver informative wildlife interpretation to guests during experiences.
• Plan daily game drive routes based on wildlife movements and guest preferences.
• Monitor weather conditions and operational risks.
• Ensure adherence to reserve rules and environmental regulations.
• Lead, mentor, coach, and develop the guiding team.
• Coordinate guide rosters and daily allocations; maintain professional standards.
• Record wildlife sightings and monitor animal behaviour and movements.
• Assist with conservation initiatives and reserve management programmes.
• Maintain and inspect safari vehicles and equipment; ensure safety systems are operational.
• Complete daily safari reports and maintain vehicle logbooks.
• Conduct regular guide training sessions and staff development.
• Promote teamwork and collaboration across departments.

Skills

Leadership

Guest service

Team management

Safety awareness

Guest relations

Education

Grade 12 (Matric)

FGASA Level 2 + Full Trails

First Aid Certificate

Driver's Licence (SA)

PrDP

Rifle Competency

DEAT/NDT registration

FGASA qualification

Tools

Radios

Binoculars

Spotlights

First Aid Kit

Recovery equipment

Job description

Duties:

Safari Operations:

• Lead and conduct daily game drives, bush walks, and other safari activities.
• Ensure all safari activities are conducted safely and professionally.
• Deliver informative and engaging wildlife interpretation.
• Plan daily game drive routes based on wildlife movements and guest preferences.
• Monitor weather conditions and operational risks.
• Ensure strict adherence to reserve rules and environmental regulations.

Guest Experience:

• Deliver exceptional guest service throughout every safari experience.
• Personally welcome guests and introduce safari programmes.
• Build meaningful relationships with guests through professional engagement.
• Cater safari experiences to guest interests, photographic opportunities, families, and special occasions.
• Handle guest concerns professionally and efficiently.
• Maintain 5* hospitality standards at all times.

Leadership & Team Management:

• Lead, mentor, coach, and develop the guiding team.
• Conduct regular performance reviews and coaching sessions.
• Coordinate guide rosters and daily allocations.
• Ensure guides maintain professional standards and appearance.
• Assist with recruitment and onboarding of new guides.
• Promote teamwork and collaboration across departments.

Wildlife Monitoring & Conservation:

• Record wildlife sightings accurately.
• Monitor animal behaviour and movements.
• Assist with conservation initiatives and reserve management programmes.
• Report injured animals, poaching activity, fence damage, and environmental concerns.
• Promote responsible tourism and environmental awareness.

Vehicle & Equipment Management:

• Ensure safari vehicles are maintained in excellent condition.
• Conduct daily vehicle inspections.
• Report maintenance requirements immediately.
• Monitor fuel usage.
• Maintain guiding equipment including:
• Radios
• Binoculars
• Spotlights
• First Aid Kits
• Recovery equipment
• Ensure all safety equipment is operational.

Safety & Compliance:

• Ensure compliance with all health and safety procedures.
• Conduct safety briefings before each activity.
• Maintain valid first aid certification.
• Ensure emergency equipment is available during all activities.
• Participate in emergency response training.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable legislation and reserve operating procedures.

Administration:

• Complete daily safari reports.
• Record wildlife sightings.
• Maintain vehicle logbooks.
• Complete maintenance reports.
• Submit incident reports where required.
• Maintain guide training records.

Training & Development:

• Conduct regular guide training sessions.
• Mentor junior guides and guide trainees.
• Keep the guiding team updated on wildlife knowledge, hospitality standards, and safety procedures.
• Coordinate ongoing skills development.

Requirements:

• Grade 12 (Matric).
• Relevant FGASA qualifications of Level 2 plus Full Trails
• Minimum 5 years' guiding experience within a luxury safari lodge.
• Valid First Aid Certificate.
• Previous supervisory or Head Guide experience preferred.
• Experience hosting international luxury guests.
• Valid South African Driver's Licence.
• Valid Professional Driving Permit (PrDP).
• Valid FGASA qualification.
• Valid Rifle Competency (where required).
• DEAT/NDT registration (where applicable).