Lead Guide & Reservations Manager — Live-In

Wild Dreams Hospitality; Noord-Kaap; On-site; Full time

Job description

This dual-role position suits a couple who bring complementary strengths: one partner leading guiding operations in the field, the other running the reservations desk that keeps the camps full and guests looked after from first enquiry to arrival.

Role 1 - Assistant Head Guide

Core Criteria

• Relevant guiding qualification (FGASA or equivalent), valid PrDP and driver's license
• Previous experience as a Senior Field Guide or in a similar leadership role
• First Aid certification and rifle competency where required
• Strong leadership, communication, and mentoring skills
• Excellent knowledge of wildlife, ecology, and reserve operations
• Professional, guest-focused, and safety-conscious
• Willing to work flexible hours, including weekends and public holidays

Candidate Responsibilities

• Lead and conduct game drives, bush walks, and other guided experiences
• Support the Head Guide in supervising field guides, trackers, and guiding schedules
• Ensure all guiding activities meet safety protocols, reserve policy, and conservation regulations
• Assist with training, mentoring, and assessing guides and trainee guides
• Monitor vehicles, equipment, and radios, keeping them maintained and ready for use
• Deliver high-quality guest engagement and interpretation at all timesAssist with incident reporting, risk management, and emergency response
• Support conservation initiatives, data collection, and environmental education
• Stand in for the Head Guide when needed and assist with admin duties

Role 2 - Reservations Manager

Core Criteria

• 3-5 years experience in reservations or front office within luxury hospitality or the safari industry
• Solid understanding of Southern African travel, safari logistics, and luxury guest expectations
• Proficient in reservations systems (e.g. ResRequest, Panstrat, NightsBridge, or similar)
• Strong leadership, team management, and mentoring ability
• Fluent in English, with strong written and verbal communication; additional languages an advantage
• Excellent organisational skills, attention to detail, and ability to work under pressure
• Passion for luxury travel, wildlife, and conservation

Candidate Responsibilities

• Manage and oversee daily reservations across all camps on the reserve
• Handle bookings accurately and personally, from first enquiry through to pre-arrival prep
• Build strong relationships with travel trade partners, agents, and DMCs
• Keep trade partners informed on availability, promotions, and offerings
• Monitor occupancy, booking pace, and yield to support revenue goals
• Compile reports for forecasting, budgeting, and performance review
• Maintain accurate data entry, payment tracking, and booking integrity in the reservations system
• Ensure SOPs are followed and refined to uphold the reserve's standards
• Coordinate with finance and hospitality teams for smooth pre-arrival handovers
• Lead, train, and support the reservations team

Package Offer

• Live-in position
• Staff flights between Johannesburg and Cape Town