Lead Trails Guide

Bushwise; East London; On-site; ZAR 300,000 - 400,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading Game Reserve in the Eastern Cape is seeking a qualified Trails Guide to provide memorable safari experiences. The role includes conducting game drives, assisting in wildlife management, and ensuring guest safety. The ideal candidate holds relevant certifications, has at least one year of hospitality experience, and possesses strong interpersonal skills. Competitive salary offered with live-in accommodations.

Benefits

Salary depending on experience

Funeral and Provident Fund Benefits

Live-in accommodation with one meal provided per shift

Qualifications

• Minimum 1 year experience in guest hosting or hospitality environment.
• Professional appearance and a mature approach.
• Strong understanding of wildlife behavior and conservation.

Responsibilities

• Conduct professional guided game drives and bush walks.
• Ensure safety and adherence to reserve regulations.
• Monitor wildlife health and assist in conservation efforts.
• Provide exceptional hospitality to guests.

Skills

Communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Guest service orientation

Interpretative guiding skills

Education

Nature Site Guide NQF 2

Valid Dangerous Game Site Guide NQF 2

Advanced Rifle Handling certificate

Valid Firearm Competency

Valid First Aid Certificate

Valid Driver's License with PDP

Job description

Overview

We are seeking a qualified Trails Guide to join a team on a Game Reserve in the beautiful Eastern Cape. The successful candidate will be responsible for providing guests with a safe, memorable, and educational safari experience through guided game drives and walking trails, while also contributing to the wellbeing and conservation of the reserve’s wildlife and environment.

Responsibilities

• Guest Experience & Hosting
  Warmly welcome and host guests throughout their stay, ensuring a high level of hospitality. See insightful and engaging commentary on the natural environment, wildlife behavior, and conservation practices. Tailor experiences to guest needs and interests to ensure exceptional service and memorable moments.
• Game Drives & Walking Trails
  Conduct professional, safe, and informative guided game drives and bush walks. Share in-depth knowledge of the reserve’s fauna, flora, birdlife, and ecosystems. Adhere strictly to safety protocols and maintain a calm, confident presence in high-pressure wildlife encounters.
• Wildlife & Reserve Management
  Assist in monitoring the health, wellbeing, and movements of wildlife on the reserve. Report unusual sightings, animal behavior, or conservation concerns to management. Participate in routine reserve duties and projects as required (e.g., bush clearing, fence checks, waterhole monitoring).
• Compliance & Safety
  Ensure full compliance with reserve regulations, guiding standards, and firearm safety requirements. Maintain all guiding equipment, firearms, and vehicles in excellent working order. Adhere to health and safety policies, including First Aid readiness.

Requirements

• Nature Site Guide NQF 2 (Cathsseta Certificate)
• Valid Dangerous Game Site Guide NQF2 (Cathsseta Certificate)
• Advanced Rifle Handling (ARH) certificate
• Valid Firearm Competency (for both business and personal use)
• Valid First Aid Certificate
• Valid Driver’s License with PDP
• Minimum 1 year experience in guest hosting or hospitality environment
• Strong communication, interpersonal, and interpretative guiding skills
• Professional appearance, mature approach, and strong guest service orientation

Benefits

• Package: Salary depending on experience + Funeral and Provident Fund Benefits
• Accommodation: Live-in (1-bedroom apartment with open-plan lounge and kitchen). One meal provided per shift