Safari Manager

JVR Software; Limpopo; On-site; ZAR 240,000 - 420,000; Full time

Job summary

Vaalwater Safari Lodge is seeking an experienced Field Guide with FGASA Level 2 or higher, ARH/Lead Trails qualifications, and DEAT registration. You will lead guided bush walks, manage vehicle fleets, and ensure safety and exceptional guest experiences in a luxury setting.

Strong leadership, extensive wildlife knowledge, and the ability to work weekends and on-site living arrangements are required. Proficiency in Microsoft Office and safari reporting systems is preferred.

Qualifications

• FGASA Level 2 or higher required with ARH/lead trails qualifications.
• DEAT/NDT registration and firearm competencies are essential.
• Valid PrDP driver’s licence and First Aid Level 1 at minimum.

Responsibilities

• Lead guiding activities including bush walks and wildlife interpretation.
• Manage safari vehicle fleet, maintenance scheduling and readiness.
• Ensure guest safety and high-standard service in a 5-star lodge.
• Mentor junior guides and oversee operations and planning.

Skills

Leadership

People management

Guest relations

Planning & organisational

Decision making

Calm under pressure

Wildlife interpretation

Education

FGASA Level 2

FGASA Lead Trails Guide (ARH)

ARH certification

DEAT/NDT Registered Guide

First Aid Level 1

PrDP with Driver’s Licence

Firearm Competency Certificate

Tools

Microsoft Office

Safari reporting systems

Job description

• FGASA Level 2 (Level 3 or Professional Field Guide preferred).
• FGASA Lead Trails Guide (ARH – Advanced Rifle Handling) qualification.
• ARH (Advanced Rifle Handling) certification is essential.
• DEAT/NDT Registered Guide.
• Valid First Aid Level 1 Certificate (Level 2 advantageous).
• Valid Driver’s Licence with PrDP.
• Valid Firearm Competency Certificate.

Experience

• Minimum of 5 years’ experience as a Field Guide in a luxury safari lodge or private game reserve.
• Minimum of 2–3 years’ experience in a supervisory or Safari Manager/Head Ranger role.
• Proven experience managing a safari vehicle fleet, including maintenance scheduling and operational readiness.
• Demonstrated experience conducting guided bush walks.
• Knowledge of anti-poaching awareness, reserve security procedures, and conservation operations.
• Experience working within a 5-star luxury lodge environment is highly advantageous.

Minimum Qualifications

• FGASA Level 2 (Level 3 or Professional Field Guide preferred).
• FGASA Lead Trails Guide (ARH – Advanced Rifle Handling) qualification.
• ARH (Advanced Rifle Handling) certification is essential.
• DEAT/NDT Registered Guide.
• Valid First Aid Level 1 Certificate (Level 2 advantageous).
• Valid Driver’s Licence with PrDP.
• Valid Firearm Competency Certificate.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong leadership and people management skills.
• Excellent guiding, tracking, and wildlife interpretation abilities.
• Comprehensive knowledge of bush walking procedures and rifle safety.
• Strong understanding of safari fleet management and preventative maintenance.
• Excellent guest relations and communication skills.
• Strong organisational and planning abilities.
• Sound decision-making and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to remain calm and make effective decisions in emergency situations.
• High level of professionalism and attention to detail.
• Computer literacy (Microsoft Office and safari reporting systems).

Knowledge Requirements

• African wildlife behaviour, ecology, and conservation.
• Bird identification and interpretation.
• Bush walking safety protocols.
• Advanced Rifle Handling (ARH) procedures.
• Anti-poaching awareness and reserve security protocols.
• Safari vehicle maintenance and fleet management.
• Health and safety legislation.
• Emergency response and first aid.
• Luxury hospitality standards and guest service excellence.

Other Requirements

• Valid driver’s licence with PrDP.
• Valid firearm competency.
• Physically fit and capable of conducting extended bush walks.
• Willingness to work weekends, public holidays, and flexible hours.
• Ability to live on-site if staff accommodation is provided.
• Professional appearance and excellent interpersonal skills.
• Clear criminal record.

Preferred Attributes

• Passion for conservation and sustainable tourism.
• Strong mentoring and coaching abilities.
• Calm, confident, and decisive leadership style.
• Excellent attention to safety and operational detail.
• Ability to build and lead a high-performing safari team.
• Commitment to delivering exceptional guest experiences while supporting wildlife conservation objectives.

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