Tour Guide and Experience Curator

Placements24; Upington; On-site; ZAR 148,000 - 277,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 seeks enthusiastic Tour Guides and Experience Curators to showcase Upington's natural and cultural heritage. You will lead tours, share engaging insights, and tailor experiences for guests while prioritizing safety and sustainability.

This contract role offers flexible hours and opportunities to work in remarkable Northern Cape environments. The ideal candidate brings wildlife knowledge, strong storytelling skills, and a passion for outdoor adventures, with a valid PDP and First Aid

Qualifications

• Proven tour guiding experience in nature/wildlife contexts.
• Excellent knowledge of Upington region flora, fauna, geography, and culture.
• Strong communication and storytelling abilities for diverse guests.
• Valid PDP driving permit with clean driving record.
• First Aid certification required; wilderness first aid is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Lead guided tours and excursions for individuals and groups in desert, river, and cultural sites.
• Provide engaging commentary on local natural and cultural history.
• Ensure guest safety and well-being throughout the tour.
• Operate and maintain tour vehicles and equipment safely.
• Curate tour experiences based on guest interests and requests.
• Assist in developing new tour routes and activities.
• Manage guest interactions, address inquiries, and resolve issues promptly.
• Uphold responsible and sustainable tourism practices.
• Deliver exceptional customer service and memorable experiences.

Skills

Tour guiding

Storytelling

Safety awareness

Customer service

English fluency

Education

First Aid certification

PDP driving permit

Tools

GPS navigation

Vehicle maintenance

Safety equipment handling

Job description

About the Role

A pioneering eco-tourism operator in the unique landscape of Upington, Northern Cape , is seeking enthusiastic and knowledgeable Tour Guides and Experience Curators . This role is perfect for individuals passionate about South Africa's natural heritage, wildlife, and cultural history, with a flair for storytelling and delivering exceptional visitor experiences. You will be responsible for leading guided tours, educating guests about the local flora, fauna, and geological features, and curating personalized adventure activities that highlight the best of the Northern Cape region. The ideal candidate is charismatic, safety-conscious, and dedicated to providing guests with unforgettable journeys into the natural world. This is an exciting contract opportunity to showcase the wonders of the Kalahari and surrounding areas.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead guided tours and excursions for individuals and groups in various environments (e.g., desert, river, cultural sites).
• Provide engaging and informative commentary on the region's natural history, wildlife, geology, and cultural significance.
• Ensure the safety and well-being of all guests throughout the tour duration.
• Operate and maintain tour vehicles and equipment safely and responsibly.
• Curate and adapt tour experiences based on guest interests and specific requests.
• Assist with the development of new tour routes and activities.
• Manage guest interactions, address inquiries, and resolve any issues promptly.
• Uphold the company's commitment to responsible and sustainable tourism practices.
• Provide excellent customer service, ensuring guests have a positive and memorable experience.

Requirements

• Proven experience as a tour guide, preferably within a nature or wildlife tourism context.
• Excellent knowledge of the local flora, fauna, geography, and cultural history of the Upington area and surrounding regions.
• Strong communication, storytelling, and interpersonal skills.
• A valid professional driving permit (PDP) and an excellent driving record.
• First Aid certification is required, advanced wilderness first aid is a significant advantage.
• Demonstrated ability to manage groups and ensure safety protocols are followed.
• A passion for the outdoors, wildlife, and cultural heritage.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including early mornings, evenings, and weekends.
• Basic vehicle maintenance skills are beneficial.
• Fluency in English; knowledge of other local languages is a plus.

Benefits

• As a contractor, you will receive a competitive daily rate or per-tour fee, with the potential for performance-based bonuses and gratuities.
• This role offers incredible flexibility and the opportunity to work in some of the most spectacular natural settings in South Africa.
• You will gain invaluable experience in the growing eco-tourism sector and contribute to promoting sustainable travel in the Northern Cape .
• Enjoy an adventurous and rewarding career surrounded by nature.