Trails Guide

Bushwise; KwaZulu-Natal; On-site; ZAR 50 000 - 200 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading safari lodge in KwaZulu-Natal is seeking a passionate Trails Guide to join its team. Candidates must have a recognised guiding qualification and advanced trails certification, with at least 2 years of experience guiding in a Big 5 environment. Responsibilities include leading bush walks and game drives, ensuring guest safety, and engaging guests with wildlife knowledge. The successful candidate will embody a strong conservation ethos, excellent interpersonal skills, and a commitment to memorable safari experiences.

Qualifications

• Minimum 2 years' experience guiding in a Big 5 environment.
• Valid driver's licence and PDP required.
• Professional appearance and mature attitude essential.

Responsibilities

• Lead guided bush walks and game drives, ensuring guest safety.
• Share knowledge of flora, fauna, and animal behaviour.
• Collaborate with lodge staff on guest activities.

Skills

Guiding expertise

Strong communication skills

Bush knowledge

Guest engagement

Education

Recognised guiding qualification

Rifle handling and Advanced Trails certification

Tools

4x4 vehicles

Field gear and rifles

Job description

Highway R34, South Africa | Posted on 11/13/2025

A prestigious safari lodge in KwaZulu-Natal is seeking a passionate and professional Trails Guide to join its guiding team. The role requires a highly responsible and safety-conscious individual who thrives in the bush, has a deep respect for wildlife, and enjoys creating meaningful and educational experiences for guests.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead guided bush walks and game drives, ensuring guest safety and exceptional interpretive experiences.
• Share expert knowledge of flora, fauna, animal behaviour, and the broader ecosystem.
• Deliver engaging, informative, and conservation-focused guest interactions.
• Conduct daily vehicle and equipment checks to ensure readiness and safety standards.
• Assist with the care and maintenance of lodge vehicles, rifles, and field gear.
• Support the broader guest experience by collaborating with lodge staff on activities, schedules, and special requests.
• Contribute to the lodge’s conservation ethos through responsible guiding and respect for wildlife.
• Participate in ongoing professional development and internal training initiatives.

Requirements

• Recognised guiding qualification and valid guiding permit.
• Rifle handling and Advanced Trails certification (or equivalent recognised qualification).
• Valid driver’s licence and PDP.
• Minimum 2 years’ experience guiding in a Big 5 environment.
• Strong interpretive and communication skills, with a focus on guest engagement.
• Sound bush knowledge and a demonstrated passion for nature and conservation.
• Professional appearance, mature attitude, and team-oriented approach.

Personal Attributes

• Calm, confident, and safety-focused.
• Excellent interpersonal and storytelling abilities.
• Physically fit and capable of walking long distances in varied terrain.
• Empathetic and respectful towards guests, colleagues, and wildlife.
• Committed to delivering memorable, ethical, and educational safari experiences.