Trails Guide

Bushwise; Matjhabeng Local Municipality; On-site; ZAR 201,000 - 268,000; Full time

Job summary

Bushwise invites a passionate Trails Guide to join our renowned KwaZulu-Natal safari lodge team. You will lead guided bush walks and game drives, delivering engaging, conservation-focused guest experiences while upholding safety and professionalism.

A recognised guiding qualification with permits is required together with rifle handling and Advanced Trails certification, a valid driver’s licence and PDP. You’ll work closely with lodge staff to create memorable wildlife adventures and support our

Qualifications

• Recognised guiding qualification and valid guiding permit.
• Rifle handling and Advanced Trails certification.
• Valid driver’s licence and PDP.
• Minimum 2 years guiding in a Big 5 environment.
• Excellent interpretive and communication skills.
• Sound bush knowledge and conservation passion.

Responsibilities

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

Skills

Guiding experience

Interpretive communication

Storytelling

Safety-conscious

Team-oriented

Education

Guiding qualification and permit

Rifle handling & Advanced Trails cert

Driver’s licence and PDP

Job description

Highway R34, South Africa | Posted on 10/13/2026

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

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.