Head Guide

SUMMARY:
Position Overview
We are seeking an experienced, confident, and highly professional Head Guide to join a luxury lodge situated on Nambiti Private Game Reserve. The successful candidate will be responsible for leading the guiding team, delivering exceptional Big Five safari experiences, maintaining high guiding and safety standards, and ensuring that guests receive an unforgettable and personalised bush experience.
The ideal candidate will be a mature and analytical individual with strong technical guiding knowledge, excellent guest relations, and the ability to lead, mentor, and develop a team of guides while upholding the standards expected of a luxury safari lodge.
Key Responsibilities

• Lead, manage, and mentor the guiding team, ensuring consistently high standards of professionalism and performance.
• Conduct exceptional Big Five game drives and provide engaging, accurate, and informative interpretations of wildlife, ecology, and the surrounding environment.
• Host guests confidently and professionally, ensuring personalised service and memorable safari experiences.
• Plan and coordinate daily game drives, guiding schedules, and operational activities.
• Maintain high standards of guest safety, vehicle safety, rifle handling, and general field operations.
• Ensure all guiding activities comply with applicable legislation, reserve regulations, and industry standards.
• Maintain and oversee the condition, cleanliness, and readiness of safari vehicles, equipment, and guiding resources.
• Conduct regular checks on vehicles, equipment, firearms, and safety procedures.
• Provide ongoing coaching, training, and mentorship to guides, assisting with skills development and professional growth.
• Monitor wildlife movements, animal behaviour, and environmental conditions to enhance the quality of guest experiences.
• Communicate effectively with lodge management and other departments to ensure smooth daily operations.
• Handle guest queries, requests, and concerns professionally, maintaining excellent guest satisfaction.
• Complete guiding reports, operational records, and relevant administrative duties accurately.
• Promote responsible wildlife viewing, conservation awareness, and ethical guiding practices.
• Maintain a high standard of personal presentation, professionalism, and conduct at all times.

POSITION INFO:
Qualifications and Requirements FGASA Level 2 qualification (NQF Level 4). Valid First Aid qualification. Valid Professional Driving Permit (PDP) and driver's licence. Valid DEAT registration. Valid NDT registration. Advanced Rifle Handling (ARH) qualification. Trails qualification or experience would be an advantage. Advanced 4x4 driving course qualification would be an added advantage. Minimum of five years' guiding experience in a Big Five reserve . Strong technical guiding knowledge and a sound understanding of wildlife, ecology, and conservation. Proven experience leading, supervising, and mentoring a guiding team. Excellent guest relations, hosting, and communication skills. Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities. Mature, confident, stable, and professional demeanour. Highly presentable, well-spoken, and service-oriented. Strong organisational and administrative skills. Ability to work independently and remain calm under pressure. A strong commitment to guest safety, responsible wildlife viewing, and professional guiding standards. Sober habits and a responsible approach to work and lodge life. Key Competencies Leadership and team development. Exceptional guest service and hospitality. Strong technical and practical guiding abilities. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Sound judgement and situational awareness. Attention to detail and operational discipline. Professionalism, integrity, and accountability. Passion for wildlife, conservation, and the luxury safari experience. Employment Conditions and Benefits Location: Luxury lodge on Nambiti Private Game Reserve, KwaZulu-Natal. Position Type: Live-in. Roster: Seven days off per month. Accommodation: Single living quarters provided. Meals: Three meals per day provided. Uniform: Provided. Ideal Candidate The ideal candidate will be a passionate and experienced Big Five guide who combines outstanding bush knowledge with polished hospitality skills. They must be confident in leading a guiding team, mentoring junior guides, hosting discerning guests, and maintaining the highest standards of safety, professionalism, and service within a luxury lodge environment.