Senior Guide

SUMMARY:
A prestigious Big 5 lodge is seeking an experienced and professional SENIOR GUIDE to deliver exceptional safari experiences.

POSITION INFO:
The property is situated on the North Coast in KwaZulu Natal is seeking a Senior Guide to deliver safe, educational, and memorable safari experiences in a Big 5 environment. The role supports the mentoring and development of junior guides, upholds conservation principles, and ensures compliance with reserve protocols while maintaining a consistently high standard of guiding.

Candidate Responsibilities:

• Conduct professional, engaging game drives and bush walks (where permitted).
• Ensure guest safety in an unfenced Big 5 environment.
• Deliver ethical and memorable wildlife encounters.
• Interpret wildlife behavior, ecology, and conservation principles accurately.
• Adapt guiding style to guest needs and respond professionally to feedback.
• Uphold and promote responsible tourism and conservation values.
• Adhere to reserve rules, wildlife protocols, and carrying capacities.
• Act as a role model for ethical guiding and environmental stewardship.
• Support conservation initiatives, data collection, and reporting.
• Follow lodge SOPs, reserve rules, and legal requirements.
• Maintain situational awareness and clear radio communication.
• Respond effectively to emergencies or wildlife-related incidents.
• Ensure vehicles and equipment are maintained and fit for use.
• Mentor and coach junior and trainee guides.
• Assist with assessments, training, and on-the-job development.
• Lead by example in professionalism, guest interaction, safety, and conservation ethics.
• Support the Safari Manager with team coordination when required.
• Assist with vehicle, equipment, and resource maintenance.
• Participate in briefings, debriefings, and operational planning.
• Support special activities, photographic safaris, walking safaris, and private drives where qualified.

• FGASA Professional Field Guide qualification (Level 2 minimum recommended)
• Trails Guide qualification advantageous
• Valid PDP and driver’s license (Code B / C1)
• First Aid Level 2 (minimum)
• Minimum 3–5 years’ guiding experience in a Big 5 reserve
• Clear criminal record
• Own vehicle

• This is a live-in position.
• 3/1 work cycle
• Meals provided as well as medical aid and provident fund.
• Single room with ensuite bathroom
• No pets or kids