Trails Guide

SUMMARY:
The Trails Guide is responsible for conducting safe, educational, and memorable walking safaris and trails in a Big 5 environment. The role requires expert knowledge of wildlife, ecology, tracking, and safety procedures, ensuring guests experience the bush intimately while upholding the highest standards of conservation and ethical guiding.
 
Walking Safari & Trail Guiding

• Lead walking safaris, bush walks, and trails safely in an unfenced Big 5 environment.
• Ensure guest safety at all times, maintaining vigilance for wildlife, terrain hazards, and environmental risks.
• Provide engaging and educational interpretation of wildlife behaviour, tracking techniques, ecology, and conservation principles.
• Adapt the pace and content of walks according to guest preferences, fitness levels, and experience.

• Uphold and model conservation ethics and responsible bush conduct.
• Ensure strict adherence to reserve rules, wildlife protocols, and bush ethics.
• Promote environmental awareness and respect for wildlife and natural habitats.
• Support conservation programmes and data collection initiatives as required.

• Conduct risk assessments before every walk and maintain constant situational awareness.
• Carry and maintain emergency equipment, first aid kits, and communication devices.
• Ensure walks are conducted in accordance with lodge SOPs and safety protocols.
• Respond promptly and calmly to emergencies, wildlife encounters, or medical incidents.

• Provide warm, professional, and memorable guest interactions during trails.
• Share stories, tracking knowledge, and educational content to enhance the guest experience.
• Ensure guests feel safe, informed, and connected to the environment.

• Maintain personal and lodge-provided bushcraft equipment, GPS devices, and radios.
• Conduct pre-walk checks on gear and safety equipment.
• Report any operational, safety, or wildlife concerns to the Safari Manager or Senior Guide.

• Assist in the training and mentorship of junior guides and trainee trails guides.
• Support the Safari Manager and guiding team in daily operations and briefings.
• Foster teamwork and maintain high professional standards within the guiding team.

POSITION INFO:
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE

• FGASA Trails Guide qualification (minimum Level 1; Level 2 or higher preferred).
• FGASA Field Guide qualification advantageous.
• Valid driver’s licence and PDP (where applicable).
• Minimum First Aid Level 2 (mandatory).
• Proven experience leading walking safaris in a Big 5 or unfenced reserve environment.
• Strong wildlife tracking and identification skills.
• Clear criminal record and child-safety clearance if involved with family guests.