Job Description

Job Summary ? Lodge-Based Role: Head Guide - Ultra-Luxury Big 5 Game Reserve (Western Cape) ? Location: Private Big 5 Game Reserve, Ceres / Karoo region, Western Cape ? Salary: Highly negotiable (based on experience; potential for bonus buy-out for starts before end of 2025) ? Accommodation / Meals: Live-in (accommodation and meals provided) ? Work Cycle: 3 weeks on / 1 week off Role Overview A newly opening, exclusive ultra-luxury 5? (Big 5) tented lodge in the Western Cape is seeking a Head Guide to join its leadership team. This is a flagship position for a seasoned luxury safari professional who combines technical guiding expertise with flawless guest hosting and refined presentation. The ideal candidate will have a track record of delivering world-class guest experiences within a five-star+ environment and the discipline to thrive in a remote, high-performance setting. This position requires a candidate with proven loyalty and consistency in their career journey. Preference will be given to guides who have demonstrated long-term commitment and progression within luxury safari environments. Key Requirements o FGASA NQF4 (Trails qualification advantageous but not mandatory). o Minimum 3 years' Head or Senior Guide experience within a luxury lodge (5? or higher). o Strong guest-hosting skills - confident, professional, warm and personable. o Excellent communication and team-leadership skills with discipline and integrity. o Good knowledge of vehicle and equipment maintenance, radio protocols and bush safety. o Immaculate presentation and a genuine passion for sharing knowledge of wildlife, ecology and conservation. Responsibilities o Lead game drives, bush walks and custom safari experiences in a Big 5 reserve. o Share in-depth knowledge of the ecosystem in an engaging, refined manner. o Host guests throughout their stay - including meals and special functions - to the highest standards of service. o Oversee vehicle and equipment maintenance, ensuring safety and professional presentation. o Manage the safari department and guiding team, providing leadership, training and mentorship. o Collaborate closely with lodge management to deliver a seamless, world-class guest journey. What's on Offer o Live-in luxury lodge environment with meals and accommodation provided. o 3 weeks on / 1 week off rotation for a balanced bush lifestyle. o Highly negotiable salary reflecting your experience and five-star background. o Optional bonus buy-out for candidates able to start before December 2025 (with proof of existing bonus agreement). o Opportunity to help shape an exceptional new luxury safari operation in the Western Cape. ? TO APPLY: Submit your updated CV with contactable references and a recent head & shoulders photograph ASAP. ? Please Note: If you do not receive feedback within 7 working days, kindly consider your application unsuccessful.
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