Job Description

A luxury safari lodge is seeking a qualified and experienced TRAILS GUIDE to deliver exceptional walking safaris and game drive experiences in a Big 5 environment.
The lodge is situated within the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve and the role requires a strong focus on guest safety, conservation ethics, and immersive interpretive guiding, while upholding the highest standards of professionalism and hospitality.
Candidate Responsibilities:

• Lead guided bush walks and game drives in a Big 5, unfenced wilderness environment.
• Ensure guest safety at all times, particularly during walking safaris.
• Deliver engaging, informative interpretations of wildlife behaviour, tracking, ecology, and conservation.
• Adapt guiding style to suit guest interests, experience levels, and expectations.
• Create memorable, personalised safari experiences with a strong focus on guest satisfaction.
• Conduct walking safaris confidently and professionally, demonstrating strong situational awareness.
• Apply advanced tracking skills and bush knowledge during trails.
• Maintain calm, decisive leadership in close-proximity wildlife encounters.
• Act as a role model for ethical wilderness conduct and low-impact tourism.
• Uphold and promote conservation values and responsible tourism principles.
• Adhere strictly to reserve rules, safety protocols, and wildlife viewing ethics.
• Support conservation initiatives, data collection, and environmental awareness where required.
• Ensure all activities comply with lodge SOPs, reserve regulations, and legal requirements.
• Maintain clear and professional radio communication at all times.
• Conduct pre-activity safety briefings and equipment checks.
• Respond effectively to emergencies or wildlife-related incidents.
• Care for guiding equipment, firearms (where applicable), radios, and vehicles.
• Participate in daily briefings, sightings updates, and debriefings.
• Work collaboratively with fellow guides, trackers, and lodge departments.
• Maintain professional appearance and conduct in line with lodge standards.

Core Criteria:

• FGASA Professional Field Guide qualification (minimum Level 2).
• Valid Trails Guide qualification.
• Valid PDP and driver's licence.
• First Aid Level 2 (minimum).
• Proven experience guiding in a Big 5 reserve.
• Clear criminal record.
• Strong Big 5 and trails guiding skills
• Advanced tracking and bush awareness
• Calm, confident decision-making under pressure
• Excellent communication and storytelling ability
• High ethical and conservation-driven mindset
• Professional, guest-focused approach

This is a live-in position.
For more information please contact:
Travis Holt

Skills Required