Head Guide

Minimum Requirements

• DEAT / Nature Conservation Registration
• Valid South African Driver’s Licence
• Valid Professional Driving Permit (PDP)
• Valid First Aid Certificate (Level 2 preferred)
• FGASA Level 2 or higher qualification
• Advanced Rifle Competency (SAPS)
• SASSETA Certification (where applicable)
• Valid International Driver’s Permit (if applicable)
• Minimum 5 years guiding experience in a game reserve environment
• Previous supervisory or leadership experience in a guiding department preferred

Key Responsibilities
Safari Operations Management

• Oversee the daily operation of all safari activities including game drives and guided bush walks.
• Coordinate safari schedules and guide allocations to ensure efficient operations.
• Ensure safari activities operate in accordance with reserve policies and Standard Operating Procedures.
• Ensure that all guiding activities maintain the highest standards of safety and professionalism.
• Monitor guest feedback relating to safari experiences and implement improvements where necessary.

Guest Experience and Hosting

• Lead and conduct game drives and bush walks when required.
• Ensure all guides deliver engaging, informative and memorable safari experiences.
• Provide guests with accurate and insightful interpretation of wildlife, ecosystems and conservation practices.
• Host VIP guests and conduct specialized safaris where required.
• Conduct site inspections and educational experiences for travel partners and media guests.
• Ensure safari experiences meet the standards expected of a luxury five-star lodge.

Guide Leadership and Staff Management

• Lead, mentor, and supervise the team of Field Guides and Trainee Guides.
• Provide training and development to guides to improve guiding knowledge, presentation skills, and guest interaction.
• Conduct regular guide assessments and performance evaluations.
• Ensure all guides maintain valid certifications including FGASA, DEAT, First Aid, and rifle competency.
• Assist in the recruitment and onboarding of new guides.
• Ensure guiding staff adhere to lodge standards, professional conduct, and guiding ethics.

 
Training and Development

• Develop and implement a structured training program for trainee guides.
• Conduct regular field training sessions covering:
  • Wildlife identification
  • Tracking
  • Ecology and conservation
  • Guest interpretation
  • Guiding ethics and safety
• Conduct regular guide briefings and debriefings.
• Encourage continuous professional development within the guiding team.
• Drive with junior guides at least once a month to ensure high stds are kept and conduct on drive is of 5 star std.

Wildlife Monitoring and Conservation

• Monitor wildlife sightings and animal movements within the reserve.
• Maintain accurate records of wildlife sightings and conservation observations.
• Assist with wildlife management initiatives when required.
• Promote responsible guiding practices that protect wildlife and the natural environment.
• Ensure compliance with conservation regulations and reserve policies.

 
Vehicle and Equipment Management

• Oversee the management and maintenance of all safari vehicles.
• Ensure daily vehicle checks are conducted before safari activities.
• Ensure vehicles remain clean, well maintained, and operational.
• Liaise with the maintenance department regarding vehicle servicing and repairs.
• Ensure all guiding equipment is properly maintained including:
  • Radios
  • Binoculars
  • First aid kits
  • Rifles and ammunition
  • All other OE
  • Monthly stock take with all guides OE

 
Safety and Risk Management

• Ensure the safety of guests and guides during all safari activities.
• Implement and monitor safety procedures for all guiding activities.
• Conduct safety briefings for guides and guests where necessary.
• Ensure all guides carry appropriate safety equipment.
• Manage emergency situations in the field.
• Participate in emergency response planning and evacuation procedures.

Operational Coordination

• Coordinate safari operations with other lodge departments including:
  • Front Office
  • Housekeeping
  • Food & Beverage
  • Maintenance
• Ensure safari schedules align with guest itineraries and lodge operations.
• Draw up a roster, monitor and assist with tyre dragging of roads on SP
• Monthly OE stock take
• Draw up and monitor and assist with cleaning roster
• Weekly Accommodation
• Assist in planning special guest experiences such as:
  • Bush breakfasts
  • Sundowner safaris
  • Bush braais
  • Private safaris
  • Bush picnics

Activity Oversight
Ensure all guides are trained in and adhere to SOPs for activities including:

• Game Drives
• Guided Bush Walks
• Dam Safaris
• Bush Picnics and Bush Braais
• Additional reserve activities including:
  • Horse Trails
  • Quad Bike Adventure Trails
  • Ground Hornbill Project
  • Picnics

Reporting and Administration

• Maintain records of safari operations and guide activities.
• Compile guiding department reports where required.
• Monitor guide schedules and duty rosters.
• Report vehicle usage, maintenance issues, and operational concerns.
• Assist in compiling wildlife reports and photographic records.

Photography and Marketing Support

• Encourage guides to contribute wildlife photography for lodge marketing.

Ensure guides submit weekly photographs to the Wildlife Services Coordinator.