Senior Field Guide

Luxury Big 5 Game Lodge – Eastern Cape, South Africa

Role Overview

The lodge is seeking an experienced, guest‑centric Senior Field Guide to join its guiding team. The ideal candidate will deliver exceptional safari experiences, uphold strict safety standards, and contribute positively to the lodge’s conservation ethos. A Full Trails Guide qualification or Back‑Up Trails is required.

This role suits a mature, confident guide with strong bush knowledge, excellent hosting skills, and the ability to mentor junior guides when needed.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct high‑quality morning and afternoon game drives in a Big 5 environment
• Lead walking safaris in accordance with FGASA Trails standards (Full Trails or Back‑Up)
• Host guests professionally, ensuring warm, engaging, and personalised experiences
• Provide accurate, insightful interpretation of wildlife, ecology, and conservation topics
• Maintain guiding equipment, vehicles, rifles, and walk gear to lodge standards
• Ensure guest safety at all times, including during dangerous‑game encounters
• Assist with lodge hosting, guest arrivals, and general guest relations
• Support conservation initiatives and uphold reserve rules and ethical guiding practices
• Mentor junior guides and contribute to ongoing training and development
• Maintain sightings logs, vehicle checklists, and other departmental admin

Minimum Requirements

• FGASA Field Guide (NQF2 / Level 1) or higher
• Full Trails Guide or Back‑Up Trails qualification (essential)
• VPDA (Viewing Potentially Dangerous Animals)
• SAPS Rifle Competency + Advanced Rifle Handling
• Valid First Aid Level 1
• Valid Driver’s License + PrDP
• DEAT/LEDET Registration or ability to register immediately
• Minimum 3–5 years guiding experience in a Big 5 reserve
• Strong communication skills and excellent command of English
• Professional, well‑presented, guest‑focused approach
• Physically fit and capable of conducting walks in varied terrain

Personal Attributes

• Confident, calm, and safety‑driven
• Warm, engaging personality with strong hosting ability
• High levels of professionalism and integrity
• Strong situational awareness and decision‑making skills
• Team player with a positive, proactive attitude
• Passionate about conservation, wildlife, and guest education

Package

• Competitive salary (experience‑dependent)
• Excellent tips from international clientele
• Live‑in accommodation
• Meals on duty
• Uniform
• Training and development opportunities

If you want, I can also prepare a short social‑media advert, a formatted client‑ready version, or a screening checklist for this role.