Job description
We are a premier, luxury 4-star safari lodge committed to delivering authentic, low-impact, and deeply immersive wilderness encounters in a prime Big 5 territory. We are seeking a highly professional, safety-conscious Lead Trails Guide. The successful candidate will spearhead our specialized walking safaris and interpretive game drives, seamlessly blending top-tier luxury hospitality with a deep-seated passion for conservation, environmental storytelling, and mentorship.
Field Operations & Guest Experience Lead immersive, specialized walking safaris and multi-day wilderness trails in free-roaming Big 5 environments. Conduct safe, engaging, and highly informative game drives in open 4x4 vehicles. Deliver dynamic, educational interpretive commentary covering regional fauna, flora, tracking, geology, and stellar astronomy.
Provide flawless guest hosting during traditional bush breakfasts, boma dinners, and fireside storytelling sessions. Safety & Risk Management Maintain absolute situational awareness and execute continuous risk assessments on foot and on vehicles. Adhere strictly to national firearm handling protocols, company safety policies, and legal standards.
Manage and maintain critical safety gear, including field radios, first aid kits, and corporate firearms.
Requirements
Required Certifications NQF 4 Nature Site Guide qualification (minimum requirement). Full Lead Trails Guide certification. Valid Advanced Rifle Handling (ARH) certification with active South African Police Service (SAPS) competency. Current DEAT / National Department of Tourism (NDT) registration. Valid, up-to-date First Aid Level 1 (or higher) certificate.
Valid South African Driver’s License with a current Professional Driving Permit (PrDP). Experience & Skills Minimum of 3–5 years of guiding experience within a luxury 4 or 5-star Big 5 safari lodge. Proven track record of logging required tracking and walking encounter hours in potentially dangerous game zones. Exceptional English fluency alongside advanced, guest-centric storytelling capabilities.
Strong physical fitness, sharp tracking abilities, and comfort working long hours outdoors in a remote ecosystem.
Benefits
Package & Benefits Competitive industry-related salary based on experience and certifications. Full live-in accommodation, shared on-duty meals, and laundry services. Corporate uniforms provided. Structured leave cycle (e.g., 6 weeks on / 2 weeks off). Statutory benefits, including Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) and optional provincial fund allocations.