Trails Guide Job Timbavati Mpumalanga South Africa,Outdoor/Nature/Animal Care

Location: Timbavati

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.


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