South Africa: Senior Guide posted by Wild Dreams Hospitality

About the Role

Wild Dreams Hospitality is seeking an experienced and passionate Senior Guide to deliver exceptional safari experiences in a Big 5 environment. As part of our team, you will support the mentoring and development of junior guides, uphold conservation principles, and ensure compliance with reserve protocols while maintaining a consistently high standard of guiding.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct professional, engaging game drives and bush walks (where permitted).
• Ensure guest safety in an unfenced Big 5 environment.
• Deliver ethical and memorable wildlife encounters.
• Interpret wildlife behavior, ecology, and conservation principles accurately.
• Adapt guiding style to guest needs and respond professionally to feedback.
• Uphold and promote responsible tourism and conservation values.
• Adhere to reserve rules, wildlife protocols, and carrying capacities.
• Act as a role model for ethical guiding and environmental stewardship.
• Support conservation initiatives, data collection, and reporting.
• Follow lodge SOPs, reserve rules, and legal requirements.
• Maintain situational awareness and clear radio communication.
• Respond effectively to emergencies or wildlife-related incidents.
• Ensure vehicles and equipment are maintained and fit for use.
• Mentor and coach junior and trainee guides.
• Assist with assessments, training, and on-the-job development.
• Lead by example in professionalism, guest interaction, safety, and conservation ethics.
• Support the Safari Manager with team coordination when required.
• Assist with vehicle, equipment, and resource maintenance.
• Participate in briefings, debriefings, and operational planning.
• Support special activities, photographic safaris, walking safaris, and private drives where qualified.

Requirements

• FGASA Professional Field Guide qualification (Level 2 minimum recommended)
• Trails Guide qualification advantageous
• Valid PDP and driver’s license (Code B / C1)
• First Aid Level 2 (minimum)
• Minimum 3–5 years’ guiding experience in a Big 5 reserve
• Clear criminal record

Qualifications

• FGASA Professional Field Guide qualification (Level 2 minimum recommended)

Salary & Benefits

This is a live-in position with a competitive salary, meals provided, medical aid, and provident fund. Accommodation includes a single room with an ensuite bathroom.

[No further details on salary or benefits are available] [DO NOT include a “How to Apply” section – this is added automatically]