Bela Bela: Head Guide posted by Wild Dreams Hospitality

This private game reserve offers an exclusive and immersive safari experience in a scenic, Big Five environment. Guests can enjoy guided game drives, bush walks, and authentic wildlife encounters while staying in a luxury lodge that blends seamlessly with the natural surroundings. The successful candidate will ensure a seamless, authentic, and memorable safari experience for all guests while maintaining the highest standards of safety, conservation, and professionalism.

Candidate Responsibilities:

• Manage and lead the guiding team, including performance, training, and delegation of duties
• Oversee all aspects of the guiding department, including vehicle fleet, equipment, and operational standards
• Conduct daily game drives and guided bush walks
• Host guests for meals, morning teas, and coffee experiences during game activities
• Coordinate guest activities, including transfers and airport pick-ups if required
• Assist across other lodge departments, including maintenance and reserve management tasks as needed
• Maintain and monitor game drive vehicles, equipment, and rangers’ stock
• Ensure compliance with FGASA, safety, and reserve protocols
• Support conservation initiatives, including poaching vigilance, fire management, fencing, water, erosion, and alien plant control
• Work closely with lodge management and other departments to enhance the overall guest experience

Core Criteria:

• FGASA Professional Field Guide (NQF Level 3 or higher)
• Advanced Rifle Handling (ARH)
• Trails Guide Training (VPDA)
• Valid First Aid (Level 2 minimum)
• Valid PrDP
• Minimum 5 years’ guiding experience, including at least 2 years in a leadership role
• Strong knowledge of wildlife, ecology, conservation, and animal handling
• Excellent guest interaction and communication skills
• Proactive, passionate, and committed to personal growth and guiding excellence
• Fire management and anti-poaching awarenes

Advantageous:

• Experience in managing a lodge or private reserve guiding team
• Experience with vehicle fleet management and game viewer operations
• Familiarity with reserve management, conservation, and security procedures

This is a live-in position.