South Africa: Head Guide – Luxury Game Reserve – Gqeberha Area | Sl posted by Kendrick Recruitment

HEAD GUIDE (TRAILS) VACANCY Salary: R25,000 (Negotiable, DOE), Live in Accommodation: Staff housing provided Location: Big 5 Private Game Reserve, Eastern Cape (approx. 45 minutes from Gqeberha/Port Elizabeth) Property Type: 4* & 5* Safari Lodges within a private Big 5 reserve Client is open to couple’s applications where the partners have relevant 5* Lodge Management or Head Chef experience. Role Overview A prestigious lodge portfolio within a Private Big 5 Game Reserve is seeking a highly experienced Head Guide (Trails) to lead its guiding team across two luxury safari lodges. This role is suited to a professional with strong leadership, advanced trails qualifications, and a passion for guest experience and conservation. As Head Guide, you will be responsible for setting the standard in guiding excellence, delivering immersive guest experiences, and overseeing compliance with reserve protocols. You will also mentor and develop junior guides, ensuring the highest standards of professionalism and safety on game drives and walking safaris. Key Responsibilities Lead the guiding team in delivering world-class safari experiences, both on vehicle and on foot. Conduct advanced bush walks, interpretive experiences, and conservation-focused guiding. Mentor and train junior rangers, providing feedback and development opportunities. Ensure safety protocols, FGASA standards, and reserve regulations are strictly adhered to. Support lodge management in guest hosting, activity planning, and conservation initiatives. Maintain upkeep of guiding equipment, vehicles, and trails compliance records. Contribute to conservation education and guest awareness of local ecosystems. Minimum Requirements FGASA NQF4 Field Guide (essential). Lead Trails Guide Qualification (essential). Valid PDP , First Aid Level 1 , and Rifle Competency . Minimum 3 years’ Senior guiding experience at a luxury 4–5* lodge. Strong leadership and mentoring skills with a passion for guide training. Excellent guest interaction skills with a warm, engaging personality. Solid knowledge of Eastern Cape fauna, flora, and conservation issues (advantageous). Package & Benefits Salary: R25,000 negotiable (based on experience). Live-in accommodation is provided on-site. Career growth within an established luxury lodge group. Opportunity to work in a renowned private Big 5 reserve. TO APPLY: Submit your CV, contactable references, and a recent head & shoulders photograph ASAP. Please Note: If you do not receive feedback within 7 working days, kindly consider your application unsuccessful.