South Africa: Head Guide – Ultra-Luxury Lodge – Karoo, Western Cape | Sl posted by HotelJobs

? Lodge-Based Role: Head Guide Ultra-Luxury Big 5 Game Reserve (Western Cape) ? Location: Private Big 5 Game Reserve, Ceres / Karoo region, Western Cape ? Salary: Highly negotiable (based on experience; potential for bonus buy-out for starts before end of 2025) ? Accommodation / Meals: Live-in (accommodation and meals provided) ? Work Cycle: 3 weeks on / 1 week off Role Overview A newly opening, exclusive ultra-luxury 5 (Big 5) tented lodge in the Western Cape is seeking a Head Guide to join its leadership team. This is a flagship position for a seasoned luxury safari professional who combines technical guiding expertise with flawless guest hosting and refined presentation. The ideal candidate will have a track record of delivering world-class guest experiences within a five-star+ environment and the discipline to thrive in a remote, high-performance setting. This position requires a candidate with proven loyalty and consistency in their career journey. Preference will be given to guides who have demonstrated long-term commitment and progression within luxury safari environments. Key Requirements FGASA NQF4 (Trails qualification advantageous but not mandatory). Minimum 3 years Head or Senior Guide experience within a luxury lodge (5 or higher). Strong guest-hosting skills confident, professional, warm and personable. Excellent communication and team-leadership skills with discipline and integrity. Good knowledge of vehicle and equipment maintenance, radio protocols and bush safety. Immaculate presentation and a genuine passion for sharing knowledge of wildlife, ecology and conservation. Responsibilities Lead game drives, bush walks and custom safari experiences in a Big 5 reserve. Share in-depth knowledge of the ecosystem in an engaging, refined manner. Host guests throughout their stay including meals and special functions to the highest standards of service. Oversee vehicle and equipment maintenance, ensuring safety and professional presentation. Manage the safari department and guiding team, providing leadership, training and mentorship. Collaborate closely with lodge management to deliver a seamless, world-class guest journey. Whats on Offer Live-in luxury lodge environment with meals and accommodation provided. 3 weeks on / 1 week off rotation for a balanced bush lifestyle. Highly negotiable salary reflecting your experience and five-star background. Optional bonus buy-out for candidates able to start before December 2025 (with proof of existing bonus agreement). Opportunity to help shape an exceptional new luxury safari operation in the Western Cape. ? TO APPLY: Submit your updated CV with 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.