South Africa: Senior Guide posted by Wild Dreams Hospitality

About the Role

We are seeking a highly experienced and passionate Senior Guide to join our team at Wild Dreams Hospitality in KwaZulu Natal, South Africa. As a Senior Guide, you will be responsible for delivering safe, educational, and memorable safari experiences in a Big 5 environment, while mentoring and developing junior guides, upholding conservation principles, and ensuring compliance with reserve protocols.

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

• Completed FGASA Professional Field Guide course
• Trails Guide certification (if applicable)

Salary & Benefits

This is a live-in position with a competitive salary and benefits package, including meals provided, medical aid, and provident fund. The successful candidate will be expected to work a 3/1 work cycle and reside in a single room with an ensuite bathroom.

[Note: This section was rewritten to only include the original information about the package]