Job Description
About the Role
We are seeking an ideal couple to join our team at Wild Dreams Hospitality in Zululand, offering a unique opportunity for a hands-on, mature, and adaptable individual to immerse themselves in a remote Big 5 reserve environment. As a Trails Guide or Lodge Manager, you will be responsible for delivering exceptional guest experiences, ensuring safety protocols are followed, and maintaining high standards of luxury hospitality.
Key Responsibilities
### Trails Guide
- Conduct interpretive game drives and advanced Big 5 walking safaris
- Lead trails experiences in accordance with reserve safety protocols and firearm procedures
- Deliver engaging, conservation-focused guest experiences with strong ecological knowledge
- Ensure guest safety and maintain high guiding and hosting standards at all times
- Assist with vehicle, equipment, and guiding logistics maintenance
- Support lodge operations and guest hosting where required
- Occasionally assist with guiding responsibilities at other lodges or camps within the reserve when operationally needed
### Lodge Manager
- Oversee all day-to-day lodge operations ensuring seamless guest experiences
- Manage Front of House, Housekeeping, Food & Beverage, and overall lodge presentation
- Lead and mentor lodge staff while maintaining high service and operational standards
- Handle guest relations, hosting, and resolve any operational challenges professionally
- Manage lodge administration, stock control, reporting, and departmental coordination
- Work closely with the guiding team and kitchen to ensure a cohesive guest experience
- Ensure lodge standards align with luxury 5-star hospitality expectations
Requirements
### Trails Guide
- FGASA Full Trails Guide qualification (essential)
- Valid PDP, rifle competency, and up-to-date First Aid certification
- Previous experience guiding within a Big 5 reserve environment
- Strong hosting ability and guest engagement skills
- Calm, professional, and safety-conscious approach
- Passion for conservation, wildlife, and environmental education
- Stable career history with contactable references
- Comfortable living and working in a remote, unfenced Big 5 environment
### Lodge Manager
- Previous experience managing a luxury 5-star safari lodge is essential
- Proven ability to lead and manage a lodge team within a remote environment
- Strong guest relations and hosting experience
- Excellent organisational, administrative, and communication skills
- Hands-on management style with high attention to detail
- Ability to remain calm under pressure and adapt operationally when needed
- Stable work history with excellent contactable references
- Comfortable living and working in a remote, unfenced Big 5 environment
Qualifications
No formal education or certifications are required for this position. However, please note that previous experience and qualifications will be considered during the selection process.
Salary & Benefits
The salary for this live-in position is as follows:
- Trails Guide: R18,000 per annum
- Lodge Manager: R28,000 – R35,000 per annum (dependent on experience)
Note: Please apply directly to Wild Dreams Hospitality with your resume and a cover letter explaining why you are the ideal candidate for this role.
How to Apply
Click the green “Go Apply” button below to apply directly online with the employer.
About Tourism/Hospitality Management Jobs in Kwazulu-Natal
The tourism and hospitality management sector in Kwazulu-Natal is a rapidly growing industry, with a strong demand for skilled professionals to cater to the increasing number of tourists visiting the province. Typically, job seekers in this field can expect to find opportunities in various sectors, including accommodation, food and beverage, tour operations, and conservation. Generally, these roles involve managing day-to-day operations, ensuring customer satisfaction, and driving business growth.
In terms of compensation, salaries for tourism and hospitality management positions in Kwazulu-Natal typically fall within a broad range of R500 000 to R1 million per annum, depending on factors such as experience, company size, and industry sector. However, it is essential to note that actual salaries can vary significantly, and these figures are only a general guideline. For example, salaries for entry-level positions may start at the lower end of this range, while senior management roles or those in large hospitality companies may command higher salaries.
Common skills required for tourism and hospitality management roles include excellent communication and interpersonal skills, the ability to work well under pressure, and strong leadership and problem-solving abilities. Additionally, knowledge of local culture, languages, and customs can be highly beneficial. Other essential skills include financial management, marketing, and customer service skills. Experience in operations management, human resources, or a related field is often also valuable.
The tourism and hospitality industry in Kwazulu-Natal is diverse, with opportunities available in various sectors, including hotels, resorts, game lodges, tour operators, and national parks. The province’s rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty make it an attractive destination for tourists, driving demand for skilled professionals to cater to their needs.
Career development opportunities are generally excellent in the tourism and hospitality industry, with many roles offering potential for career progression and advancement. Typical career paths may include management positions, specialist roles such as event planning or customer service, or specialized areas like sustainable tourism or heritage management. With experience and further education, professionals can move into senior leadership roles or start their own businesses.
This information provides general career guidance. Actual salaries and requirements vary by employer.
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