ZMO 19557 - Senior Trails Guide (Sabi Sands, MP)

Employer Description

5-Star Luxury Safari Lodge

Job Description

A luxury safari lodge in a renowned Big 5 reserve is seeking a professional Senior Trails Guide to join their guiding team. This is a permanent, live‑in role offering the opportunity to deliver exceptional guest experiences through game drives and armed walking trails, while mentoring junior guides and trackers.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead game drives and armed walking trails, ensuring guest safety and enjoyment
• Interpret wildlife behaviour, tracking sign and ecological themes for guests
• Host guests during meals and lodge downtime, ensuring needs are met
• Uphold safety protocols and manage dangerous game encounters
• Maintain rifles, vehicles, and guiding equipment to the highest standard
• Mentor junior guides and trackers, supporting team development
• Deputise for the Head Guide when required
• Contribute to reserve management and lodge operations when not guiding

Qualifications

• Minimum 35 years professional guiding experience, with proven walking-trails experience in Big 5 terrain.
• Proven walking trails experience in Big 5 terrain
• Full FGASA Professional Field Guide (NQF4)
• Full FGASA Trails Guide (VPDA) qualification with current Advanced Rifle Handling (ARH) Apprentice Trails Guide status will not be considered
• Registered Tourist Guide with the relevant Provincial Registrar under the Tourism Act, holding a valid badge and guide ID
• Valid First Aid certification (Level 2 or equivalent wilderness first aid)
• Valid drivers license with a current Professional Driving Permit (PrDP)

Skills

• Confident, calm, and decisive under pressure
• Strong leadership presence with mentoring ability
• Excellent command of English; additional languages advantageous
• Warm, outgoing personality with a passion for guest engagement
• Professional presentation and attention to detail
• Team player with adaptability and problem‑solving ability

Salary/Package

R 11 000 R16 000 depending on experience and qualifications

Benefits

• Live in accommodation bachelor with own room, bathroom and kitchen unit
• Meals on duty
• 4 weeks in/2 weeks off leave cycle