The start
of your
conservation career

IFGA
Safari Guide & Conservation Course - 12 months

Launch your career in conservation by becoming a qualified safari guide, followed by a 6-month work placement with a conservation organisation. Earn valuable qualifications and get real-world wildlife conservation experience.

DURATIONS: 12 MONTHS

NEXT START DATE: 8 JULY 2025

FORMAT: ON-CAMPUS

ACCREDITATION: IFGA & CATHSSETA

AGE: 18+

Course details

Walk a wilder path

Do you want to contribute to the preservation and protection of our natural world? If you’ve ever considered a career in reserve management, anti-poaching, conservation program management, field research, or something related, this 12-month course is a great way to get started. This is also an excellent sabbatical or gap year program.

Spend six months becoming a qualified safari guide, understanding the ins and outs of the industry and the work done on the ground. Witness endangered species, like black rhino, wild dogs, and elephants, in their natural habitat. Gain knowledge through in-depth modules on conservation in practice, learning from experts with real-world examples. You’ll then join a six-month work placement at one of our conservation partners in South Africa or internationally. This program is a deep dive into both guiding and conservation, preparing you for a wide range of careers in the industry.

Course overview

Imagine spending every day of six months living and studying wildlife in the African bush. Wake up early and jump in the game viewer, heading off in search of wild animals and rare birds, learning about the challenges facing them and their habitats. Spend your days on game drives and classroom lessons as you become a qualified guide and make lifelong friends. This course is perfect for those seeking a transformative sabbatical or gap year experience while making a positive impact on the natural world.

The first six months of your IFGA Safari Guide and Conservation course follow the International Field Guide Association (IFGA) curriculum, which develops highly skilled professionals in the field guiding industry. It is specifically developed to provide the qualifications required by employers in Southern Africa, including CATHSSETA Nature Site Guide NQF2 and IFGA certification. As a future conservationist, the skills and knowledge you gain in this training program will prepare you to better understand the challenges faced by professionals on the ground in game reserves and protected areas.

Training is held in Big Five territory, where you’ll observe animals in their natural habitat. Your home away from home could be in our Sabi Sabi or SAWC campuses in the Greater Kruger National Park, or at our Mahlahla Campus in the Greater Makalali Game Reserve. Days are spent studying, going on game drives, observing wildlife, learning new skills and putting knowledge into practice. Train with expert and award-winning instructors as you learn wildlife theory, hospitality, storytelling, conservation, lodge management, animal behaviour and much more.

Your training is followed by a six-month work placement with a selection of conservation organisations in South Africa and abroad, such as the indigenous rainforest of Kekoldi, Costa Rica, the mountainous jungles of Chiang Mai, Thailand, or the vast deserts of Damaraland, Namibia. Join field teams as they monitor endangered species, shadow reserve managers, conduct invasive species removal, learn about anti-poaching techniques, conduct your own conservation research project, and more.

The experience you’ll gain in this program will set you up for success in your career. Our graduates have worked around the world, in places like Costa Rica, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, Seychelles, Thailand, USA, and Zambia. By getting experience at a game reserve, animal rehab centre or wildlife research and monitoring centre, you can secure a permanent position as a conservationist around the globe.

Qualifications

In this course, you’ll earn your CATHSSETA Nature Site Guide (NQF2) qualification, essential for guiding in South Africa. Top performers can also earn their IFGA certification. Gain additional certifications that set you apart, such as Track & Sign, Advanced Rifle Handling, and First Aid.

Why study with Bushwise?

A guiding legacy with a conservation focus

Bushwise was founded by a passionate conservationist to meet the need for professional guides and conservationists who sustain natural environments ethically. Since 2006, we’ve trained graduates to excel in guiding and conservation roles. With our dual focus, you’ll graduate ready to guide or pursue a career in wildlife conservation management.

92% of lodges prefer Bushwise grads

When lodges see the Bushwise and IFGA name, they know you’ve received the top-tier field guiding education. Our alumni are highly sought after because of their comprehensive training. Employers know you’ll bring both field guiding expertise and conservation insight to the job.

No.1 rated on TrustPilot

Our courses consistently rank highest on multiple review platforms – from No.1 on TrustPilot to our top ratings on Google, Facebook, GoAbroad, and GoOverseas – for our excellence in field guide and conservation training. Bushwise’s success is built on equipping students for impactful careers.

Exclusive IFGA training provider

We are the sole Southern African training provider for the International Field Guide Association (IFGA) qualification. When a wildlife guide has the letters IFGA after their name, it means they were successfully admitted to and passed the most selective field guide training program in the world. They are prepared to exceed guest expectations, every step of the way.

Global opportunities

Our program’s conservation placement can take you around the world. Whether in the African bush, Patagonia, Costa Rica, or Thailand, our graduates are making a difference globally. Our graduates have gotten jobs in places like Patagonia, USA, Malawi, Zambia, Tanzania, Mozambique, Namibia and Rwanda. This program isn’t just a career launchpad – it’s also ideal for sabbaticals or gap years, offering a chance to contribute to conservation efforts globally while exploring new horizons.

Award-winning trainers

The Bushwise team have over a hundred years combined experience. Our trainers are award winners and experts in their field, and are constantly gaining experience and knowledge themselves. We have experts in entomology, ornithology, conservation, rifle handling, botany and more.

100% Employment rate

Since 2012, Bushwise has seen a 100% employment rate for South African graduates of our IFGA 6-12 month course (not including the COVID-19 period when many companies had hiring freezes), thanks to our comprehensive training and job market preparation.

Recruitment services

We offer comprehensive career counselling and recruitment services to all of our students, helping them reach their dream career and excel in their goals. This includes access to a vast alumni network, job posts and notifications, personalised job-search assistance, connections with hiring managers, and much more.

Support at every step

Feel safe and supported throughout your time with us. Safety and first aid training are a priority that we take seriously. Bushwise’s practical courses are unique due to the amount of learning support we give students. When you need extra guidance on a topic, our trainers will be there to give you the support you need.

What’s a typical day?

During training, your day will normally start between 5:30 am and 6 am. Daily activities will vary between classroom-based learning and practical sessions. We aim to give a balance of theory and practical training during each day, but we do allow for program requirements, seasonal changes and students’ needs. The balance between these two will differ from module to module.

Life on this Bushwise course

Out here with Bushwise, we replicate what life is like as a real field guide. That means early wake-up calls (oh yes!) with coffee or tea, long rewarding days in the bush, meals by the campfire, leadership responsibilities, camp duties and more.

An average day could look like this, with slight variations based on season:

5-5:30am

Wake-up call - time to make coffee and tea and grab a light breakfast.

6-10am

Morning activity, whether a game drive, bush walk, lecture, or group activity.

11am

Brunch at camp. Usually a hearty meal from eggs and french toast to fried chicken and potatoes.

Midday

Time to relax or study. Students may exercise (there are trails around camp), take a nap, or prepare for the next lesson.

3pm

Head out for another activity.

6pm

Evening meal, whether dished up in the dining area or a communal braai around the campfire.

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Dates & fees

Program fees (incl VAT)

2025

12 months* – R 284,950

2026

We will announce our 2026 program fees next year; contact us for further information.

Start dates

6 months – 7 January, 8 July

12 months* – 7 January, 8 July

*Our flagship program is the best value for money and includes an employment guarantee and free recruitment services. Each month, we offer grants of up to R50,000 off our IFGA Professional Safari Guide course (6-12 months). Ask us about our current offer!

Payment plans

Plan 1

A R15,000 deposit secures your booking
First instalment due 20 weeks before the course start date
Final instalment due 12 weeks before the course start date

Plan 2

30% of the full amount is deposited to secure your booking
The balance is split into six instalments leading up to the course start date

Plan 3

30% of the full amount is deposited to secure your booking
The balance is split into equal installments with the final installment due 1 month before your course ends

To add to your qualifications and skills, Bushwise Field Guides includes extra modules and brings in external professionals to help with specialist skills. As a result, Bushwise is not able to offer full grants to our courses. Bushwise is recognised by most major South African banks including FNB and Standard Bank. South African citizens can apply in-branch for student loans to assist with payment of course fees.

2025

2026

We will announce our 2026 program dates next year; contact us for further information.

Anyone can apply for an individual grant of up to R100,000!

Grant amounts are based on your motivation and circumstances. Click the button below to apply by 31 December.

Curriculum

The IFGA Safari Guide and Conservation Course combines six months of rigorous training with six months of hands-on conservation work placement.

The core period of your training is broken up into 4-week long training segments, with a week off in between for some downtime, self-study and reflection. Lessons alternate between classroom-based lectures, self and group study sessions, practicals in the field, guest instructors and intensive modules (for example, Track & Sign).

A typical week will include twice daily game drives, bush walks, practical experiences, lectures and self or group study periods. Each week you will be tested on that week’s modules, before moving on to the next one. This structure makes the course an excellent choice for those seeking a structured and immersive sabbatical or gap year program. This ensures that you’re well prepared for more formal, periodic exams.

To prepare ahead of time for the course, you are given free access to our comprehensive online Bushwise Field Guiding course before you arrive. This is a great way to get started with the theory and knowledge portion of your training. It’s also a wonderful way to meet other students before arriving on campus.

The second half of the program builds on this by immersing you in real-world conservation work. During your 6-month placement with one of our conservation partners, you’ll apply your skills to areas like reserve management, research, anti-poaching, or habitat rehabilitation. This comprehensive experience equips you for a broad range of careers in conservation – in South Africa or anywhere around the globe.

Topics include:

Guiding and hospitality

To be a successful guide, you must understand the nuances of hospitality, hosting guests, planning guided experiences, and tourism principles. Learn the soft skills you’ll need to provide your guests with the best experience possible.

Flora and fauna identification

From the tiniest insect to the mighty elephant, from ferns to trees, learn what makes different species of flora (plants) and fauna (animals) unique. Gain an appreciation for and understanding of biodiversity and the role each species plays in an ecosystem.

Animal behaviour

Why does a lion roar? How do impala communicate? What is that elephant doing when it flaps its ears? Ethology, or animal behaviour, allows us to better understand why animals do the things they do. Become an effective storyteller for your guests, interpreting what you see in real-time.

Viewing potentially dangerous game

In our industry, it’s essential to recognise warning signs from potentially dangerous game, and know how to react appropriately and safely to protect your guests, the animal and yourself. You’ll be trained to act with respect and strong guiding ethics around dangerous game.

Vehicle skills & 4x4 driving

Vehicle-based game drives are central to field guiding. We train you on vehicle mechanics and safety, including correct 4x4 and off-road driving skills. This requires a manual license and experience. Our over-21s will need to secure their PrDp in order to drive guests.

Advanced rifle handling

Learn how to use a rifle safely and competently, but most importantly, only as a last resort. Rifle handling forms part of your training to become a trails guide, and includes rifle and ammunition theory and handling. Successful students will earn a SASSETA certificate.

Track & sign and trailing

There’s nothing quite like reading the “bush newspaper” - looking at animal tracks on the ground and understanding the story behind them. Identify different tracks and signs, follow the footprints of animals, and learn how to interpret the messages they leave behind.

Additional modules

Our curriculum is aligned with IFGA, CATHSSETA, SASSETA, CyberTracker and other institutions. Modules include additional subjects like wilderness first aid, reptile handling, survival and navigation, conservation management, habitat rehabilitation, and more.

International Field Guide Association training

Select high-performing students from the IFGA Professional Safari Guide course (6-12 months) can qualify to train as an IFGA guide. Bushwise is the exclusive training provider in Southern Africa with this curriculum, allowing you to stand out even further from the competition and excel in your career.

Bushwise conservation work placements

After you’ve completed six months of immersive training, you’ll step into the field with a six-month work placement, gaining real-world conservation experience. This phase of the program is designed to prepare you for a career in conservation, by immersing you in the realities of wildlife and environmental work. Whether it’s reserve management, research, anti-poaching or community-based conservation, your placement allows you to put your skills into practice and make a tangible difference.

How does it work?

Throughout your training, Bushwise head trainers and support staff will evaluate your skills, performance, personality, and career aspirations to find the perfect conservation placement for you. With our extensive network of reserves, wildlife organisations, and conservation partners, we tailor opportunities to match your goals. You’ll also build a strong network in the industry and take the first steps toward a fulfilling conservation career. This personalised approach is a key reason for the high success rate of our graduates. We even offer international placements in conservation hotspots around the globe.

Types of work placements

Bushwise offers a wide range of conservation placements to suit your interests and ambitions:

Wildlife research and monitoring: Collect and analyse data to support conservation strategies.
Anti-poaching: Join frontline efforts to protect endangered species from illegal hunting.
Animal rehabilitation: Work with wildlife sanctuaries to care for and release injured or orphaned animals.
Reserve management: Assist in habitat restoration, game monitoring, and sustainable land use practices.
Community-based conservation: Promote environmental education and engage with local communities to support conservation initiatives.
Ecotourism lodge management: Gain experience in sustainable tourism operations.

Graduates can choose between a placement in South Africa or abroad in regions like the Costa Rican rainforest, Namibia’s deserts, Thailand’s jungles, and more. These placements offer exposure to diverse ecosystems and further specialised conservation training, giving your career a global edge.

This work placement phase is your chance to make a meaningful contribution to conservation while kick-starting a career that can take you anywhere in the world.

Placement partners & locations

Your placement location will be determined by your preferences and your performance throughout the course. These placement options all offer hands-on conservation exposure, where you’ll work directly with conservationists and wildlife experts while contributing to real project work. Below are just a few examples of possible placements:

Kekoldi Indigenous Forest, Costa Rica

Nestled in Costa Rica's Kekoldi Indigenous Reserve, this placement offers an opportunity to explore one of the country’s most biodiverse regions. Here, you’ll contribute to conservation efforts by identifying species, collecting data, and monitoring wildlife through projects ranging from bird, mammal, and reptile surveys to camera trapping elusive wild cats.

Lokobe National Park, Nosy Be, Madagascar

Based in Madagascar’s Lokobe National Park, this coastal conservation placement offers a unique opportunity to work across both land and sea ecosystems. Contribute to critical projects by monitoring coral reefs, seagrass meadows, and coastal wildlife, while supporting efforts to protect fragile habitats in partnership with local organisations.

Moholoholo Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre, Limpopo, South Africa

Moholoholo was established in 1991 to rescue, rehabilitate, and care for injured and orphaned wildlife while educating the public about conservation challenges. Through hands-on care and groundbreaking research, Moholoholo raises awareness and inspires action to protect the environment.

Canary Islands, Tenerife, Spain

Based on the island of Tenerife, this whale and dolphin conservation placement offers the chance to observe these incredible species ethically in their natural habitat. Contribute to vital research by recording marine life data, monitoring behaviours, and participating in beach cleanups, helping local organisations protect marine ecosystems and promote sustainable tourism.

Huay Pakoot Elephant Community Foundation, Chiang Mai, Thailand

Set in the mountainous jungles of Thailand's Chiang Mai province, this placement provides hands-on experience in one of the region's most dynamic ecosystems. Here, you can conduct biodiversity surveys, monitor species like elephants, gibbons, and reptiles, and contribute to vital conservation research through data collection and analysis.

Karongwe Game Reserve, Hoedspruit, South Africa

Just an hour from Kruger National Park, this work placement on a private Big Five game reserve offers hands-on conservation experience with partners like Rhino Revolution and EarthRanger. Track wildlife, restore habitats, monitor cheetahs, and support community education and anti-poaching efforts.

Siyafunda at Makalali, Limpopo, South Africa

Monitor wildlife, including threatened and endangered species like cheetah, rhino and elephant, in a Big Five game reserve in South Africa. Established in 2004 to assist the Greater Makalali Game Reserve with wildlife monitoring, Siyafunda is a research, volunteer, and wildlife monitoring organisation that hosts researchers and supports local communities.

Free time

With South Africa’s Lowveld landscape as your home base, you’ll be just a short drive away from incredible wildlife parks, world-renowned conservation areas and iconic destinations. Spend your free weeks exploring all South Africa has to offer – from a weekend in Kruger National Park to a week in Cape Town!

Weekend and day trips

Blyde River Canyon

The largest green canyon in the world (with lush vegetation and deep cliffs), and the third largest next to Fish River Canyon and the Grand Canyon. The Blyde River Canyon is only 30 minutes from Hoedspruit and is a destination for camping, hiking, bird watching and boat tours.

Kruger National Park

At over 2 million hectares, Kruger is a massive protected area including the iconic Big Five, wild dogs, cheetahs, endangered species, and so much more. Tourist roads span the length and width of this incredible landscape, which is just a 10 minute drive from our SAWC campus.

Panorama Route

This scenic driving route takes you along the northern Drakensberg escarpment, featuring viewpoints, waterfalls, hikes, and cultural interest points. Attractions include God’s Window, the Three Rondavels, Bourke’s Luck Potholes, and Graskop gorge.

Mariepskop Nature Reserve

A lush mountain ecosystem, with unique biodiversity including rare and endemic bird species. Mariepskop towers in the distance past Hoedspruit, and is visible from both Bushwise campuses. This reserve is excellent for hiking, bird watching and forest exploring.

Hoedspruit Town

South Africa’s safari town, Hoedspruit, is just an hour from both Bushwise campuses. Here you’ll have access to all essentials and more, including a local brewery, restaurants, shops, grocery stores and medical facilities. A great place to meet people and see local life.

Neighbouring game reserves

Limpopo and Mpumalanga are home to many of South Africa’s top public and private game reserves. You can plan a day trip to some of them, including game drives and meals, or treat yourself to a weekend away at a lodge.

Further afield

Drakensberg Mountains

This 200km long mountain range across South Africa and Lesotho is by far the region’s most impressive, with tumbling cliffs, rising peaks, crashing waterfalls and rolling valleys. Explore its hundreds of kilometres of hiking trails or go rock climbing or kloofing.

Cape Town

Head to the Mother City and visit Robben Island, Table Mountain, the District 6 Museum and Boulders Beach. A short flight from Johannesburg or Hoedspruit, it’s well worth spending some time in Cape Town during an off week or just after your course.

Durban

Located on South Africa’s east coast, Durban is a warm beach-front destination city. Surfing, diving, paddling and swimming are popular activities here. Enjoy the unique dune landscapes and coastal forests. Grab a bunny chow or ice cream cone and walk the promenade.

Johannesburg

South Africa’s biggest city, Johannesburg, is roughly a five-hour drive from campus. While many people use Joburg as a stopover city, it’s well worth a visit on its own. Absorb history and culture at the city’s many museums (like the Apartheid Museum) or on a walking tour.

Reviews

Hear directly from Bushwise alumni. Our reviews are posted here and also shared across other platforms, like TrustPilot, Google, Facebook, Go Overseas and GoAbroad.

Testimonial IFGA 6-12 month Guide - Brad Louw

Alistair Cloete, June 2024

I thoroughly enjoyed a fun nature experience that was professionally structured and worthwhile. I recommend Bushwise to anyone who is interested in working as a Field Guide, or who simply wants an authentic bushveld experience.

Abduswamad Salim, March 2024

I will always be indebted to Bushwise for the kind of opportunity it provided for my career goals. The course was intensive but fun. I learned a lot which I plan to apply for my career. For Pioneer, my personal gratitude for being a remarkable teacher, mentor and a friend.

Charlotte Nicolson, May 2023

My heart hurts to leave, I’d do it all over again in a heartbeat if I could. The trainers are awesome! Every single one as well as the rest of the staff on the ground. The course was fantastic although it was tough at the time. If you’re planning on doing this course I would suggest you put your head down and give it your all. 6 months go by quickly so put your heart and soul into it. It will be the best thing you have ever done.

Ben Mertens, May 2023

Looking back on this course I have to say that this course has exceeded my expectations by far. Sure there has been some turbulent times where we had to study and put our head in our books but this has made me and the other students gel together. What was great about this was that we individuals were put together as strangers into the bush and came back with lifelong friends with a vast amount of knowledge.

Saki Miyata, July 2022

I couldn't find any school or college like Bushwise in Japan. This is the best way to reach my dream. My 1st language is not English. Even if you are worrying about language, I highly recommend that you apply for the Bushwise course. Because this 6 months will change your life. Always Bushwise staffs, trainers and friends encouraged me. I appreciate their kindness. If you love wild life in Africa, you must come here!

Geena Wegner, January 2021

With all honesty, my 6 months at Bushwise has been the happiest time of my life. Regardless of the incredible structure of the course which teaches you all the basics that you need to know to enter the field guide industry, my trainers and fellow students are what made the course so special. Having people from all over the world come together, creates an extremely unique environment: just do it!

Brendan Davies, June 2021

My time with Bushwise was incredible. They have provided me with a rock-solid understanding of the environment and the guiding industry, while simultaneously sparking an intense passion and curiosity in everything that our planet contains. I will always be grateful to Bushwise for what they have done for me as a student and future guide.

Christopher Magee, June 2020

I must say I really enjoyed the course,and from the start of the course I knew nothing, now nearing the end I know more than I could have ever imagined.It definitely was a hard course considering what I came from of just being lazy with my work to giving it my all to learn as much as I can to pass with a 75 % and above to show my qualifications. I must thank Bushwise for allowing me this opportunity to grow.

Keira Massiah, January 2018

My experience with Bushwise has truly been one of the best things I've done. I have left my comfort zone as someone who has never been to SA before and pushed myself to do things I didn’t know I was capable of. Everyday has been enjoyable and the bush is truly magical. It has been challenging and also so rewarding. I am very happy with my decision to do Bushwise.

Katie Munro, January 2017

My experience at Bushwise has been incredible, more amazing than I could ever have imagined. Almost every day I think to myself how lucky I am to be here. The trainers are enthusiastic, passionate and it was inspiring to learn from them.

Meet the team

With nearly a century of experience combined, we are a specialised team with experts in entomology, ornithology, conservation, rifle handling, botany and more. Join us and work with award-winning staff, including Pioneer Moyo and Nico Brits, category winners from the Safari Guide of the Year competition in 2022 and 2023. Get to know these amazing individuals:

Best trainers in the industry

Darryn - Head Trainer, Mahlahla

My passion for the bush came from my parents, spending many holidays all over South Africa in various game reserves or on birding trips. I completed my training course in 2012 and began my career in the Waterberg region of South Africa. I have since gone on to work in several reserves around South Africa including Entabeni, Madikwe, Klaserie and Greater Kruger National Park. My qualifications include FGASA Level 3 Guide, Professional Trails Guide and SKS Birding. I’m currently working towards mentor status.

Watch Darryn's video

Wayne - Head Trainer, SAWC

As a child growing up in Johannesburg, I always knew that I would be doing something nature-related when I grew up. I completed my training course in 2012 and began my career in the Lowveld close to Hoedspruit. I have worked in reserves around South Africa including Kapama, Madikwe and Greater Kruger National Park. I currently hold FGASA Field Guide and Trails Guide qualifications. I am working towards FGASA Level 3 Guide and an SKS qualification.

Watch Wayne's video

Pioneer - Trainer, IFGA 2 month course

My passion for nature comes from my childhood growing up in the remote Nkayi region of Zimbabwe. I would tend the family’s cattle, collect firewood and wild fruits, and fetch water from rivers and dams. I did my FGASA course in 2007 in South Africa and have since worked as a field guide, tour operator and field guide trainer. My qualifications include FGASA Level 3 Guide, Professional Trails Guide, Trail Guide Mentor, SKS Birding, Specialist Track and Sign, Tracker 3 and FGASA Assessor. My next goal is the Professional Trailing and Cyber Tracker Assessor qualification.

Watch Pioneer's video

Fred - Trainer, SAWC

Originally from the Free State, I hold a degree in Nature Conservation and I’m working towards getting my FGASA Level 3 Guide qualification. I did a practical year with the Veterinary Services of SANParks before moving into guiding in 2015. I’ve worked at various lodges around Kruger and Northern KZN province. During my time at the lodges I got involved with training and mentoring new guides; I realised this is where my passion lies! I joined Bushwise in February 2023.

Watch Fred's video

Aneen - Bushwise Online

I grew up in Paarl and from a young age my parents introduced me to the Kruger National Park, sparking my love of the bush. I made a few detours as a singer and actress before realising that I want to spend my life sharing my passion and knowledge with guests and students. My husband, Wayne, and I are based at the Wildlife College campus. I still keep my creative side alive through my art business. What better inspiration than the African bush!?

Our support staff

Claudia - Campus Operations

Growing up, I was fortunate enough to experience the eastern coast of South Africa through to the west coast. Only in 2017 was I introduced to the bush. It has taken hold of my soul and I am so privileged to be able to assist the next generation of field guides in becoming the best they can be!

Rose - Chef, Mahlahla

Cooking is a passion of mine and I love spending time in the kitchen and experimenting with the food I make. I started as camp chef with Bushwise in 2007. Other than a period from 2012-2015, when I was a freelance chef at various lodges, I have worked for Bushwise. I’ve been the chef at the Mahlahla campus since 2015. One of the most rewarding parts of my job is working and interacting with the students. There is always something new to see and learn on campus! My sister Iris, my best friend, also works on campus which I love.

Iris - Chef, Sabi Sabi

My career journey began with Bushwise in 2011 as a camp chef. I worked here until 2016 when I briefly worked at the luxury Rukiya Lodge. I decided to return to Bushwise, where I took up the role of housekeeper. I also help my sister Rose out in the kitchen. I love working at Bushwise for many reasons, but the one that sticks out the most is the students. Whether they are from overseas or local South Africans, there is always a lot to learn from them. Plus I’ve made some really great friends!

Pulane - Housekeeping, Mahlahla

I’ve been working as a housekeeper at the Bushwise Mahlahla campus since 2011. I love living and working in the bush, it’s my favourite place. I really enjoy learning about nature and have endless opportunities to do that here. I’ve learned so much about the plants, trees, birds and animals we see around camp. The students have helped me learn some of these things and I always enjoyed speaking with the students and meeting new people.

Philip - Groundsman & Maintenance, Mahlahla

The Bushwise Mahlahla campus has been my home and place of work since 2018. I’m responsible for all the groundskeeping and maintenance of the camp. I enjoy making sure that everything looks good and is in running order for the rest of the staff and students. Before coming to Bushwise, I worked in anti poaching, which is where my love of nature began. I find it peaceful and relaxing in nature. I have a great time working with the students, I enjoy chatting with them and getting to know a little more about them.

Holding down head office

Eugene - Director

I was born and bred in Durban but have called various parts of South Africa home. I’ve always had a passion for wildlife. I studied operations management and over the past 15 years I’ve been in roles that range from restaurant owner, project and operations management as well as sales manager for various leading tourism and safari organisations. I joined Bushwise in 2021 with a mission to ensure we train the next generation of ethical ambassadors of the natural world by providing unmatched skills and experience.

Watch Eugene's video

Sharin - Operations Manager

My passion for the bush came from growing up on a farm and spending most holidays in Kruger National Park. I have worked for many years in the corporate industry and gave it all up for the bush. From working as a leopard researcher to managing 5-star lodges all over South Africa, with a bit of overlanding in between, I realised my passion is definitely people and conservation.

Watch Sharin's video

Rohandi - Administrator

I grew up in Cape Town, where I wanted to become a marine biologist growing up. I am now based in a beautiful town called Hoedspruit where my love for the African bushveld grows every day. After 10 years in the real estate industry, I finally decided to follow my passion and joined the amazing team at Bushwise. I am a mother of three beautiful children, and I love teaching them about nature.

Annie - Head Communications

Originally from the USA, I’ve lived in South Africa since 2014. I have a masters in global policy studies and my career has slowly shifted from international relations to conservation. Writing has always been a passion of mine. After I became a qualified field guide and back-up trails guide in 2019, I pursued work that combined all of my interests - which led me to communications at Bushwise!

Andrew - Trainer, IFGA 2 month course

Growing up in Newcastle's foothills, my dad ignited my love for animals. We were the go-to for snake removals in our neighbourhood. After earning my guiding qualifications, I worked across various lodges in the hospitality industry, driven by my passion for wildlife, which even led to a YouTube channel. As a head guide and concession manager, I craved something more. Now, as a guide trainer with Bushwise, I’m dedicated to sharing my passion and years of experience with others.

Nic - Head Trainer, Sabi Sabi

My guiding career started in 2009 with a Diploma in Hospitality Management. I went from lodge management to guiding, where my passion truly was. I also ran my own business and worked in restaurants, construction and game farm management. I cut my teeth at some of the best lodges from the Eastern Cape, Sabi Sands, Kalahari, Balule and Klaserie. I’m a qualified Field Guide and a Lead Trails Guide and I’m working towards FGASA Level 3 Guide and Professional Trails.

Nico - Training Manager

I was exposed to the bush early on. My grandfather played a massive role in my life, sharing his passion, knowledge and stories of the African bush with me. I have been in the tourism industry for 11 years and actively guiding for 9 years. My current qualifications are FGASA Level 3 Guide, Professional Track & Sign, Trailing Level 3, Tracker 3, Regional Birding, and Trails guide. I am working towards SKS qualifications such as birding and walking.

Watch Nico's video

Channel - Support

I am an enthusiastic, self-motivated, reliable person, I developed a love for the bush from a young age. I grew up in Thabazimbi and weekends consisted of trips to the bush exploring new places rivers, waterfalls & mountains. My dad inspired my love of nature from an early age! I have a passion working with people and my background is in sales and beauty. I enjoy seeing people succeed in life and do better; now I do a little bit of both!

Kim - Enrollment

Starting from the age of 18, I worked my way through the ranks in the hospitality industry, from a golf resort to beach resort, boutique lodges and luxury private game lodges. At the age of 30, I achieved a major goal, becoming a general manager at a luxury bush lodge. I have a keen interest in the travel industry, especially the bush. Eventually I shifted towards sales and combined my passion for conservation and the game lodge industry by helping people pursue their career goals by becoming field guides with Bushwise.

Watch Kim's video

Jason - Trainer, Mahlahla

Growing up on a small farm near a tiny town sparked my love for nature. This passion kept me away from big cities, drawing me to wildlife reserves where I immersed myself in diverse ecosystems and learned about different species. My career began in 2013 in the Eastern Cape, quickly evolving from guiding to managing teams. I've worked across various game reserves in South Africa, exploring its rich biomes. Today, I strive to share my passion with others, shaping the future guides of the industry.

Simone - Trainer, Mahlahla

From a young age, my deep love for wildlife guided me toward a career as a nature guide. Starting in the hospitality industry at 19, I found joy in sharing my knowledge and passion with guests from around the world. Now, my goal is to give back to the industry by mentoring and empowering the next generation of guides. I aim to inspire them to be ethical stewards of our natural world, equipped with the skills to make a meaningful impact.

Esther - Housekeeping, Mahlahla

Hi, I'm Esther Chabangu from Enable Village. I'm always eager to learn new things and take on new challenges. I work as a housekeeper at Bushwise Field Guide, and I absolutely love it! I’m a university graduate, and working with my team in such a dynamic environment is something I really enjoy. Being surrounded by nature every day has sparked a deep interest in wildlife for me. I feel lucky to be part of Bushwise Field Guide, where I get to learn more about the natural world and its amazing creatures.

Bellah - Housekeeping, Sabi Sabi

I started working at the Bushwise Sabi Sabi campus in 2024. I like animals and meeting new people. The campus is beautiful and we all get along well here. I enjoy getting chances to learn with the students about nature in camp or if we go on a game drive, and I enjoy my job very much. We here at the Sabi Sabi campus are just one big family!

Included

Your course fee covers your training, accommodation, meals, assessments and qualification exams, access to amazing amenities, and much more. To learn more about which qualifications are included in this course, click the qualifications tab above.

Learning resources

CATHSSETA registration
Bushwise exam and assessment fee
Conservation lessons and field experience
Training conducted by experienced long-term staff
Online masterclasses led by industry experts

Activities

Overnight sleep-outs under the stars in a wildlife reserve
Guided safari walks
Hands-on conservation activities
Visits to nature reserves
Entrance fees for excursions
Assistance with booking other extracurricular activities

Living resources

Accommodation includes:
– Shared room in a bungalow, safari tent or lodge-style housing
– Desk, cupboard and fan
– Pool
– Boma and braai area
– Space to exercise
– Social area
– Free Wi-Fi
– Library of field guiding books
– Communal or shared en-suite bathroom
– Limited laundry services
– Two sets of uniforms
– Fleece jacket, cap and beanie
All meals (except during off weeks)

Support services

Pre-departure support
Location orientation
24-hour in-country support
24-hour emergency phone
Emergency support from Bushwise on-site staff
Daily briefing
Final feedback session
Final day ceremony
Visits by staff while on the work placement (in South Africa)
Access to our alumni program

What’s not included?

The following services are not included in this program:

Flights
Medical and travel insurance
Professional drivers permit and licensing costs and transportation (21 and older)
Police clearance or background check fees
Personal workwear such as hiking shoes and jackets
International and domestic airport taxes
Additional drinks and gratuities
Recommended reference books
Transport costs to the work placement
Extra local excursions
Meals, laundry and transport during free-time weeks during the course
Accommodation, electricity, internet and meals during off-weeks and during the work placement portion of the program

Welcome to your wild home

For six months, your new home is a comfortable room in the bushveld, with the sounds of hyenas, owls, jackals (and even lions) in the distance. All of our campuses have shared accommodation in permanent safari tents, bungalows and rondavels. You'll be surrounded by nature in a truly immersive and unique campus.

The Bushwise Sabi Sabi campus is located in the world-renowned Sabi Sabi Private Game Reserve in the Greater Kruger National Park. Our Mahlahla campus is located opposite the Greater Makalali Private Game Reserve, a vast 25,000-hectare nature reserve in the Lowveld that’s dedicated to wildlife conservation. Our SAWC campus is operated in collaboration with the Wildlife College in the Greater Kruger National Park, just minutes from Orpen Gate.

All campuses are in reserves with significant plant and animal diversity, including the Big Five animals. The South African bushveld is known for its rich biodiversity and will offer you every challenge and opportunity to excel as an apprentice field guide. There is no better place in the world to complete your field guiding training and become a qualified safari guide.

Virtual tours

Campus details

Accommodation is lodge-style housing at one of our campuses. Students will share a chalet or a room that accommodates two students. Bathrooms are either shared or communal. Laundry service is provided for clothes and linen (to a reasonable extent).

It’s just a short walk along trails through campus to get to your classroom, so you’ll remain immersed in the bush during training. The campus dining facilities and other buildings are all close by, so you never have to drive or travel far for anything during your stay. At our SAWC and Mahlahla Campuses, on hot summer afternoons between activities, there’s even a swimming pool. The Sabi Sabi campus offers a shaded boma area where you can relax and look out for visitors to the riverbed.

During the day, you are free to explore campus. At our fenced campuses, you can even go for a run or wander the longer trails. We have a large variety of bird species that are regular visitors to our campus water features, as well as secretive species such as bush babies, honey badgers and civets that are often seen. In these surroundings, you can sharpen your practical skills by going on bush walks, spending time birding, and encountering the animals that roam the campus. What an incredible way to spend your free time on campus!

Explore campus

Accommodation

Housing is shared accommodation in either safari tents, bungalows or rondavels. Real beds and linens, showers and restrooms. Bush views from every room!

Facilities

Campus becomes a second home with a communal kitchen, well-equipped classrooms, study areas, a library of reference books and more.

Meals

Our dedicated chefs prepare two hot meals a day that are shared in the communal dining areas. These are supplemented throughout the day by fruit, cereal, snacks, coffee, tea and water.

Fitness and health

Don’t fall behind in your fitness while you’re in the bush! Our campuses have a swimming pool, gym/weights and fitness areas, and walking trails through the bush.

Communication

We have wifi access at certain spots around campus, so you can keep in touch with friends and family back home. Local cell phone service is also available, depending on your carrier.

Transportation

You can use a transfer service or drive yourself to campus (please note we have limited parking). For group activities where there is travel, we organise transportation.

Braai and boma

There’s nothing like sitting by the campfire, enjoying a cooked meal and watching the stars! Both campuses have bomas and areas to braai (barbecue).

Safety and security

Our campuses are contained within game fences to keep out dangerous animals. We also have 24-7 response from staff and access to emergency services nearby.

Career-boosting qualifications and certificates

Nationally recognised certificates

IFGA qualification (for top candidates at no extra cost)
CATHSSETA Nature Site Guide (NQF2) qualification
CATHSSETA Nature Site Guide (NQF4) knowledge
Firearm Proficiency SASSETA
– Unit Standard: 117705 – Knowledge of the Firearm Control Act
– Unit Standard: 119651 – Handle and use of manually operated rifle or carbine
– Unit Standard: 123519 – Handle and use of manually operated rifle or carbine for business purposes
Basic Wilderness First Aid – US ID: 119567: Perform Basic Life Support and First Aid Procedures
Cybertracker Track and Sign and Trailing qualification (CATHSSETA)

Inhouse and other certificates

IFGA 12-month course certificate
Wildlife photography workshop
Bushwise birding specialist course
Reptile orientation course
Dangerous game experience
Social media use in the field guide & lodge industry
Hospitality course
Advanced rifle handling

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Projected
career path

Global
career potential

Salary
expectations

Award

Recognition

Selective

admissions?

FGASA QUALIFICATION

Recognised in Southern Africa

Guide at a range of lodges

R150,000-350,000 per year (Basic salary + tips)

FGASA Nature Site Guide

Recognised as industry standard for guiding in South Africa

How does an IFGA qualification compare?

The International Field Guide Association (IFGA) sets global standards for wildlife and safari guides.

The letters IFGA by their name mean a guide has been successfully admitted to, and passed, the most selective guide training program in the world, and they are prepared to exceed guest expectations, every step of the way.

Bushwise is the exclusive Southern African training provider for IFGA certifications. For the select students in our IFGA 6-12 month course who qualify, IFGA certification comes at no additional cost.