Field Guide (Luxury Safari - Kalahari) at Kontak Recruitment

• Become part of South Africa’s largest privately protected conservation area and a team dedicated to restoring and preserving the Kalahari ecosystem. For over 25 years, leading the way in biodiversity conservation, ecological research, and responsible luxury tourism.
• This role is not just about guiding it is about stewardship, education, and creating transformative guest experiences in one of the world’s most unique wilderness environments.
• As a Field Guide, you will play a vital role in delivering world-class safari experiences while contributing to a long-term conservation vision that protects wildlife and habitats for future generations.

Minimum Requirements

• 2–5 years’ experience as a Field Guide or similar role in a game reserve or safari lodge
• Experience within a luxury hospitality environment is preferred
• FGASA Level 2 (minimum) or equivalent qualification
• Lead Trails Guide qualification
• Valid PDP (Professional Driving Permit)
• Valid First Aid Certificate
• Firearm competency (advantageous or required depending on reserve regulations)
• Strong knowledge of flora, fauna, and ecological systems
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Physically fit and comfortable working in outdoor environments

Role Purpose

• To deliver safe, informative, and highly engaging safari experiences that showcase wildlife, conservation principles, and the natural environment, in line with luxury hospitality standards.

Key Responsibilities:

Guest Experience

• Conduct guided game drives and walking safaris safely and professionally
• Deliver insightful interpretation of wildlife, ecology, and cultural context
• Create personalised and memorable guest experiences
• Support guest hosting duties including meals, transfers, and special requests
• Maintain exceptional standards of professionalism, presentation, and communication

Safety & Compliance

• Ensure strict adherence to all safety protocols during guiding activities
• Conduct risk assessments before and during excursions
• Maintain firearm competency and safe handling where applicable
• Ensure vehicles and equipment are maintained in safe working order
• Comply with all reserve, legal, and conservation regulations

Conservation & Environmental Stewardship

• Promote conservation awareness and sustainable tourism practices
• Record and report wildlife sightings and environmental observations
• Support anti-poaching awareness initiatives
• Educate guests on biodiversity and ecosystem management

Vehicle & Equipment Management

• Perform daily vehicle inspections and basic maintenance checks
• Maintain cleanliness and presentation of safari vehicles
• Manage guiding equipment including radios, binoculars, rifles, and first aid kits
• Report mechanical or equipment issues promptly

Administration & Reporting

• Maintain accurate daily sightings and guest activity logs
• Complete incident and maintenance reports when required
• Support research and data collection initiatives where applicable

Team Collaboration

• Work closely with trackers, lodge teams, and management
• Support interdepartmental guest service excellence
• Participate in ongoing training, briefings, and development programmes

Key Competencies

• Guest-centric service mindset
• Strong storytelling and interpretation ability
• Sound judgment and situational awareness
• Professional presentation and conduct
• Passion for wildlife conservation and environmental protection