Head Guide at Kontak Recruitment

• This leadership role offers the opportunity to shape the guiding experience within a vast, pristine wilderness while contributing meaningfully to a conservation mission that has been at the forefront of ecological restoration and research for more than 25 years.
• As Head Guide, you will oversee and elevate all guiding operations, lead a skilled team of guides and trackers, and deliver world-class safari experiences that reflect the reserve’s commitment to authenticity, hospitality excellence, and conservation integrity. This is a live-in role that requires strong leadership, deep ecological knowledge, and the ability to create personalised, unforgettable experiences for guests from around the world.
• You will be responsible for guiding excellence across game drives, bush walks, and interpretive activities. You will mentor and develop the guiding team, ensure the highest standards of safety and professionalism, and serve as a key ambassador for the reserve’s brand and values. Working closely with camp management, you will align guest activities with operational plans while fostering an atmosphere of conservation awareness, storytelling, and exceptional guest engagement.

Minimum Requirements:

• FGASA Level 2 or higher (or equivalent).
• Valid PDP, First Aid Level 1+, and Rifle Competency Certificate.
• Minimum 5 years of guiding experience, including 2+ years in a senior or leadership role.
• Proven experience in a luxury safari or 5-star lodge environment.
• Extensive knowledge of African flora, fauna, and conservation practices.
• Strong communication skills, with additional languages as an advantage.

Key Responsibilities:
Guest Experience & Guiding Operations

• Lead exceptional game drives, guided walks, and interpretive experiences.
• Share expert knowledge of local wildlife, ecosystems, culture, and conservation.
• Tailor experiences to individual guest interests and expectations.
• Maintain outstanding communication, storytelling, and guest engagement.

Leadership & Team Management

• Mentor and manage the guiding team, promoting high performance and growth.
• Conduct skills assessments, training plans, and ongoing development sessions.
• Schedule guiding activities to ensure full operational coverage.
• Uphold professional standards in appearance, conduct, and guest interaction.

Safety & Compliance

• Ensure adherence to safety, ethical guiding practices, and environmental regulations.
• Lead safety briefings and ensure all guiding equipment is well maintained.
• Stay updated on wildlife behaviour, reserve protocols, and first aid requirements.

Operational & Administrative Duties

• Collaborate with camp management on guest itineraries and daily logistics.
• Oversee guiding vehicles, radios, equipment, and operational readiness.
• Maintain accurate guiding records, sightings data, and incident reports.
• Support conservation initiatives, research activities, and community outreach.

Working Environment

• Remote game reserve with early starts, weekends, and public holidays.
• Physically demanding, outdoor-focused role.
• Live-in position with daily engagement in a wilderness environment.