Assistant Head Guide (Full Trails)

Recruiter: Bright Search Recruitment (Pty) Ltd

Job Ref: JHB003547/Tori

Date posted: Thursday, August 27, 2026

Location: Pongola, South Africa

SUMMARY: The Assistant Head Guide supports the Head Guide in overseeing all guiding operations while delivering exceptional safari experiences to guests. This role combines leadership with hands-on guiding responsibilities, including conducting game drives and walking safaris, mentoring junior guides, maintaining guiding standards, ensuring compliance with safety procedures, and promoting conservation initiatives. The successful candidate will be passionate about wildlife, guest service, and the development of the guiding team.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct interpretive game drives and walking safaris to the highest professional standard.
• Ensure the safety of guests and staff during all guiding activities.
• Assist the Head Guide in managing the daily operations of the guiding department.
• Supervise, mentor, and train junior guides and guide trainees.
• Maintain exceptional guest engagement and provide informative wildlife interpretations.
• Ensure all guiding activities comply with reserve regulations and safety standards.
• Assist with guide assessments, performance management, and ongoing skills development.
• Coordinate daily safari schedules and guide allocations when required.
• Conduct vehicle and equipment inspections to ensure operational readiness.
• Report maintenance requirements for safari vehicles and guiding equipment.
• Maintain accurate records of wildlife sightings and contribute to conservation monitoring.
• Promote responsible tourism and environmental conservation practices.
• Assist with anti-poaching awareness and conservation initiatives where applicable.
• Handle guest queries and resolve concerns professionally.
• Support lodge operations during emergencies and special events.
• Ensure all First Aid and emergency procedures are followed.

POSITION INFO: Minimum Qualifications FGASA Level 2 qualification (essential). Full Trails Guide qualification (Lead Trails Guide). Valid First Aid Certificate (Level 2 or higher preferred). Valid PrDP (Professional Driving Permit). Valid South African driver's licence. Firearm competency (where required by reserve regulations). ARH (Advanced Rifle Handling) certification is advantageous. Experience Required Minimum 3-5 years' experience as a Field Guide within a luxury safari lodge or private game reserve. Previous experience conducting guided walking safaris. Supervisory or leadership experience within a guiding team. Experience mentoring and training junior guides. Sound knowledge of wildlife behaviour, ecology, and conservation. Knowledge & Skills Excellent guiding and interpretive skills. Strong leadership and team management abilities. Extensive knowledge of South African flora, fauna, birds, reptiles, and ecosystems. Excellent communication and guest interaction skills. Strong decision-making and problem-solving abilities. High level of safety awareness and emergency response capability. Vehicle operating and basic maintenance knowledge. Computer literacy for reports and guest communication. Excellent organisational and planning skills. Personal Attributes Passion for wildlife conservation and eco-tourism. Professional, mature, and responsible. Excellent interpersonal and leadership skills. Calm under pressure with sound judgement. Positive attitude and strong work ethic. Flexible and adaptable. Physically fit and capable of working outdoors in varying weather conditions. High attention to detail. Strong commitment to delivering exceptional guest experiences. Other Requirements Willingness to work weekends, public holidays, and rotational shifts. Ability to live on-site if required. Excellent spoken and written English; additional languages are advantageous. Valid passport (advantageous for cross-border reserves). Clean disciplinary and driving record. Preferred Competencies Luxury lodge guiding experience. Experience with wildlife photography assistance. Knowledge of reserve management systems. Experience in conservation projects and wildlife monitoring. Ability to assist in lodge operations when required. Strong understanding of health, safety, and environmental compliance standards.