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Course Overview

6 Month or 1 Year Professional Safari Field Guide Certification

Spend six months training in the African bush and an optional six months working on a game reserve or a predator research program.

“This was a fantastic year and I recommend it to anyone with an interest in wildlife and nature" - Susan Robertson, Bushwise student

Overview

If you are looking for a career that will be an adventure, or a hands on experience in the bush that you will never forget, this course is for you. This six month or one year course is the ideal platform for a successful career in the challenging game lodge industry. All the trainers are from The Field Guide Association of Southern Africa (FGASA).

Content is both theoretical and practical, with an optional six-month work experience placement program at a variety of game lodges and Large mammal research programs around South Africa. The curriculum includes bush skills such as shooting, 4x4 driving and bush knowledge such as conservation, reserve management, geology and animal behavior.

Unlike many other training providers, Bushwise gives students a regular exposure to working and guiding around dangerous game, such as Elephant, Lion, Rhino, Leopard, Cheetah and Hippo... This is invaluable experience and gives students excellent grounding for placements and possible future employment in ‘Big Five’ reserves.

Included in the course:

(see What's Included for full information)

  • FGASA Level 1 theory & practicals (fees included)
  • SASSETA Competency Certification
  • First aid certificate
  • General knowledge of South Africa
  • Reserve management and eco-tourism
  • Rifle handling
  • 4X4 driving
  • Hosting