Transformed
through nature
Take Time for Yourself and Discover the Wild
A sabbatical is more than a break from work – it’s an opportunity to rediscover yourself, gain new perspectives, and immerse yourself in a completely different world. At Bushwise, we offer life-changing programs designed to reconnect you with nature, wildlife, and your purpose. Whether you want to escape for a few days, a few weeks, or up to a year, Bushwise provides you with unforgettable experiences in the heart of South Africa’s most iconic wild spaces.
From short immersive getaways to long-term professional training, you’ll explore the natural world, gain hands-on experience, and return home with memories that will inspire you for a lifetime.
Why Take a Sabbatical with Bushwise?
Our programs are tailored for individuals seeking to take time off from their professional or personal lives to embrace adventure, conservation, and growth. Join other like-minded individuals as you witness wildlife sightings, study animal behaviour, gain leadership skills, and experience unique personal growth.
With Bushwise, you will:
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Experience Africa’s stunning wildlife and landscapes up close.
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Gain professional skills in safari guiding, conservation, and wilderness leadership.
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Make lifelong connections with like-minded people from around the globe.
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Rediscover yourself in a setting that offers peace, purpose, and excitement.
Whether you’re looking for a career boost, personal growth, or simply a chance to reconnect with the natural world, Bushwise offers programs that fit your schedule and goals.
Life-Changing Programs for Every Schedule
No matter how much time you have, Bushwise has a program for you. Each option is designed to deliver a unique experience that balances learning, adventure, and personal enrichment.
Our flagship program is a fully immersive, career-defining experience. In 6 months you’ll become a certified professional safari guide under IFGA standards. An optional 6-month work placement takes your professional development to the next level. This program is perfect for those taking a true sabbatical that can lead to new opportunities in ecotourism or wildlife guiding.
This course follows the structure of our flagship program, with one key difference: the six-month placement is with a conservation organization. After six months of studying Africa’s wildlife, plant life, and ecosystems – and earning valuable qualifications – you’ll gain hands-on experience with one of our conservation partners. It’s the perfect sabbatical to make a meaningful impact.
Step out of the ordinary and into the wild with this hands-on wildlife conservation experience. Over six months, you'll take part in real-world game reserve activities – from wildlife darting and canine anti-poaching support, to habitat management, field guiding, and much more. For those wanting to go even further, an optional six-month work placement offers the chance to live and work on a reserve or game farm, or with a conservation organisation.
This two-month program is a condensed version of our 6-month course which also allows you to become a fully qualified safari guide. Head into the world of guiding and conservation – a nonstop adventure in wildlife and nature. Gain professional skills while living in the bush, learning about wildlife tracking, ethical guiding, and more. This program is ideal for those looking to build new skills or explore a potential career change.
Explore South Africa’s most wildlife-rich reserves and immerse yourself in nature like never before. Walk within a Big Five game reserve with expert trainers, encounter Africa’s iconic wildlife up close, and learn firsthand about animal behaviour, tracking, trailing, and more. Step beyond the ordinary and into the wild.
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If you’ve already done the typical game drives, and you’re craving something more, Bushwise Advanced Safaris offer the perfect sabbatical. This is not your typical safari. You’ll spend time in the bush learning to track wildlife, learning from expert guide trainers, sleeping under the stars, and taking part in real conservation work. It’s immersive, hands-on, and designed for people who want to go beyond the sightings and truly connect with the wild.
Benefits of a Bushwise Sabbatical
Taking a sabbatical with Bushwise is a chance to do something extraordinary. Depending on your chosen program, here’s what you can expect:
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Hands-On Experience: Learn practical bush skills, wildlife tracking, wildlife darting, and conservation techniques.
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Personal Growth: Step outside your comfort zone, build confidence, and gain new perspectives.
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Professional Development: Acquire internationally recognised certifications and skills that can boost or redirect your career.
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Connection with Nature: Disconnect from the digital world and immerse yourself in Africa’s breathtaking landscapes and wildlife.
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Global Friendships: Meet people from around the world who share your passion for adventure and nature.
By the end of your sabbatical, you’ll return home refreshed, inspired, and equipped with new skills and memories that last a lifetime.
How a Bushwise Sabbatical Can Transform Your Career
A sabbatical doesn’t have to mean putting your career on hold – it can be a strategic step forward. Whether you’re looking to change careers, enhance your resume, or explore your passion, Bushwise provides opportunities that align with your goals.
Career-Boosting Opportunities:
Gain globally recognised certifications in safari guiding.
Develop leadership, communication, and decision-making skills in real-world settings.
Explore new career paths in conservation, ecotourism, and wildlife guiding.
Demonstrate adaptability, initiative, and global experience to future employers.
Whether you choose a two-month short course or a full 12-month program, a Bushwise sabbatical adds value to your personal and professional life.
Rediscover Your Purpose in South Africa’s Wilderness
If you’ve ever dreamt of experiencing the African bush, seeing iconic wildlife, or learning skills that will stay with you forever, Bushwise is your gateway to that adventure. Our programs are more than courses, they’re transformative journeys that challenge, inspire, and reconnect you with what matters most.
Imagine waking up to the sounds of the wild, learning alongside experienced guides, and spending your days exploring Africa’s incredible ecosystems. A sabbatical with Bushwise is your chance to leave the ordinary behind and embrace something truly extraordinary.
Ready to Take the Leap?
Your adventure of a lifetime is waiting. Whether you have 3 days, 4 weeks, or 12 months, Bushwise offers a program that will inspire and transform you. Take a sabbatical to reconnect with yourself, explore new possibilities, and experience Africa like never before.
Contact us today to learn more about our programs and start planning your sabbatical with Bushwise.