Out here
nature
teaches us
What makes
Bushwise different?
*1. Since 2012, 97% of South African graduates of the IFGA course (12 months) have secured permanent employment (excludes the COVID pandemic). * 2. Bushwise’s IFGA training includes the NQF4 qualification as part of the standard program. *3. We guarantee eligible South African graduates of our 12 month IFGA course will receive a job offer within twelve months of qualifying. Learn more here.
Our courses are wilder
Our courses offer immersive training in the African bush, combining practical fieldwork with classroom learning in Big Five environments. Whether you’re pursuing a career in safari guiding, conservation, wildlife tourism, hospitality, or simply looking to deepen your connection with nature, Bushwise offers hands-on experiences designed to build real-world skills and confidence.
Campuses across Big 5 areas in South Africa
Training takes place at Bushwise campuses in the Greater Kruger National Park, Sabi Sabi Private Game Reserve, Babanango Game Reserve, Makalali Game Reserve, and Karongwe Private Game Reserve. Each location offers diverse ecosystems, wildlife encounters, and the opportunity to learn alongside a like-minded community of wildlife enthusiasts.
Professional courses (6/12 months)
Our longer 6- and 12-month courses are designed for those looking to build a career in the wildlife industry. These courses combine hands-on practical training, industry qualifications, valuable field experience, and theoretical learning. Depending on the course, students can gain experience in safari guiding, conservation management, wildlife tourism, l...
The wild is your office
IFGA Professional Safari Guide
Our flagship course runs over 6 or 12 months in South Africa’s Big Five territory, with a 10-day Botswana field experience included from 2027. Earn your CATHSSETA Nature Site Guide (NQF2 and NQF4) and IFGA certification, with the 12-month option including a work placement and career guarantee.
IFGA Safari & Trails Guide
Three months in the bush, combining field and trails guiding. Earn your CATHSSETA Nature Site Guide (NQF2 and NQF4) qualification while gaining hands-on experience on game drives and walking trails, building the skills to start your guiding career and progress towards your Back-Up Trails Guide certification.
IFGA Professional Safari Guide
Two months of bushveld bliss, perfect for career seekers and wildlife enthusiasts alike. Learn from experts about the natural world, understand animal behaviour, and earn your CATHSSETA Nature Site Guide (NQF2 and NQF4) qualifications.
IFGA Trails Guide
Start your journey to becoming a qualified Trails Guide! Whether you’re working toward your Foundational Trails Guide certification, gaining more experience on foot for your Advanced Trails Guide assessment, or exploring Africa’s wildlife from a new perspective, this course is for you.
Primitive Trails
Spend your days walking through a private game reserve alongside a fully qualified trails guide. Spend your days tracking, trailing and sleeping under the stars in a new camp every night. Whether you’re looking for the adventure of a lifetime or to log hours and encounters towards your trails guide certification, this course is for you.
Fund your Bushwise course!
- Discounts of up to R50000.
- Grants & scholarships of up to R100000.
- Student loans available.
Shaping ultimate
wildlife guides
The International Field Guide Association (IFGA) sets globally transferable standards for wildlife and safari guides.
The letters IFGA, by their name, mean a guide has been successfully assessed against the industry’s only fully guest-centred criteria and is prepared to exceed guest expectations, every step of the way.
Bushwise is the exclusive Southern African training provider for IFGA certifications. For the select students in our IFGA 6 or 12-month course who qualify, IFGA certification comes at no additional cost.
How does an IFGA certification compare?
IFGA
CERTIFICATION
OTHER QUALIFICATIONS
IFGA
CERTIFICATION
OTHER QUALIFICATIONS
Exclusive
benefits at Bushwise
Learn from experts
and inspiring trainers
150+ years of experience, experts, award winners, highly-trained professionals.
Nico: winner of Safari Guide of the Year category in 2023.
A close-knit team of conservationists, driven by passion and love of the bush.
