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Course details
A life-changing wildlife experience
Immerse yourself in the African bushveld and get a glimpse of what a career as a field guide might offer. In 60 days of hands-on practical safari guide training and classroom-based learning, you can earn these essential guiding certificates: CATHSSETA NQF2, Bushwise Safari Guide, CyberTracker Track & Sign, Wilderness First Aid and more.
You will become a fully qualified safari guide, ready to enter this competitive industry as a Bushwise graduate. For our international students, all you need to join this course is a visitor’s visa!
Course overview
Awake each morning to the chorus of birds. Fall asleep each night hearing the distant roar of a lion. Welcome to the Lowveld. Welcome to your safari career.
Training on our 60-day Safari Guide course is held in Big Five territory, where you’ll observe animals in their natural habitat. Days are spent studying, going on game drives, observing wildlife, learning new skills and putting knowledge into practice. Train with expert and award-winning instructors as you learn wildlife theory, hospitality, storytelling, conservation, lodge management, animal behaviour and much more. Bushwise has built a reputation as a leading training provider in the safari industry and offers the most comprehensive courses available. The aim of the safari guide course is to provide a well-rounded and specialised education, and is specifically developed to provide vocational skills and qualifications required by employers in the Southern African region.
92% of lodges prefer Bushwise grads
When lodges see the Bushwise and IFGA name, they know you’ve received the top-tier field guiding education. In fact, lodges regularly request Bushwise grads for open positions. That’s because we understand what employers are looking for, and prepare you in the best way possible to enter the industry. We also work closely with key players in the wildlife sector to align our curriculum with the latest industry requirements.
Why study with Bushwise?
Bushwise Field Guides was founded by a passionate conservationist. After her long and fruitful career in conservation, she realised there is a need for professional field guides to help ethically sustain our natural environment. This passion gave birth to Bushwise in 2006, and since then, we’ve delivered the cream of the crop to the safari industry. It’s our passion, respect and dedication to nature that drives us to keep on improving our courses.
No.1 rated on TrustPilot
Our courses consistently rank highest on multiple review platforms, from No.1 on TrustPilot to our top ratings on Google, Facebook, GoAbroad, and GoOverseas. We produce the best field guides entering the industry, and lodges regularly contact us to request alumni for their job openings.
Award winning trainers
The Bushwise team includes award-winning staff, including Pioneer Moyo and Nico Brits, category winners from the Safari Guide of the Year competition 2022 and 2023. Our trainers are experts in their field, and are constantly gaining experience and knowledge themselves. We are a specialised and committed team, with nearly a century of experience combined. We have experts in entomology, ornithology, conservation, rifle handling, botany and more.
Personalised learning
Our courses and training are completely personalised, to understand each individual’s strengths and growth opportunities. When you need extra guidance on a topic, our trainers will be there to give you the support you need. During our classroom-based workbook sessions, you will engage directly with our trainers. You’ll also be taken through a detailed consolidation session of your workbooks in preparation for exams and assessments.
Support at every step
Feel safe and supported throughout your time with us. Safety and first aid training are a priority that we take seriously. Bushwise’s practical courses are unique due to the amount of learning support we give students. When you need extra guidance on a topic, our trainers will be there to give you the support you need.
Qualifications
On this course you’ll earn your CATHSSETA Nature Site Guide (NQF2) qualification, the main qualification required to guide in South Africa. Bushwise is directly accredited by CATHSSETA and we will register you for this certification when you pass your assessments. You’ll also earn many other certificates, including First Aid, Reptile Handling, Track & Sign and more. Learn more in the qualifications tab above.
What’s a typical day?
Typically your day will start between 5:30am and 6am. Daily activities will vary between classroom-based learning and practical sessions. We aim to give a balance of theory and practical training during each day, but we do allow for program requirements, seasonal changes and students’ needs. The balance between these two will differ module to module.
Life on this Bushwise course
Out here with Bushwise, we replicate what life is like as a real field guide. That means early wake up calls (oh yes!) with coffee or tea, long rewarding days in the bush, meals by the campfire, leadership responsibilities, camp duties and more.
An average day could look like this, with slight variations based on season:
5-5:30am
Wakeup call - time to make coffee and tea and grab a light breakfast.
6-10am
Morning activity, whether a game drive, bush walk, lecture, or group activity.
11am
Brunch at camp. Usually a hearty meal from eggs and french toast to fried chicken and potatoes.
Midday
Time to relax or study. Students may exercise (there are trails around camp), take a nap, or prepare for the next lesson.
3pm
Head out for another activity.
6pm
Evening meal, whether dished up in the dining area or a communal braai around the campfire.
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Program fees (incl VAT)
Dates & fees
2024
8.5 weeks – R 109,950
Start dates
8.5 weeks – 30 August, 15 October
Payment plans
A payment plan may be arranged. Please email info@bushwise.co.za for more information.
2025
8.5 weeks – R 109,950
2024
2025
8.5 weeks – 07 January, 06 March, 04 May, 02 July, 30 August, 15 October
Each month, we offer scholarships of up to R25,000 off our 60-day Safari Guide course. Ask us about our current offer!
Apply for an individual grant of up to R60,000!
The grant amount will be based on your motivation and circumstances. Click the link below to apply today.
Curriculum
The Bushwise 60-day Safari Guide course is an intensive program, comprised of in-the-field training and theory lessons with our expert trainers.
Because this course is condensed, we work hard for the entire 60 days. You might have the occasional morning or afternoon off for some down time, self-study and reflection, otherwise it’s all about learning and time in the bush! Lessons alternate between classroom-based lectures, self and group study sessions, practicals in the field, guest instructors and intensive modules (for example, Track & Sign). Modules and topics are based on foundational knowledge for IFGA, CATHSSETA and Bushwise exams and assessments.
To prepare ahead of time for the course, you are given free access to our comprehensive online Bushwise Field Guiding course before you arrive. This is a great way to get started with the theory and knowledge portion of your training. It’s also a wonderful way to meet other students before arriving on campus.
A typical week will include twice daily game drives, bush walks, practical experiences, lectures and self or group study periods. Each week you will be tested on that weeks’ modules, before moving on to the next one. This ensures that you’re well prepared for more formal periodic exams.
Topics include:
Guiding and hospitality
To be a successful guide, you must understand the nuances of hospitality, hosting guests, planning guided experiences, and tourism principles. Learn the soft skills you’ll need to provide your guests with the best experience possible.
Flora and fauna identification
From the tiniest insect to the mighty elephant, from ferns to trees, learn what makes different species of flora (plants) and fauna (animals) unique. Gain an appreciation for and understanding of biodiversity and the role each species plays in an ecosystem.
Animal behaviour
Why does a lion roar? How do impala communicate? What is that elephant doing when it flaps its ears? Ethology, or animal behaviour, allows us to better understand why animals do the things they do. Become an effective storyteller for your guests, interpreting what you see in real time.
Viewing potentially dangerous game
In our industry it’s essential to recognise warning signs from potentially dangerous game, and know how to react appropriately and safely to protect your guests, the animal and yourself. You’ll be trained to act with respect and strong guiding ethics around dangerous game.
Vehicle skills & 4x4 driving
Vehicle-based game drives are central to field guiding. we train you on vehicle mechanics and safety, including correct 4x4 and off-road driving skills. This requires a manual license and experience. Our over-21s will need to secure their PrDp in order to drive guests.
Track & sign
There’s nothing quite like reading the “bush newspaper” – looking at animal tracks on the ground and understanding the story behind them. Identify different tracks and signs, follow the footprints of animals, and learn how to interpret the messages they leave behind.
Conservation and human habitation
What role do we as humans play in natural environments? How can we be proponents of conservation and make a positive difference? Learn all about methods of conservation and the impact we have as a species on our planet.
Additional modules
Our curriculum is aligned with IFGA, CATHSSETA, SASSETA, CyberTracker and other institutions. Modules include additional subjects like wilderness first aid, reptile handling, survival and navigation, conservation management, habitat rehabilitation, and more.
Free time
With South Africa’s Lowveld landscape as your home base, you’ll be just a short drive away from incredible wildlife parks, world-renowned conservation areas and iconic destinations. Spend your free weeks exploring all South Africa has to offer – from a weekend in Kruger National Park to a week in Cape Town!
Weekend and day trips
Blyde River Canyon
The largest green canyon in the world (with lush vegetation and deep cliffs), and the third largest next to Fish River Canyon and the Grand Canyon. The Blyde River Canyon is only 30 minutes from Hoedspruit and is a destination for camping, hiking, bird watching and boat tours.
Kruger National Park
At over 2 million hectares, Kruger is a massive protected area including the iconic Big Five, wild dogs, cheetahs, endangered species, and so much more. Tourist roads span the length and width of this incredible landscape, which is just a 10 minute drive from our SAWC campus.
Panorama Route
This scenic driving route takes you along the northern Drakensberg escarpment, featuring viewpoints, waterfalls, hikes, and cultural interest points. Attractions include God’s Window, the Three Rondavels, Bourke’s Luck Potholes, and Graskop gorge.
Mariepskop Nature Reserve
A lush mountain ecosystem, with unique biodiversity including rare and endemic bird species. Mariepskop towers in the distance past Hoedspruit, and is visible from both Bushwise campuses. This reserve is excellent for hiking, bird watching and forest exploring.
Hoedspruit Town
South Africa’s safari town, Hoedspruit, is just an hour from both Bushwise campuses. Here you’ll have access to all essentials and more, including a local brewery, restaurants, shops, grocery stores and medical facilities. A great place to meet people and see local life.
Neighbouring game reserves
Limpopo and Mpumalanga are home to many of South Africa’s top public and private game reserves. You can plan a day trip to some of them, including game drives and meals, or treat yourself to a weekend away at a lodge.
Further afield
Drakensberg Mountains
This 200km long mountain range across South Africa and Lesotho is by far the region’s most impressive, with tumbling cliffs, rising peaks, crashing waterfalls and rolling valleys. Explore its hundreds of kilometres of hiking trails or go rock climbing or kloofing.
Cape Town
Head to the Mother City and visit Robben Island, Table Mountain, the District 6 Museum and Boulders Beach. A short flight from Johannesburg or Hoedspruit, it’s well worth spending some time in Cape Town during an off week or just after your course.
Durban
Located on South Africa’s east coast, Durban is a warm beach-front destination city. Surfing, diving, paddling and swimming are popular activities here. Enjoy the unique dune landscapes and coastal forests. Grab a bunny chow or ice cream cone and walk the promenade.
Johannesburg
South Africa’s biggest city, Johannesburg, is roughly a five-hour drive from campus. While many people use Joburg as a stopover city, it’s well worth a visit on its own. Absorb history and culture at the city’s many museums (like the Apartheid Museum) or on a walking tour.
Reviews
Hear directly from Bushwise alumni. Our reviews are posted here and also shared across other platforms, like TrustPilot, Google, Facebook, Go Overseas and GoAbroad.
Testimonial 60 Day Safari Guide - Antoinette Human
Ffion Trundell, March 2024
I have had the most amazing time at Bushwise and I simply can’t recommend this course enough! I’ve learnt so much and met some truly incredible and inspiring people. A special mention to Uncle Pines and Trevor who have taught me so much and have made the course so much more special and memorable; you have become two of my biggest role models! Definitely one of the best experiences of my life and I’m really going to miss it!
David Mnzava, January 2024
I had a wonderful time at Bushwise academy. I got to meet people from different countries who were all excited about nature. It really felt like paradise. The memories I collected are too exciting and I can’t wait to tell stories to my people back home. The training I received was as expected. I was not experienced in anything having to do with wildlife, but now I am feeling super confident with the knowledge I gained. I would recommend this to anyone who is looking to explore nature. This is the best place to be!
Ben Mertens, May 2023
Looking back on this course I have to say that this course has exceeded my expectations by far. Sure there has been some turbulent times where we had to study and put our head in our books but this has made me and the other students gel together. What was great about this was that we individuals were put together as strangers into the bush and came back with lifelong friends with a vast amount of knowledge.
Brendan Davies, June 2021
My time with Bushwise was incredible. They have provided me with a rock-solid understanding of the environment and the guiding industry, while simultaneously sparking an intense passion and curiosity in everything that our planet contains. I will always be grateful to Bushwise for what they have done for me as a student and future guide.
Jenny Draime, July 2020
Bushwise was amazing! Not only have I gained an incredible amount of knowledge about the bush I have also made many awesome friends! The trainers are absolutely great as well! They take the time to teach you about everything they know and especially what they are passionate about! I’d definitely recommend Bushwise.
Christopher Magee, June 2020
I must say I really enjoyed the course,and from the start of the course I knew nothing, now nearing the end I know more than I could have ever imagined.It definitely was a hard course considering what I came from of just being lazy with my work to giving it my all to learn as much as I can to pass with a 75 % and above to show my qualifications. I must thank Bushwise for allowing me this opportunity to grow.
Lucia van den Berg, January 2019
If you are tired of the same routine everyday and you want to change your life then Bushwise is the place for you. If I look back at how much I have learnt since the day I arrived at the Bushwise campus I can’t put into words how incredible the amount of information I have been able to absorb in my time here. You need to be able to deal with a simple way of and leave the luxuries at home. Its not easy and it takes some time getting use to but once you adjust bush living is the best thing ever! The noises, the animals, the birds, everything makes it amazing! You just feel emerged in the environment living on this campus. You make amazing friends and you learn things you would never expect. I would recommend this course to anyone that wants to learn everything there is to learn about the bush.
Mark Kaptein, March 2018
Awesome experience during which I learned a lot about the bush and guiding. I can’t think of a better preparation to start in the safari industry than following the bushwise course. A lot of practical activities like game drives and special skills are combined with theoretical knowledge. The trainers are very passionate about their job and I would certainly recommend the course!
Keira Massiah, January 2018
My experience with Bushwise has truly been one of the best things I've done. I have left my comfort zone as someone who has never been to SA before and pushed myself to do things I didn’t know I was capable of. Everyday has been enjoyable and the bush is truly magical. It has been challenging and also so rewarding. I am very happy with my decision to do Bushwise.
Katie Munro, January 2017
My experience at Bushwise has been incredible, more amazing than I could ever have imagined. Almost every day I think to myself how lucky I am to be here. The trainers are enthusiastic, passionate and it was inspiring to learn from them.
Meet the team
With nearly a century of experience combined, we are a specialised team with experts in entomology, ornithology, conservation, rifle handling, botany and more. Join us and work with award-winning staff, including Pioneer Moyo and Nico Brits, category winners from the Safari Guide of the Year competition 2022 and 2023. Get to know these amazing individuals:
Best trainers in the industry
Darryn - Head Trainer, Mahlahla
My passion for the bush came from my parents, spending many holidays all over South Africa in various game reserves or on birding trips. I completed my training course in 2012 and began my career in the Waterberg region of South Africa. I have since gone on to work in several reserves around South Africa including Entabeni, Madikwe, Klaserie and Greater Kruger National Park. My qualifications include Professional Field Guide, Professional Trails Guide and SKS Birding. I’m currently working towards mentor status.
Wayne - Head Trainer, SAWC
As a child growing up in Johannesburg, I always knew that I would be doing something nature-related when I grew up. I completed my training course in 2012 and began my career in the Lowveld close to Hoedspruit. I have worked in reserves around South Africa including Kapama, Madikwe and Greater Kruger National Park. I currently hold FGASA Field Guide and Trails Guide qualifications. I am working towards Professional Field Guide and an SKS qualification.
Pioneer - Trainer, 60-day Safari Guide course
My passion for nature comes from my childhood growing up in the remote Nkayi region of Zimbabwe. I would tend the family’s cattle, collect firewood and wild fruits, and fetch water from rivers and dams. I did my FGASA course in 2007 in South Africa and have since worked as a field guide, tour operator and field guide trainer. My qualifications include Professional Field Guide, Professional Trails Guide, Trail Guide Mentor, SKS Birding, Specialist Track and Sign, Tracker 3 and FGASA Assessor. My next goal is the Professional Trailing and Cyber Tracker Assessor qualification.
Fred - Trainer, SAWC
Originally from the Free State, I hold a degree in Nature Conservation and I’m working towards getting my Professional Field Guide qualification. I did a practical year with the Veterinary Services of SANParks before moving into guiding in 2015. I’ve worked at various lodges around Kruger and Northern KZN province. During my time at the lodges I got involved with training and mentoring new guides; I realised this is where my passion lies! I joined Bushwise in February 2023.
Aneen - Bushwise Online
I grew up in Paarl and from a young age my parents introduced me to the Kruger National Park, sparking my love of the bush. I made a few detours as a singer and actress before realising that I want to spend my life sharing my passion and knowledge with guests and students. My husband, Wayne, and I are based at the Wildlife College campus. I still keep my creative side alive through my art business. What better inspiration than the African bush!?
Our support staff
Claudia - Camp Operations
Growing up, I was fortunate enough to experience the eastern coast of South Africa through to the west coast. Only in 2017 was I introduced to the bush. It has taken hold of my soul and I am so privileged to be able to assist the next generation of field guides in becoming the best they can be!
Rose - Chef, Mahlahla
Cooking is a passion of mine and I love spending time in the kitchen and experimenting with the food I make. I started as camp chef with Bushwise in 2007. Other than a period from 2012-2015, when I was a freelance chef at various lodges, I have worked for Bushwise. I’ve been the chef at the Mahlahla campus since 2015. One of the most rewarding parts of my job is working and interacting with the students. There is always something new to see and learn on campus! My sister Iris, my best friend, also works on campus which I love.
Iris - Chef, Sabi Sabi
My career journey began with Bushwise in 2011 as a camp chef. I worked here until 2016 when I briefly worked at the luxury Rukiya Lodge. I decided to return to Bushwise, where I took up the role of housekeeper. I also help my sister Rose out in the kitchen. I love working at Bushwise for many reasons, but the one that sticks out the most is the students. Whether they are from overseas or local South Africans, there is always a lot to learn from them. Plus I’ve made some really great friends!
Pulane - Housekeeping, Mahlahla
I’ve been working as a housekeeper at the Bushwise Mahlahla campus since 2011. I love living and working in the bush, it’s my favourite place. I really enjoy learning about nature and have endless opportunities to do that here. I’ve learned so much about the plants, trees, birds and animals we see around camp. The students have helped me learn some of these things and I always enjoyed speaking with the students and meeting new people.
Philip - Groundsman
The Bushwise Mahlahla campus has been my home and place of work since 2018. I’m responsible for all the groundskeeping and maintenance of the camp. I enjoy making sure that everything looks good and is in running order for the rest of the staff and students. Before coming to Bushwise, I worked in anti poaching, which is where my love of nature began. I find it peaceful and relaxing in nature. I have a great time working with the students, I enjoy chatting with them and getting to know a little more about them.
Holding down head office
Eugene - Director
I was born and bred in Durban but have called various parts of South Africa home. I’ve always had a passion for wildlife. I studied operations management and over the past 15 years I’ve been in roles that range from restaurant owner, project and operations management as well as sales manager for various leading tourism and safari organisations. I joined Bushwise in 2021 with a mission to ensure we train the next generation of ethical ambassadors of the natural world by providing unmatched skills and experience.
Sharin - Operations Manager
My passion for the bush came from growing up on a farm and spending most holidays in Kruger National Park. I have worked for many years in the corporate industry and gave it all up for the bush. From working as a leopard researcher to managing 5-star lodges all over South Africa, with a bit of overlanding in between, I realised my passion is definitely people and conservation.
Rohandi - Administrator
I grew up in Cape Town, where I wanted to become a marine biologist growing up. I am now based in a beautiful town called Hoedspruit where my love for the African bushveld grows every day. After 10 years in the real estate industry, I finally decided to follow my passion and joined the amazing team at Bushwise. I am a mother of three beautiful children, and I love teaching them about nature.
Annie - Head Communications
Originally from the USA, I’ve lived in South Africa since 2014. I have a masters in global policy studies and my career has slowly shifted from international relations to conservation. Writing has always been a passion of mine. After I became a qualified field guide and back-up trails guide in 2019, I pursued work that combined all of my interests - which led me to communications at Bushwise!
Simone - Trainer, Mahlahla
From a young age, my deep love for wildlife guided me toward a career as a nature guide. Starting in the hospitality industry at 19, I found joy in sharing my knowledge and passion with guests from around the world. Now, my goal is to give back to the industry by mentoring and empowering the next generation of guides. I aim to inspire them to be ethical stewards of our natural world, equipped with the skills to make a meaningful impact.
Nic - Head Trainer, Sabi Sabi
My guiding career started in 2009 with a Diploma in Hospitality Management. I went from lodge management to guiding, where my passion truly was. I also ran my own business and worked in restaurants, construction and game farm management. I cut my teeth at some of the best lodges from the Eastern Cape, Sabi Sands, Kalahari, Balule and Klaserie. I’m a qualified Field Guide and a Lead Trails Guide and I’m working towards Professional Field Guide and Professional Trails.
Andrew - Trainer, 60-day Safari Guide course
Growing up in Newcastle's foothills, my dad ignited my love for animals. We were the go-to for snake removals in our neighbourhood. After earning my guiding qualifications, I worked across various lodges in the hospitality industry, driven by my passion for wildlife, which even led to a YouTube channel. As a head guide and concession manager, I craved something more. Now, as a guide trainer with Bushwise, I’m dedicated to sharing my passion and years of experience with others.
Jason - Trainer, Mahlahla
Growing up on a small farm near a tiny town sparked my love for nature. This passion kept me away from big cities, drawing me to wildlife reserves where I immersed myself in diverse ecosystems and learned about different species. My career began in 2013 in the Eastern Cape, quickly evolving from guiding to managing teams. I've worked across various game reserves in South Africa, exploring its rich biomes. Today, I strive to share my passion with others, shaping the future guides of the industry.
Esther - Housekeeping, Mahlahla
Hi, I'm Esther Chabangu from Enable Village. I'm always eager to learn new things and take on new challenges. I work as a housekeeper at Bushwise Field Guide, and I absolutely love it! I’m a university graduate, and working with my team in such a dynamic environment is something I really enjoy. Being surrounded by nature every day has sparked a deep interest in wildlife for me. I feel lucky to be part of Bushwise Field Guide, where I get to learn more about the natural world and its amazing creatures.
Bellah - Housekeeping, Sabi Sabi
I started working at the Bushwise Sabi Sabi campus in 2024. I like animals and meeting new people. The campus is beautiful and we all get along well here. I enjoy getting chances to learn with the students about nature in camp or if we go on a game drive, and I enjoy my job very much. We here at the Sabi Sabi campus are just one big family!
Kim - Enrollment
Starting from the age of 18, I worked my way through the ranks in the hospitality industry, from a golf resort to beach resort, boutique lodges and luxury private game lodges. At the age of 30, I achieved a major goal, becoming a general manager at a luxury bush lodge. I have a keen interest in the travel industry, especially the bush. Eventually I shifted towards sales and combined my passion for conservation and the game lodge industry by helping people pursue their career goals by becoming field guides with Bushwise.
Nico - Training Manager
I was exposed to the bush early on, spending time with my family in the Caprivi. My grandfather played a massive role in my life, sharing his passion, knowledge and stories of the African bush with me. I have been in the tourism industry for 11 years and actively guiding for 9 years. My current qualifications are Professional Field Guide, Professional Track & Sign, Trailing Level 3, Tracker 3, Regional Birding, and Trails guide. I am working towards SKS qualifications such as birding and walking.
Included
Your course fee covers your training, accommodation, meals, assessments and qualification exams, access to amazing amenities, and much more. To learn more about which qualifications are included in this course, click the qualifications tab above.
Learning resources
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CATHSSETA registration
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Bushwise exam and assessment fee
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Training conducted by experienced long-term staff
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Online masterclasses led by industry experts
Activities
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Overnight sleep-outs under the stars in a wildlife reserve
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Guided safari walks
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Visits to nature reserves
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Entrance fees for excursions
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Assistance with booking other extracurricular activities
Living resources
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Accommodation includes:
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Shared room in a bungalow, safari tent or lodge-style housing
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Desk, cupboard and fan
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Pool
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Boma and braai area
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Space to exercise
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Social area
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Free WiFi
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Library of field guiding books
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Communal or shared en-suite bathroom
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Limited laundry services
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All meals
Support services
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Pre-departure support
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Location orientation
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24-hour in-country support
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24-hour emergency phone
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Emergency support from Bushwise on-site staff
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Daily briefing
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Final feedback session
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Final day ceremony
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Visits by staff while on the work placement
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Access to our alumni program
What’s not included?
The following services are not included in this program:
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Flights
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Medical and travel insurance
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Personal workwear such as hiking shoes and jackets
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Uniforms or other Bushwise gear
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International and domestic airport taxes
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Additional drinks and gratuities
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Recommended reference books
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Transport costs to the work placement
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Extra local excursions
Welcome to your wild home
For 60 days, your new home is a comfortable room in the bushveld, with the sounds of hyenas, owls, jackals (and even lions) in the distance. Both of our campuses have shared accommodation in permanent safari tents, bungalows and rondavels.
The Bushwise campuses are based about 60 kilometres from Hoedspruit, Limpopo, South Africa. Our Mahlahla campus is located opposite the Greater Makalali Private Game Reserve, a vast 25,000-hectare nature reserve in the Lowveld that’s dedicated to wildlife conservation.
Our second campus is operated in collaboration with the Southern African Wildlife College at their Kempiana campus in the Greater Kruger National Park.
Both campuses are in reserves with significant plant and animal diversity, including the Big Five animals. The South African bushveld is known for its rich biodiversity and will offer you every challenge and opportunity to excel as an apprentice field guide. There is no better place in the world to complete your field guiding training and become a qualified safari guide.
Virtual tours
Campus details
Accommodation is lodge-style housing at one of our fenced campuses. Students will share a chalet or a room that accommodates two students. Bathrooms are either shared or communal. Laundry service is provided for clothes and linen (to a reasonable extent).
It’s just a short walk along trails through campus to get to your classroom, so you’ll remain immersed in the bush during training. The campus dining facilities and other buildings are all close by, so you never have to drive or travel far for anything during your stay. And for the hot summer afternoons between activities, there’s even a swimming pool.
Our campuses are safe from predators, so you are free to go for a walk or a run anywhere on campus. We have a large variety of bird species that are regular visitors to our campus water features, as well as secretive species such as bush babies, honey badgers and civets that are often seen. In these surroundings, you can sharpen your practical skills by going on bush walks, spending time birding, and encountering the animals that roam the campus. What an incredible way to spend your free time on campus!
Explore campus
Accommodation
Housing is shared accommodation in either safari tents, bungalows or rondavels. Real beds and linens, showers and restrooms. Bush views from every room!
Facilities
Campus becomes a second home with a communal kitchen, well-equipped classrooms, study areas, a library of reference books and more.
Meals
Our dedicated chefs prepare two hot meals a day that are shared in the communal dining areas. These are supplemented throughout the day by fruit, cereal, snacks, coffee, tea and water.
Fitness and health
Don’t fall behind in your fitness while you’re in the bush! Our campuses have a swimming pool, gym/weights and fitness areas, and walking trails through the bush.
Communication
We have wifi access at certain spots around campus, so you can keep in touch with friends and family back home. Local cell phone service is also available, depending on your carrier.
Transportation
You can us a transfer service or drive yourself to campus (please note we have limited parking). For group activities where there is travel, we organise transportation.
Braai and boma
There’s nothing like sitting by the campfire, enjoying a cooked meal and watching the stars! Both campuses have bomas and areas to braai (barbecue).
Safety and security
Our campuses are contained within game fences to keep out dangerous animals. We also have 24-7 response from staff and access to emergency services nearby.
Career-boosting qualifications and certificates
The 60-day Safari Guide course offers the essential qualifications you need to legally guide in South Africa, and more. The main qualification required at any lodge or provider is CATHSSETA Nature Site Guide (NQF2). Bushwise is directly accredited by CATHSSETA and we will register you for this certification when you pass your assessments.
We also train according to the exclusive International Field Guide Association (IFGA) standards, which will make your CV stand out from the rest. Additional qualifications are detailed below. Learn more about Bushwise and South Africa’s guiding qualifications here.
Nationally recognised certificates
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CATHSSETA Nature Site Guide (NQF2) qualification
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CATHSSETA Nature Site Guide (NQF4) knowledge
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Basic Wilderness First Aid – US ID: 119567: Perform Basic Life Support and First Aid Procedures
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Cybertracker Track and Sign assessment (CATHSSETA)
Inhouse and other certificates
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Bushwise Safari Guide course certificate
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Reptile orientation course
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Dangerous game experience
Bushwise
60-day Safari Guide course
This course is a condensed version of our flagship International Field Guide Course – offering essential theoretical knowledge and practical experience to students who wish to start a career as a field guide or have a life-changing safari experience.
DURATIONS: 60 DAYS
NEXT START DATE: 15 OCT 2024
FORMAT: ON-CAMPUS
ACCREDITATION: CATHSSETA
AGE: 18+
