Master
the wild
from all angles

IFGA
Professional Safari Guide & Trails Guide Course - 3 months

This course runs for 87 days and gives you a solid foundation in two core areas of guiding – vehicle-based field guiding and walking safaris. You’ll qualify as an NQF2 Nature Site Guide and begin logging trails hours towards your Foundational Trails Guide certification or your Advanced Trails Guide qualifications – the perfect way to build both vehicle-based and trails guide experience.

DURATIONS: 3 MONTHS

NEXT START DATE: 7 JAN 2026

FORMAT: ON-CAMPUS

ACCREDITATION: IFGA & CATHSSETA

AGE: 18+

Course details

Game drives to guided trails

In just three months, you’ll take two big steps towards building your guiding career. Start with two months of safari guide training, where you’ll build the skills and knowledge to earn your CATHSSETA NQF2 Nature Site Guide qualification. Then you’ll move into 27 days of trails guide training, learning to track wildlife on foot and logging hours towards your Foundational Trails Guide certificate. By the end, you’ll have practical experience both behind the wheel and on foot – the foundation of a strong guiding career.

Course overview

Life on this course is full-on and immersive. Mornings begin with the bush coming alive around you, evenings end under a sky full of stars. Between game drives and bush walks, you’ll be challenged to think like a guide, developing your observation, interpretation, and problem-solving skills.

You’ll learn from award-winning instructors, and every day gives you opportunities to practice leadership, storytelling, and ethical guiding. By the end of the three months, you’ll leave with hands-on experience, confidence, and a real sense of what it means to be a professional safari guide.

Qualifications
On this course, you’ll earn your CATHSSETA Nature Site Guide (NQF2) qualification, the main credential required to guide in South Africa. You’ll also gain practical certificates in First Aid, Reptile Handling, Track & Sign, and more. During the 27-day trails guide portion, you’ll log hours on foot and record wildlife encounters, building experience that counts towards your Foundational Trails Guide certificate. Learn more in the qualifications tab above.

Why study with Bushwise?

Bushwise was founded in 2006 by a passionate conservationist who, after a long and rewarding career in the field, saw a growing need for professional, qualified field guides to help protect and sustain our natural environment.

That same passion continues to guide us today. Since our early days, we’ve been committed to producing top-tier graduates for the safari industry, known for their skill, ethics, and deep respect for nature. It's this dedication that drives us to constantly refine and improve our training and to help shape the future of ethical guiding in Africa.

No.1 rated on TrustPilot

We’re proud to be the top-rated field guide training provider on TrustPilot, with consistently high ratings across other review platforms like Google, Facebook, GoAbroad, and GoOverseas. Our graduates leave well-prepared, professional, and confident, and their reviews speak volumes about the quality of our training and support.

Exclusive IFGA training provider

We are the only Southern African training provider that offers IFGA certification. This globally recognisable certification highlights guides who excel in soft skills such as communication, presence, storytelling, and the ability to create unforgettable guest experiences. It reflects a guide’s ability to connect, lead, and leave lasting impressions on every guest. IFGA certification helps candidates stand out and signals to lodges which guides are exceptional.

Award winning trainers

The Bushwise team includes award-winning guides such as Pioneer Moyo and Nico Brits, category winners at the Safari Guide of the Year competition in 2022 and 2023. Our trainers are experts dedicated to continually expanding their knowledge and skills. Together, they bring over 150 years of combined experience across specialities like entomology, ornithology, conservation, rifle handling, botany, and more, making us a specialised and committed team.

Personalised learning

Our courses and training are completely personalised, delivered with an understanding of 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

At Bushwise, you’re never on your own. From day one, we prioritise your safety, wellbeing, and learning. Our practical courses stand out for the level of personalised support we offer, including thorough first aid training and ongoing academic guidance. Whether you need help grasping a concept or navigating field life, our trainers, office, and support staff are there every step of the way.

Life on this Bushwise course

Your days will combine classroom learning with hands-on practical sessions, providing the balance of theory and field experience necessary to build your guiding career. The schedule adapts to seasonal changes and course requirements, but here’s a taste of what a typical day might look like on both sections of this course:

Field Guiding (First 2 Months)

Wake up to the sounds of the bush and start your day with coffee or tea and a light breakfast. Mornings are usually spent on game drives, lectures, or group exercises, learning to drive guests, interpret wildlife, and build essential guiding knowledge.

5-5:30am

Wake-up call and breakfast

6-10am

Morning activity – game drive, practical session, or classroom lesson

11am

Brunch at camp – from eggs and toast to hearty mains

Midday

Free time to study, exercise on the camp trails, or rest

3-6pm

Afternoon practical – another game drive, tracking session, or module

6pm onwards

Dinner in the dining area or around the campfire, camp duties, and reflection

Trails Guiding (Final 27 Days)

Shift from vehicle-based safaris to walking in the bush. Days start early with guided walks, building your tracking skills and bush awareness. Expect practical scenarios, hands-on learning, and even a guided sleep-out to experience the bush like a true trails guide.

5-5:30am

Wake-up and light breakfast

6-10am

Morning bush walk – tracking wildlife, navigation exercises, practical scenarios

11am

Brunch at camp

Midday

Rest, study, or prep for afternoon activities

3-6pm

Afternoon walk or tracking exercise, possibly with a guided sleep-out or evening observation

6pm onwards

Dinner, reflection, and logging your walking hours

This is a great place to outline the details of the shipping policy including the shipping methods, timelines, packaging and costs. Use plain, straightforward language to build trust with customers.

This is also an opportunity to add any relevant information regarding the shipping policy that is important for customers to know. This is key for managing their expectations and keeping them loyal customers.

Dates & fees

Program fees (incl VAT)

2026

87 days– R 159,950

Anyone can apply for an individual grant of up to 25% off!

Grant amounts are based on your motivation and circumstances. Click the button below to apply by 30 Sept.

Start dates

2026

87 days– 7 January, 7 March, 5 May, 3 July, 31 August

Payment plans

A payment plan may be arranged. Please email info@bushwise.co.za for more information.

Field Guiding (2 months)

The first part of the course focuses on professional safari guide training. You’ll combine in-the-field learning with classroom sessions, covering everything from game drives and bush observation to wildlife theory, storytelling, lodge operations, and Track & Sign. Most days are full-on, but there’s occasional time for self-study and workbook sessions. Before arriving, you’ll get access to our online Bushwise Field Guiding course, so you can start learning the theory and meet other students.

A typical week includes morning and afternoon game drives, practical exercises, lectures, and group or individual study. Short weekly assessments keep you on track for the final exams and practical evaluations.

Trails Guiding (27 days)

The second part of the course takes you onto the trails, walking in the bush and learning to track and understand wildlife on foot. You’ll take part in practical scenarios and theoretical lessons, while logging your encounters with a variety of wildlife. This section helps you build your bush awareness, develop guiding skills on foot, and work towards your Foundational Trails Guide certificate.

Topics include:

Field guiding and hospitality

Develop the skills to host guests, plan guided experiences, and apply tourism principles with confidence. Master the soft skills that create unforgettable guest experiences.

295661212-2022-nov-03-17-17-20-000000-52450859008_a988599927_o.jpg

Backup & trails guiding

Build confidence on foot through walking safaris, trail navigation, tracking, and wildlife observation. Gain practical experience and awareness as you work toward your Foundational Trails Guide certificate.

Flora and fauna identification

Explore biodiversity from insects to elephants, ferns to towering trees. Learn to identify species and understand the role each plays in a thriving ecosystem.

Animal behaviour

Interpret animal behaviour in real time and bring sightings to life for your guests. Use ethology to understand why animals act the way they do and become a skilled storyteller in the field.

Viewing potentially dangerous game

Recognise the warning signs of potentially dangerous game and respond with respect, safety, and professionalism. Learn to guide in the vehicle and on foot with strong ethics in every encounter.

Vehicle skills & 4x4 driving

Master the mechanics and safety of game drive vehicles. Train in 4x4 and off-road driving, with a manual licence required.

Track & sign

Read the “bush newspaper” by studying tracks and signs left behind in the wild. Identify footprints, interpret markings, and uncover the stories animals leave in their wake.

Conservation and human habitation

Examine the role humans play in natural environments and discover ways to drive conservation forward. Explore methods that support the planet and reduce our impact as a species.

Additional modules

Benefit from a curriculum aligned with IFGA, CATHSSETA, SASSETA, CyberTracker, and other institutions. Expand your skills through wilderness first aid, reptile handling, survival and navigation, conservation management, habitat rehabilitation, and more.

Free time

Although free time during your course is limited, many students choose to explore a bit before or after their time on campus.

With South Africa’s Lowveld as your home base, you’ll be within easy reach of world-renowned conservation areas, iconic wildlife parks, and unforgettable travel experiences. Whether it’s a weekend trip to Kruger National Park or a week exploring Cape Town’s coastline and culture, there’s no shortage of adventures waiting for you.

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 even visible from some of the 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.

Joseph Andrew Giglio , May 2025

Bushwise is the best Safari Guide course provider in South Africa. The2 month course is the perfect combination of theory and practical skills to prepare you for a guiding career.

Emiel Eric Zyde , May 2025

I recently completed the 2 month Bushwise course and it was one of the most incredible experiences of my life. Thanks to the trainers, I learnt so much in a short period of time, both about the natural environment and about myself.

Caitlin Rose Arnott , May 2025

I did the Bushwise 2 month course and I loved every minute of it! The trainers were excellent and had so much knowledge to share with us. I’m still amazed by how much we’ve learnt in the last 2 months and I’m grateful for all the experiences we’ve shared!

Sean Coetzee , April 2025

Great course , definitely worthwhile.

Andries Strydom, December 2024

It was really amazing. I learned a lot and there was a good balance between the studying and enjoying the wilderness. The trainers were amazing and you can see that they enjoyed teaching everything that nature held in store for us, it was a great experience meeting new people from around the world that have such passion for the animals and nature. All in all, I had a blast.

Cara-Joy Kupferman, December 2024

I first discovered Bushwise through eco training when doing research and I knew straight away I wanted to study under them and to this day I don't regret it. I've met so many new people and made so many new friends. The experience that I've gained here is incredible, I went from being a shy, quiet person who struggled to speak in front of large crowds and had zero confidence to being able to guide with confidence and speak to people without hesitation, this was all thanks to my incredible trainers ( Andrew, Pines and Trevor) I wouldn't have made it this far without their help. I've gained so much knowledge about the animals and learnt so many new things about them, like their warning signs. The birding day with Andrew and Wayne helped me gain more knowledge about birds and I discovered just how many bird species there are in a short amount of time. The staff are all friendly, greeting you with a smile and great enthusiasm so early in the morning, I couldn't have asked to study under a better establishment than Bushwise.

Sunè Lourens, October 2024

This course is a lot of hard work and dedication but it is so much fun and we get to experience a lot of things that stay with us forever, Bushwise is definitely the top choice from my side.

Cayde Shaun Tappin , October 2024

I recently completed the IFGA 2 month course at Bushwise, and I'm still grinning from ear to ear. The experience was nothing short of phenomenal! The trainers, Pioneer and Andrew, were absolutely exceptional - knowledgeable, passionate, and dedicated to ensuring our success. The fast-paced course was intense, but with their expert guidance, I felt supported every step of the way. Pioneer and Andrew's patience, wisdom, and enthusiasm made even the most challenging moments enjoyable. Their ability to balance theory and practical application was impressive, and their feedback was always constructive and encouraging. Bushwise's curriculum is comprehensive, covering everything from conservation to ecology and more. The hands-on training and real-world scenarios prepared me for the demands of working in the bush. I gained invaluable skills, confidence, and a deeper appreciation for the natural world. The Bushwise community is warm and welcoming, with a strong emphasis on teamwork and camaraderie. I formed lasting bonds with my fellow students and instructors, creating a network of like-minded professionals. Highlights of my experience:

- Expert trainers who genuinely care about student success

- Comprehensive curriculum with practical application

- Stunning wilderness settings for training

- Strong focus on safety and risk management

- Amount of knowledge gained

- The epic sunsets

If you're considering a Bushwise course, look no further than Bushwise. The IFGA 2 month course may seem daunting, but trust me, it's worth every minute. Andrew and Pioneer, and the entire Bushwise team will equip you with the skills, knowledge, and passion to excel in the industry. Thank you, Bushwise, for an unforgettable adventure and a lifelong foundation in wilderness expertise!

Irmina Jablonska, October 2024

The IFGA 2 month course I took is an extremely well structured, hands-on, intensive programme for anyone who wants to learn how to create and conduct a professional guided experience in African Wilderness. The immense passion exuded by the trainers, Andrew and Pines specifically, is contagious and their authentic engagement in students' learning process, proactive approach and unmatched knowledge and experience in the field made the course a truly immersive, enriching and extremely valuable. I am extremely happy I took this course and couldn't be more grateful for all the learnings I have gained in the mere time of 2 months. Thank you Bushwise for creating this opportunity and bringing African Wilderness closer to people's hearts. The impact is noticeable!

Anja Mackey, October 2024

The course itself is a lot of fun, hard work but fun and the trainers are friendly and helpful.

Abduswamad Salim, March 2024

I will always be indebted to Bushwise for the kind of opportunity it provided for my career goals. The IFGA 2 month course was intensive but fun. I learned a lot which I plan to apply for my career. For Pioneer, my personal gratitude for being a remarkable teacher, mentor and a friend.

Alistair Jocelyn Hugh Cloete, March 2024

I thoroughly enjoyed a fun nature experience that was professionally structured and worthwhile. I recommend Bushwise to anyone who is interested in working as a Field Guide, or who simply wants an authentic bushveld experience.

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!

Michael Goncalves, November 2023

It’s been super cool, I’ve learnt a ton and got to meet really cool people.

Ben Mertens, May 2023

Looking back on this IFGA 2 month 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 field guiding, hospitality, and Africa’s iconic wildlife. Meet the rest of our passionate trainers and our dedicated support team here.

Best trainers in the industry

Darryn - Head Trainer

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

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 Field Guide and Trails Guide qualifications. I am working towards Professional Field Guide and an SKS qualification.

Nick - Trainer

Originally from Rustenburg in the North West, I developed a love for nature from a young age. I began my guiding journey at Selati Game Reserve in 2009, which laid the foundation for my career in guiding. Since then, I’ve had the privilege of working at some incredible lodges across South Africa and Mozambique, including Phinda and Kwandwe Private Game Reserves, Fire Island and Eco Retreats, and Marataba. Today, I’m a trainer on the Bushwise 60-day course, where I enjoy being part of a passionate team and sharing my experience with the next generation of guides.

Trevor - Trainer

After completing my formal field guide training in 2003 I began my guiding career in the Waterberg region of South Africa. I have worked in reserves all over the country (even as an overland tour guide). I’m a Professional Field Guide, Professional Trails Guide, CATHSSETA Facilitator, Moderator and Assessor, Range Officer, ARH Assessor and Instructor and a Trails Guide Mentor. I currently work in a freelance capacity – providing assistance in the above-mentioned fields as well as managing Bushwise’s online portal.

Andrew - Trainer

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.

Andre - Trainer

I'm originally from Umkomaas, KwaZulu-Natal, and started my guiding career in the early 1990s as a whitewater rafting guide in Victoria Falls. Since then, I’ve worked as a river guide in the Lower Zambezi Valley and the Luiwa Plains of Western Zambia, and I’ve had the privilege of managing lodges and guiding in the Serengeti, Greater Kruger National Park, and Welgevonden Game Reserve. I hold a Zambian professional guide’s license, a Cathsseta NQF 4 with VPDA, a Master of Yachts skipper’s license from the Royal Yachting Association, and a diploma in higher education. I love surfing, fishing, and making the most of this incredible world.

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

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 Bushwise 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

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

I’ve been working as a housekeeper at Bushwise 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.

Esther - Housekeeping

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

I started working at the Bushwise 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!

Philip - Groundsman

Bushwise 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.

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

CATHSSETA registration
Bushwise exam and assessment fee
Training conducted by experienced long-term staff
Online masterclasses led by industry experts
Bushwise Trails Guide theory exam
Bushwise Trails Guide Assessment
Advanced Rifle Handling Training & Assessments
PFTC Training (Rifle Proficiency)
- Unit Standards 117705 - 119651 - 12351
- Private & Business

Activities

Game drives and classroom sessions
Overnight sleep-outs during the trails portion of the course
Guided safari walks during the trails portion of the course
Visits to nature reserves
Entrance fees for excursions
Assistance with booking other extracurricular activities

Living resources

Accommodation includes:
- Shared accommodation in safari-style tents
- Desk and cupboard
- Boma and braai area
- Space to exercise
- Social area
- Free Wi-Fi (limited)
- Library of field guiding books
- Communal or shared en-suite bathroom
- Limited laundry services
- All meals

Support services

Pre-departure support
Location orientation
24-hour in-country support
24-hour emergency phone
Emergency support from Bushwise on-site staff
Daily briefing
Final feedback session
Final day ceremony
Access to our alumni program

What’s not included?

The following services are not included in this program:

Flights
Transfers to the campus on arrival and departure
Medical and travel insurance
Personal workwear such as hiking shoes and jackets
Bushwise uniforms (optional and can be purchased after arrival)
Any other gear
International and domestic airport taxes
Additional drinks and gratuities
Compulsory and recommended reference books
Transport costs to the work placement
Extra local excursions

Welcome to your wild home

Our Selati campus, located within the Selati Game Reserve, becomes your home for three months in the heart of the bushveld. About 50 kilometres from Hoedspruit, this unfenced, solar-powered camp is surrounded by wild beauty, with hyenas whooping in the distance, jackals calling at night, owls overhead, and even the occasional roar of a lion.

You’ll stay in shared safari-style tents with views over the Selati River. Each tent has two single beds, bedside tables, and storage space. Bathrooms are communal, with gas-heated showers and flushing toilets, and there’s a fully equipped kitchen where all meals are prepared.

There’s also a classroom overlooking the riverbed, an outdoor dining area, and a firepit where the day usually ends — under the stars, swapping stories. The camp is eco-conscious and fully solar-powered, but still comfortable and designed for learning in the bush.

Selati Game Reserve itself is nearly 28,000 hectares of pristine wilderness, home to elephants, rhinos, sable antelope, lions, cheetahs, and some of the most unique plant species in South Africa — including the critically endangered cycad Encephalartos dyerianus. It’s a place that doesn’t just teach you about wildlife. It surrounds you with it.

Gallery

Explore campus

Accommodation

Accommodation is shared in comfortable safari-style tents, each with real beds, fresh linens, and views into the bush.

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 use 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 Selati campus is unfenced, offering a truly immersive wilderness experience. While this means you may spot wildlife right from your tent, safety is always a priority. The camp is monitored by our experienced team, with staff on-site 24/7 and rapid access to emergency services nearby, so you’re always in good hands.

Career-boosting qualifications and certificates

This three-month course gives you the essential qualifications and practical experience to start your guiding journey in South Africa. You’ll earn your CATHSSETA Nature Site Guide (NQF2) qualification, the main credential required to guide legally, along with other nationally recognised certificates:

Field guide qualifications

CATHSSETA Nature Site Guide (NQF2)
CATHSSETA Nature Site Guide (NQF4) knowledge
Basic Wilderness First Aid – US ID: 119567
Cybertracker Track and Sign assessment

In-house and practical certificates

Bushwise Safari Guide course certificate
Reptile orientation course
Dangerous game experience

Trails guide qualifications and experience

During the 27-day trails guide portion, you’ll gain practical skills and log hours towards your Foundational Trails Guide certificate. This includes:

Firearm Proficiency (PFTC)
Bushwise Advanced Rifle Handling
Walking hours (80 hours)
20 rifled encounters (at least one encounter with each of Elephant, Buffalo, Rhino, Lion/Leopard). Wildlife encounters cannot be guaranteed.
Bushwise Trails Guide theoretical exam
Minimum of one assessment walk

The quantity of all practical experiences and activities depends on external factors: weather, wildlife density, and safety. These cannot be guaranteed.