Walk
on the wilder side
IFGA
Trails Guide Course - 27 days
Begin your journey to becoming a qualified Trails Guide. Learn how to lead walking safaris in a Big Five environment.
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Experience the wild on foot
Learn how to confidently and responsibly lead walking safaris among South Africa’s most iconic wildlife.
Our 27-day IFGA Trails Guide Course is perfect for anyone looking to become a Foundational or Advanced Trails Guide to lead walking safaris, or for those who simply want to experience the thrill of exploring Africa’s stunning landscapes on foot.
Your days on the course are spent out in the bush, learning to confidently and responsibly guide walking experiences among South Africa’s iconic wildlife. You’ll be surrounded by like-minded trailblazers who share your passion for wildlife, logging hours on foot in Big Five territory and enjoying unforgettable wildlife encounters along the way.
The course helps you gain the practical experience and walking hours needed to become a Foundational or Advanced Trails Guide, depending on your starting point. Even after the course ends, you remain connected to the Bushwise team, network, and recruitment division, giving you support as you take the next step in your wildlife career.
How do Trails Guide qualifications work?
To become an Advanced Trails Guide, you’ll first need to complete the CATHSSETA NQF2 Nature Site Guide qualification and meet the basic requirements. This is done during one of our in-person courses. Then, gain experience as a Foundational Trails Guide (Second Rifle) by logging hours and encountering wildlife during the Bushwise Trails Guide Course. After passing the final assessment, you’ll be certified to act as a Foundational Trails Guide during walking safaris alongside an Advanced Trails Guide (First Rifle).
Next, log the required hours and wildlife encounters as a First Rifle. You can do this by returning to the Bushwise Trails Guide Course or at your workplace, where an Advanced Trails Guide will verify your progress. Once you’ve met the experience requirements, you can apply for an assessment to become an Advanced Trails Guide (First Rifle) and lead walking safaris independently.
Fund your Bushwise course!
- Discounts of up to R50000.
- Grants & scholarships of up to R100000.
- Student loans available.
