Head Guide

SUMMARY:
Big Five private reserve in KwaZulu-Natal is seeking an experienced and driven HEAD GUIDE to lead its guiding department.

POSITION INFO:
This is a senior guiding role within a large-scale luxury tented safari operation; the successful candidate will combine hands-on guiding excellence with genuine leadership, mentoring a team of guides while upholding five-star standards across every guest interaction. Core Criteria: Minimum 5 years' guiding experience within a luxury safari lodge; previous supervisory or Head Guide experience preferred FGASA Level 2 qualification plus Full Trails Valid First Aid Certificate Valid South African Driver's Licence and Professional Driving Permit (PrDP) Valid Rifle Competency (where required) and DEAT\/NDT registration (where applicable) Experience hosting international luxury guests Strong working knowledge of Southern African wildlife, ecology, animal behaviour, birding, and flora and fauna Sound understanding of conservation principles and reserve operating procedures Proven leadership, coaching, and team development ability Excellent guest relations skills and a genuine commitment to luxury hospitality standards Core Responsibilities: Lead daily game drives, bush walks, and other safari activities, ensuring safety and professionalism throughout Deliver engaging, informed wildlife interpretation tailored to guest interests Plan game drive routes according to wildlife movement, weather, and operational risk Welcome guests personally and introduce the safari programme Handle guest concerns and requests with efficiency and warmth Mentor, coach, and develop the wider guiding team, including rostering and performance reviews Support recruitment and onboarding of new guides Record and monitor wildlife sightings and animal behaviour Report poaching activity, injured animals, fence damage, and other conservation concerns Oversee the condition and maintenance of safari vehicles and guiding equipment Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and legislative requirements, including regular safety briefings Complete daily safari reports, vehicle logbooks, and training records