Job Summary
Head Guide - Luxury Safari Lodge - Sabi Sand, Greater Kruger Kendrick Recruitment is searching for an inspiring and experienced Head Guide for a well-loved, privately owned luxury safari lodge in the northern Sabi Sand Game Reserve - one of Africa's most celebrated wildlife destinations, set along a busy waterhole on the unfenced boundary of the Kruger National Park. This is far more than a guiding position. The Head Guide will lead the entire guiding department, shape the safari culture of the lodge and play a meaningful role in the development, mentorship and growth of every guide and tracker on the team. We are looking for someone who leads by example, communicates with confidence and takes genuine pride in every guest experience. A note from the lodge: While qualifications and experience are important, character, leadership potential, attitude and long-term commitment are valued equally. The right candidate will be rewarded with a package that reflects what they bring - not just what they currently earn. Candidates who feel they are the right fit are encouraged to apply regardless of current salary level. Minimum Requirements: FGASA NQF4 (Level 2) - essential Full Lead Trails Guide qualification - essential Advanced Rifle Handling (ARH) - essential Valid SAPS Firearm Competency - essential SASSETA registration - essential Valid First Aid certificate - essential Valid PrDP - essential NDT registration - essential Proven experience in a Senior Guide or Head Guide role within a luxury safari lodge - essential Strong knowledge of the Sabi Sand ecosystem advantageous Excellent communication, leadership and guest engagement skills Ability to train, mentor and inspire guides and trackers Strong understanding of luxury hospitality standards Wildlife photography and videography experience advantageous Experience contributing to lodge marketing, social media or content creation advantageous Stable work history with outstanding, contactable references Key Responsibilities: ? Safari Leadership & Guest Experience Lead by example through exceptional guiding standards, professionalism and guest engagement Deliver world-class interpretive safari experiences across game drives and walking safaris Maintain the highest standards of safety, operational discipline and continuous improvement Drive a consistent, exceptional guest experience across the entire guiding department ? Guide & Tracker Development Design and implement structured training programmes for guides and trackers Mentor guides through both practical in-field and theoretical development Conduct regular assessments, coaching sessions and performance reviews Foster a culture of learning, accountability and teamwork ? Conservation & Wildlife Promote ethical wildlife viewing practices across the guiding team Ensure accurate wildlife record keeping where required Foster respect for traverse partners and conservation principles ⚙️ Operational Management Manage daily guide and tracker allocations Oversee vehicle standards, maintenance and equipment readiness Maintain departmental SOPs, coordinate with neighbouring lodges and assist with budgeting ? Digital Storytelling & Content Encourage guides and trackers to contribute wildlife stories, sightings and photography Coordinate content collection for the lodge's marketing team Help develop educational content that reflects the lodge's conservation ethos Promote authentic storytelling as part of the lodge's digital presence Package: Competitive salary negotiable based on experience and suitability Live-in: Accommodation and meals provided Uniform provided Rotation: 6 weeks on / 2 weeks off Should you feel you are the right fit for this role, please apply with your updated CV, copies of all qualifications and certifications, contactable references and a recent head and shoulders photo ASAP! ? Please Note: If you do not receive feedback within 7 working days, kindly consider your application unsuccessful.