Job Summary
Trails Guide - 5-Star Private Game Lodge - Madikwe Game Reserve, North West Kendrick Recruitment is searching for a passionate, professional and highly qualified Trails Guide for a well-regarded 5-star luxury private game lodge set within the malaria-free Big Five Madikwe Game Reserve, North West Province. This is a full-time, live-in position for a guest-focused guide who thrives as part of a close-knit team and takes genuine pride in delivering exceptional, personalised safari experiences. The role combines morning and afternoon game drives with guided bush walks, full guest hosting duties and a genuinely rewarding package for the right candidate. Start Date: ASAP Non-Negotiable Qualifications: FGASA Trails Guide (NQF2 minimum, NQF4 preferred) with VPDA - essential FGASA Advanced Rifle Handling (ARH) - essential FGASA Nature Site Guide (NQF4) - essential Valid PrDP - essential First Aid certificate (Wilderness First Aid preferred) - essential SAPS Firearm Competency - essential SASSETA accreditation (117705 / 119651 / 123519) or valid licence to possess a firearm - essential CATHSETA certification - essential Department of Tourism (DEDECT) registration for Madikwe Game Reserve - essential (or willingness to obtain on commencement) Minimum 3 years' guiding experience in a Big Five environment - essential Additional Qualifications (Advantageous): FGASA Advanced Astronomy FGASA Biome Guide FGASA Bird Guide FGASA Guiding Butterflies and Moths CyberTracker Track & Sign / Tracker / Trailing Key Responsibilities: Present at the main lodge 30 minutes before the guest wake-up call to prepare morning coffee Host guests during morning coffee and conduct morning game drives in accordance with NWPTB regulations Conduct afternoon game drives in accordance with NWPTB regulations and Code of Conduct Host guests at high tea prior to afternoon game drives Conduct guided bush walks in accordance with NWPTB regulations Meet and greet guests on arrival, assist with luggage and vehicle parking Farewell guests on departure and assist with luggage and vehicle retrieval Communicate guest ETAs and field updates via Parks Board radio channel Communicate dietary requirements to the kitchen ahead of game drive snacks Ensure all vehicles, rifles and equipment are maintained, clean and in good working order at all times Conduct airstrip clearing, pick-ups and drop-offs following Federal Air protocol Remove unwanted wildlife (snakes, critters) from guest rooms and public areas when required Conduct children's safari activities for guests under 10 years of age Assist the maintenance team during periods without guest activities Maintain accurate and ethical communication on relevant WhatsApp groups Package: Competitive salary based on FGASA qualifications and experience Commission: Additional R300 per guided bush walk with guests Live-in: Accommodation, meals and uniform provided Medical Aid contribution (commences after 3rd month of employment) Rotation: 36 days on / 12 days off Leave: 21 floating days per year (subject to operational requirements) 16 lodge bednights per year for friends or family Reasonably unlimited staff village bednights for friends or family 2 complimentary bednights at any collection property for yourself and one guest Gym access, free WiFi, staff discounts on drinks and curio items Staff discount on flights between Johannesburg and Madikwe Opportunity to join game drives as a passenger when space is available Should you feel you are the right fit for this role, please apply with your updated CV, copies of relevant qualifications and certifications, contactable references and a recent head & shoulders photo ASAP! ? Please Note: If you do not receive feedback within 7 working days, kindly consider your application unsuccessful.