Author: Bushwise trainer

Animal tracks and tracking

This blog about tracking animals was written by Francois Theron. With years of guiding experience, Francois shares his knowledge on tracks and tracking in the bush. There are hundreds of species of endangered animals living across Africa, and tracking wildlife and monitoring endangered species are essential to their conservation. Tracking animals is like learning to...

What I enjoy most about being a field guide trainer

What is it like to be a Bushwise trainer? In this blog Wayne Lubbe shares his experience with teaching and learning from aspiring field guides. 3 min read We’re always learning There are many challenges that come with being in charge of future field guides’ training. One thing I find challenging, but also extremely satisfying,...

On the trail: wildlife sightings on foot

This blog was written by Francois Theron, Header Trainer at our SAWC Campus near the Kruger National Park. Francois is especially passionate about animal track and sign, and trailing wildlife on foot. Let’s learn more from his expertise! 3 min read Track & sign and trailing: what’s it all about? On each Bushwise course, our...

Bushwise big birding week

This blog is by Darryn Murray, Bushwise Trainer, who among his many qualifications holds SKS (specialised knowledge and skills) in birding.  3 min read Over the past week, the Bushwise trainers and students have been embroiled in an epic birding challenge.  Eight students and a trainer were paired up to see how many birds they...

Meet Pioneer Moyo

Steeped in bush knowledge, with an incredible ability to interpret his surroundings and transfer information to students. Meet Pioneer Moyo – Bushwise trainer and Safari Guide of the Year 2023 Top 5 finalist. 2 min read From Zimbabwe to Bushwise Pioneer Moyo (aka Pines) is originally from Zimbabwe. He is a qualified trainer and assessor with...

Unusual questions people ask on safari

This blog was written by Wayne Lubbe, Bushwise trainer at our Mahlahla campus, who has had his fair share of surprising questions from safari guests! 3 min read As a field guide you have the privilege of waking up to new adventures and the beautiful African sunrise every morning. You also spend time with guests...

Anthropomorphism and the safari experience

In this blog, Bushwise award-winning trainer Nico Brits discusses anthropomorphism (the act of attributing human qualities to animals) on the African safari. Does it have a place in guiding? Let’s see what Nico has to say about it… 3 min read As a guide and trainer, anthropomorphism is something that I must deal with more...

Gratitude versus gratuity

In this blog, Bushwise Trainer Darryn Murray discusses gratitude versus gratuity. This delicate question is one that often arises with new field guide trainees. As Darryn describes, it’s essential that we as guides are just as appreciative of earnest gratitude, as we are of generous gratuity.  Read time: 5 mins How do you measure gratitude...

Training in the bush

If you want to become an ultimate field guide, then you need some training in the bush! Read time: 5 min Francois Theron is the head trainer at Bushwise’s campus in the Greater Kruger National Park, where we train field guide students alongside the Southern African Wildlife College. Back in 2004 when Francois trained to...