From First Sightings to First Game Drives: My Bushwise Journey
This blog was written by Sabra al-Qatil, a Bushwise Practical Wildlife Tourism Course 6/12 month student. Each student takes a turn as camp manager, and writing a blog is part of the experience.
When I arrived at Bushwise in South Africa, I knew I was about to start an exciting new chapter in my life. I have always loved South Africa, its wildlife and the feeling of being surrounded by nature. Choosing to do a Wildlife Tourism course at Bushwise felt like the right step for me, but I also knew that I had a lot to learn. Looking back at the past few months, I can honestly say that this journey has already been full of unforgettable experiences, challenges and new friendships.
From the beginning, there has been something new to learn almost every day. Our training combines classroom lessons with practical experience in the bush, which makes it both exciting and challenging. We have covered a wide range of subjects, including first aid, hospitality, photography, wildlife, and practical guiding skills. I have learned how to change a tyre using a high-lift jack, how to handle different situations in the field, and how to drive a game viewer. Every new skill gives me a little more confidence and reminds me how much there is to learn.
Of course, one of the biggest highlights has been the wildlife. During our game drives, we have been fortunate enough to see so many incredible animals. Seeing wild dogs feeding on their prey and watching vultures arrive to clean up afterwards was a fascinating reminder of how everything in nature is connected. We have also seen elephants at close range, a rhino with her calf, lions resting in the bush and cheetahs walking along the road. One sighting I will never forget was finally seeing a leopard. I had been hoping to see one for so long, and when it finally happened, I was absolutely thrilled. It also meant that I had seen all of the Big Five!
However, Bushwise is about much more than seeing amazing animals. It is also about learning how to share that experience with others. One of my favourite milestones so far was guiding my first game drive. I was excited, but naturally a little nervous too. Afterwards, I received positive feedback from my trainer and fellow students. They told me that I had stayed calm and relaxed, almost as if I had been doing it for years. That gave me a real confidence boost. I know that I still need to build my knowledge, but I am learning that becoming a good guide takes time, practice and a willingness to keep improving.
Not every part of the journey has been easy. The amount of information we need to remember is a lot! We study mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, insects and trees, alongside many other subjects. There are plenty of tests and practical assessments, so there is always something to revise. Learning to identify birds, in particular, has been quite a challenge! During our birding week, we identified 174 different bird species. It was an amazing experience, but it also made me realise just how much knowledge a guide needs. Sometimes I wonder how I am going to remember it all, but then I remind myself that I do not need to know everything overnight.
What makes the experience even more special is the people. I have met a wonderful group of fellow students, and we have shared plenty of laughs, early mornings, long study sessions and exciting sightings. Our trainers have also played an important role in our journey, sharing their knowledge and helping us improve. Passing our exams together and celebrating as a group have been some of the happiest moments so far. These friendships and shared experiences have made Bushwise feel like much more than just a place to study.
Looking back, I am proud of how far I have come. I have learned new skills, gained confidence in my guiding abilities and discovered just how much dedication this profession requires. There are still challenges ahead, and I know that the next stages of my training will continue to test me. But that is part of the adventure.
I am grateful that I took this step and gave myself the opportunity to learn, grow and follow my passion for wildlife. Every game drive brings something different, every lesson teaches me something new, and every experience helps me become a little more confident.
My journey with Bushwise is far from over, and I am excited to see what the next chapters will bring. One thing is certain: I have already made memories that I will carry with me for the rest of my life.
