Where

the wild

becomes knowledge

Course details

The foundation for a wild career

Is your goal to become a safari guide, wilderness guide, wildlife guide or conservationist? The Bushwise Professional Field Guide course is the most comprehensive and immersive course available. Train with the industry’s award-winning instructors and wildlife experts, using the International Field Guide Association (IFGA) curriculum.

Course overview

Imagine driving a 4x4 game viewer across a riverbed, pointing out rare bird species to your guests. You slow to a stop – is that a leopard you see? Later, you serve sundowners and take in another vibrant African sunset. An afternoon spent sharing wildlife knowledge, nothing’s better!

The Bushwise Professional Field Guide (PFG) course develops highly skilled professionals in the field guiding industry. It is specifically developed to provide vocational skills and qualifications required by employers in Southern Africa. In addition, our top-performing students can also qualify for the IFGA qualification at no extra cost to their training.

Training is held in Big Five territory, where you’ll observe animals in their natural habitat. Days are spent studying, going on game drives, observing wildlife, learning new skills and putting knowledge into practice. Train with expert and award-winning instructors as you learn wildlife theory, hospitality, storytelling, conservation, lodge management, animal behaviour and much more.

Students also have the opportunity to do a 6-month work placement with a selection of lodges and game reserves in South Africa: Thornybush, Timbavati, Makalali Private Game Reserve and Kapama to name a few; or further abroad in destinations like Thailand, Madagascar and Costa Rica. Our graduates have worked around the world, in places like Patagonia, USA, Malawi, Zambia, Tanzania, Mozambique, Namibia and Rwanda. By getting experience in a luxury game lodge, animal rehab centre or at a wildlife research and monitoring centre, you can secure a permanent position as a safari guide, reserve management or conservationist around the globe.

Why study with Bushwise?

Bushwise Field Guides was founded by a passionate conservationist. After her long and fruitful career in conservation, she realised there is a need for professional field guides to help ethically sustain our natural environment. This passion gave birth to Bushwise in 2006, and since then, we’ve delivered the cream of the crop to the safari industry. It’s our passion, respect and dedication to nature that drives us to keep on improving our courses.

92% of lodges prefer Bushwise grads

When lodges see the Bushwise and IFGA name, they know you’ve received the top-tier field guiding education. In fact, lodges regularly request Bushwise grads for open positions. That’s because we understand what employers are looking for, and prepare you in the best way possible to enter the industry. We also work closely with key players in the wildlife sector to align our curriculum with the latest industry requirements.

No.1 rated on TrustPilot

Our courses consistently rank highest on multiple review platforms, from No.1 on TrustPilot to our top ratings on Google, Facebook, GoAbroad, and GoOverseas. We produce the best field guides entering the industry, and lodges regularly contact us to request alumni for their job openings.

Exclusive IFGA training provider

We are the sole Southern African training provider for the International Field Guide Association (IFGA) qualification. When a wildlife guide has the letters IFGA after their name, it means they were successfully admitted to and passed the most selective field guide training program in the world. They are are prepared to exceed guest expectations, every step of the way.

Global opportunities

Through the IFGA curriculum, there are also unique work placement opportunities in remote destinations like Costa Rica, Thailand, Madagascar and more. Bushwise students use their training to advance their careers, all over the world. Our graduates have gotten jobs in places like Patagonia, USA, Malawi, Zambia, Tanzania, Mozambique, Namibia and Rwanda.

Award winning trainers

The Bushwise team includes award-winning staff, including Pioneer Moyo and Nico Brits, category winners from the Safari Guide of the Year competition 2022 and 2023. Our trainers are experts in their field, and are constantly gaining experience and knowledge themselves. We are a specialised and committed team, with nearly a century of experience combined. We have experts in entomology, ornithology, conservation, rifle handling, botany and more.

Career guarantee

Bushwise offers an exclusive career guarantee – the only in the industry. We are so confident in our training programs that we guarantee to South African students of our 12 month course that they will receive a job offer within 6 months of graduating.

100% Employment rate

Since 2012, Bushwise has seen a 100% employment rate for South African graduates of our Professional Field Guide course (not including COVID-19 period when many companies had hiring freezes). This is due to the fact that our graduates are well-prepared for the job market, with skills and experience that goes beyond the books and beyond expectations.

Recruitment services

We offer comprehensive career counselling and recruitment services to all of our students, helping them reach their dream career and excel in their goals. This includes access to a vast alumni network, job posts and notifications, personalised job-search assistance, connections with hiring managers, and much more.

Support at every step

Feel safe and supported throughout your time with us. Safety and first aid training are a priority that we take seriously. Bushwise’s practical courses are unique due to the amount of learning support we give students. When you need extra guidance on a topic, our trainers will be there to give you the support you need.

What’s a typical day?

Typically your day will start between 5:30am and 6am. Daily activities will vary between classroom-based learning and practical sessions. We aim to give a balance of theory and practical training during each day, but we do allow for program requirements, seasonal changes and students’ needs. The balance between these two will differ module to module.

Life on this Bushwise course

Out here with Bushwise, we replicate what life is like as a real field guide. That means early wake up calls (oh yes!) with coffee or tea, long rewarding days in the bush, meals by the campfire, leadership responsibilities, camp duties and more.

An average day could look like this, with slight variations based on season:

5-5:30am

Wakeup call - time to make coffee and tea and grab a light breakfast.

6-10am

Morning activity, whether a game drive, bush walk, lecture, or group activity.

11am

Brunch at camp. Usually a hearty meal from eggs and french toast to fried chicken and potatoes.

Midday

Time to relax or study. Students may exercise (there are trails around camp), take a nap, or prepare for the next lesson.

3pm

Head out for another activity.

6pm

Evening meal, whether dished up in the dining area or a communal braai around the campfire.

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Dates & fees

Program fees (incl VAT)

2024

23 weeks – £ 11,195
50 weeks* – £ 12,295

2025

23 weeks – £ 11,195

50 weeks* – £ 12,295

Start dates

23 weeks – 8 July

50 weeks* – 8 July

*Our flagship program is the best value for money and includes an employment guarantee and free recruitment services. Each month, we offer scholarships of up to £3,850 off our Professional Field Guide course. Ask us about our current offer!

Payment plans

Plan 1

A £1155 deposit secures your booking
First instalment due 20 weeks before the course start date
Final instalment due 12 weeks before the course start date

Plan 2

30% of the full amount is deposited to secure your booking
The balance is split into six instalments leading up to the course start date

Plan 3

30% of the full amount is deposited to secure your booking
The balance is split into equal installments with the final installment due 1 month before your course ends

To add to your qualifications and skills, Bushwise Field Guides includes extra modules and brings in external professionals to help with specialist skills. As a result, Bushwise is not able to offer full scholarships to our courses. Bushwise is recognised by most major South African banks including FNB and Standard Bank. South African citizens can apply in-branch for student loans to assist with payment of course fees.

Curriculum

The Bushwise Professional Field Guide course begins with 6 months of training and theory lessons with our expert trainers.

The core period of your training is broken up into 4-week long training segments, with a week off in between for some down time, self-study and reflection. Lessons alternate between classroom-based lectures, self and group study sessions, practicals in the field, guest instructors and intensive modules (for example, Track & Sign).

A typical week will include twice daily game drives, bush walks, practical experiences, lectures and self or group study periods. Each week you will be tested on that weeks’ modules, before moving on to the next one. This ensures that you’re well prepared for more formal, periodic exams.

To prepare ahead of time for the course, you are given free access to our comprehensive online Bushwise Field Guiding course before you arrive. This is a great way to get started with the theory and knowledge portion of your training. It’s also a wonderful way to meet other students before arriving on campus.

Bushwise is also the exclusive training provider of the International Field Guide Association (IFGA) training program. This top-tier education will prepare select students to become a world-class wildlife or wilderness guide, ready to work in any environment across the globe. IFGA students launch their career on one of our international work placements, such as Costa Rica, Namibia, Thailand, or Fiji. This comes at no additional cost to qualified candidates.

Topics include:

Guiding and hospitality

To be a successful guide, you must understand the nuances of hospitality, hosting guests, planning guided experiences, and tourism principles. Learn the soft skills you’ll need to provide your guests with the best experience possible.

Flora and fauna identification

From the tiniest insect to the mighty elephant, from ferns to trees, learn what makes different species of flora (plants) and fauna (animals) unique. Gain an appreciation for and understanding of biodiversity and the role each species plays in an ecosystem.

Animal behaviour

Why does a lion roar? How do impala communicate? What is that elephant doing when it flaps its ears? Ethology, or animal behaviour, allows us to better understand why animals do the things they do. Become an effective storyteller for your guests, interpreting what you see in real time.

Viewing potentially dangerous game

In our industry it’s essential to recognise warning signs from potentially dangerous game, and know how to react appropriately and safely to protect your guests, the animal and yourself. You’ll be trained to act with respect and strong guiding ethics around dangerous game.

Vehicle skills & 4x4 driving

Vehicle-based game drives are central to field guiding. we train you on vehicle mechanics and safety, including correct 4x4 and off-road driving skills. This requires a manual license and experience. Our over-21s will need to secure their PrDp in order to drive guests.

Advanced rifle handling

Learn how to use a rifle safely and competently, but must importantly, only as a last resort. Rifle handling forms part of your training to become a trails guide, and includes rifle and ammunition theory and handling. Successful students will earn a SASSETA certificate.

Track & sign and trailing

There’s nothing quite like reading the “bush newspaper” - looking at animal tracks on the ground and understanding the story behind them. Identify different tracks and signs, follow the footprints of animals, and learn how to interpret the messages they leave behind.

Additional modules

Our curriculum is aligned with IFGA, CATHSSETA, SASSETA, CyberTracker and other institutions. Modules include additional subjects like wilderness first aid, reptile handling, survival and navigation, conservation management, habitat rehabilitation, and more.

International Field Guide Association training

Select high-performing students from the PFG course can qualify to train as an IFGA guide. Bushwise is the exclusive training provider in Southern Africa with this curriculum, allowing you to stand out even further from the competition and excel in your career.

Bushwise work placements

After you’ve completed 6 months of immersive training, add a 6-month work placement to your experience. This will give you a huge boost in your career as you see what life is really like as a field guide, lodge manager, researcher, or conservationist.

How does it work?

While you are learning to become a guide, the Bushwise head trainer and support staff are constantly assessing you to see what kind of placement opportunity would best fit your skills, performance, personality, interests and aspirations. That’s why we have a 100% employment success rate for our South African graduates. With our extensive network of lodges, reserves and wildlife organisations, we’re able to make excellent matches for qualified students. For our IFGA students this even includes international placements!

The work placement allows Bushwise students to gain valuable ‘hands-on’ experience and cement the knowledge and skills learnt during the course. It also offers you a chance to grow your professional network and get your foot in the door for the start of your career.

Types of work placements

Many students do their work placement in guiding at a luxury 3 to 5 star game lodge. This includes exposure to working and guiding on a big five reserve with dangerous game such as lions, rhinos, elephants and hippo. Field guides interact with tourists visiting the private game reserves, and focus on sharing knowledge about nature and the environment. These guiding experiences are either conducted in a safari vehicle or on foot. Field guides act as interpreters between the environment and the guests, with the ultimate intention of promoting conservation and environmental protection.

There are also a limited number of other wildlife conservation work placements available. These include wildlife research and monitoring, anti-poaching, ecotourism lodge management, animal rehabilitation and environmental education, wildlife conservation volunteer management and wildlife breeding, and reserve management.

Graduates aged 18-20 can go on placement but will not be able to guide in a vehicle until they are 21 years old, when they can legally apply for a professional driving permit (PrDp). Some examples of placement locations for under 21s include walking safaris with Africa On Foot, horseback guiding with Ants Nest, or conservation research with Moholoholo or Siyafunda.

For our IFGA participants, opportunities also exist to be placed throughout Africa and across the globe, like the Costa Rican rainforest, Thailand’s mountainous jungles, Namibia’s vast deserts, and more. Here you will gain further specialised training and work experience to boost your career development.

Placement partners

Africa on Foot

Africa on Foot conducts walking safaris in the Klaserie Private Nature Reserve, a Big Five game reserve within the Greater Kruger. Guests stay in one of five chalets, participating in guided walks or game drives in the morning and afternoon.

Thanda Safari

Thanda Safari is a private luxury game reserve in South Africa’s Kwa-Zulu Natal province, with three unique camps – from tented to villa. Thanda Safari offers Big Five experiences including game drives, conservation activities, and guided walks.

Greenfire Game Lodge

Located within the 50,000 hectare Balule Nature Reserve, Greenfire Game Lodge is open to the Greater Kruger landscape and Big Five are regularly on their doorstep. Greenfire Lodges are committed to conservation and enhancing the overall guest experience.

Siyafunda (Makalali)

Established in 2004 to assist the Greater Makalali Game Reserve with wildlife monitoring, Siyafunda is a research, volunteer, and wildlife monitoring organisation. Their mission is to further knowledge and awareness by hosting researchers and supporting local communities.

Kapama River Lodge

Kapama is a network of four luxury lodges within 15,000 hectares of pristine bushveld in the Greater Kruger. Each camp is different from the next, but all offer world-class guided game drives and nature walks in Big Five territory.

Sibuya Game Reserve

Sibuya Game Reserve is a 4-star luxury tented camp and lodge located in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa, just over an hour from Port Elizabeth and East London. It’s location near the ocean makes it highly unique, with over 400 bird species, Big Five, and diverse flora and fauna.

Free time

With South Africa’s Lowveld landscape as your home base, you’ll be just a short drive away from incredible wildlife parks, world-renowned conservation areas and iconic destinations. Spend your free weeks exploring all South Africa has to offer – from a weekend in Kruger National Park to a week in Cape Town!

Weekend and day trips

Blyde River Canyon

The largest green canyon in the world (with lush vegetation and deep cliffs), and the third largest next to Fish River Canyon and the Grand Canyon. The Blyde River Canyon is only 30 minutes from Hoedspruit and is a destination for camping, hiking, bird watching and boat tours.

Kruger National Park

At over 2 million hectares, Kruger is a massive protected area including the iconic Big Five, wild dogs, cheetahs, endangered species, and so much more. Tourist roads span the length and width of this incredible landscape, which is just a 10 minute drive from our SAWC campus.

Panorama Route

This scenic driving route takes you along the northern Drakensberg escarpment, featuring viewpoints, waterfalls, hikes, and cultural interest points. Attractions include God’s Window, the Three Rondavels, Bourke’s Luck Potholes, and Graskop gorge.

Mariepskop Nature Reserve

A lush mountain ecosystem, with unique biodiversity including rare and endemic bird species. Mariepskop towers in the distance past Hoedspruit, and is visible from both Bushwise campuses. This reserve is excellent for hiking, bird watching and forest exploring.

Hoedspruit Town

South Africa’s safari town, Hoedspruit, is just an hour from both Bushwise campuses. Here you’ll have access to all essentials and more, including a local brewery, restaurants, shops, grocery stores and medical facilities. A great place to meet people and see local life.

Neighbouring game reserves

Limpopo and Mpumalanga are home to many of South Africa’s top public and private game reserves. You can plan a day trip to some of them, including game drives and meals, or treat yourself to a weekend away at a lodge.

Further afield

Drakensberg Mountains

This 200km long mountain range across South Africa and Lesotho is by far the region’s most impressive, with tumbling cliffs, rising peaks, crashing waterfalls and rolling valleys. Explore its hundreds of kilometres of hiking trails or go rock climbing or kloofing.

Cape Town

Head to the Mother City and visit Robben Island, Table Mountain, the District 6 Museum and Boulders Beach. A short flight from Johannesburg or Hoedspruit, it’s well worth spending some time in Cape Town during an off week or just after your course.

Durban

Located on South Africa’s east coast, Durban is a warm beach-front destination city. Surfing, diving, paddling and swimming are popular activities here. Enjoy the unique dune landscapes and coastal forests. Grab a bunny chow or ice cream cone and walk the promenade.

Johannesburg

South Africa’s biggest city, Johannesburg, is roughly a five-hour drive from campus. While many people use Joburg as a stopover city, it’s well worth a visit on its own. Absorb history and culture at the city’s many museums (like the Apartheid Museum) or on a walking tour.

Reviews

Hear directly from Bushwise alumni. Our reviews are posted here and also shared across other platforms, like TrustPilot, Google, Facebook, Go Overseas and GoAbroad.

Testimonial 60 Day Safari Guide - Antoinette Human

Charlotte Nicolson, May 2023

My heart hurts to leave, I’d do it all over again in a heartbeat if I could. The trainers are awesome! Every single one as well as the rest of the staff on the ground. The course was fantastic although it was tough at the time. If you’re planning on doing this course I would suggest you put your head down and give it your all. 6 months go by quickly so put your heart and soul into it. It will be the best thing you have ever done.

Ben Mertens, May 2023

Looking back on this course I have to say that this course has exceeded my expectations by far. Sure there has been some turbulent times where we had to study and put our head in our books but this has made me and the other students gel together. What was great about this was that we individuals were put together as strangers into the bush and came back with lifelong friends with a vast amount of knowledge.

Saki Miyata, July 2022

I couldn't find any school or college like Bushwise in Japan. This is the best way to reach my dream. My 1st language is not English. Even if you are worrying about language, I highly recommend that you apply for the Bushwise course. Because this 6 months will change your life. Always Bushwise staffs, trainers and friends encouraged me. I appreciate their kindness. If you love wild life in Africa, you must come here!

Geena Wegner, January 2021

With all honesty, my 6 months at Bushwise has been the happiest time of my life. Regardless of the incredible structure of the course which teaches you all the basics that you need to know to enter the field guide industry, my trainers and fellow students are what made the course so special. Having people from all over the world come together, creates an extremely unique environment: just do it!

Brendan Davies, June 2021

My time with Bushwise was incredible. They have provided me with a rock-solid understanding of the environment and the guiding industry, while simultaneously sparking an intense passion and curiosity in everything that our planet contains. I will always be grateful to Bushwise for what they have done for me as a student and future guide.

Christopher Magee, June 2020

I must say I really enjoyed the course,and from the start of the course I knew nothing, now nearing the end I know more than I could have ever imagined.It definitely was a hard course considering what I came from of just being lazy with my work to giving it my all to learn as much as I can to pass with a 75 % and above to show my qualifications. I must thank Bushwise for allowing me this opportunity to grow.

Keira Massiah, January 2018

My experience with Bushwise has truly been one of the best things I've done. I have left my comfort zone as someone who has never been to SA before and pushed myself to do things I didn’t know I was capable of. Everyday has been enjoyable and the bush is truly magical. It has been challenging and also so rewarding. I am very happy with my decision to do Bushwise.

Katie Munro, January 2017

My experience at Bushwise has been incredible, more amazing than I could ever have imagined. Almost every day I think to myself how lucky I am to be here. The trainers are enthusiastic, passionate and it was inspiring to learn from them.

Meet the team

With nearly a century of experience combined, we are a specialised team with experts in entomology, ornithology, conservation, rifle handling, botany and more. Join us and work with award-winning staff, including Pioneer Moyo and Nico Brits, category winners from the Safari Guide of the Year competition 2022 and 2023. Get to know these amazing individuals:

Best trainers in the industry

Darryn - Head Trainer, Mahlahla

My passion for the bush came from my parents, spending many holidays all over South Africa in various game reserves or on birding trips. I completed my training course in 2012 and began my career in the Waterberg region of South Africa. I have since gone on to work in several reserves around South Africa including Entabeni, Madikwe, Klaserie and Greater Kruger National Park. My qualifications include Professional Field Guide, Professional Trails Guide and SKS Birding. I’m currently working towards mentor status.

Watch Darryn's video

Wayne - Head Trainer, SAWC

As a child growing up in Johannesburg, I always knew that I would be doing something nature-related when I grew up. I completed my training course in 2012 and began my career in the Lowveld close to Hoedspruit. I have worked in reserves around South Africa including Kapama, Madikwe and Greater Kruger National Park. I currently hold FGASA Field Guide and Trails Guide qualifications. I am working towards Professional Field Guide and an SKS qualification.

Watch Wayne's video

Pioneer - Trainer, 60-day Safari Guide Course

My passion for nature comes from my childhood growing up in the remote Nkayi region of Zimbabwe. I would tend the family’s cattle, collect firewood and wild fruits, and fetch water from rivers and dams. I did my FGASA course in 2007 in South Africa and have since worked as a field guide, tour operator and field guide trainer. My qualifications include Professional Field Guide, Professional Trails Guide, Trail Guide Mentor, SKS Birding, Specialist Track and Sign, Tracker 3 and FGASA Assessor. My next goal is the Professional Trailing and Cyber Tracker Assessor qualification.

Watch Pioneer's video

Sophie - Trainer, SAWC

I have called the South African bush home for seven years and hope to do so for many more to come. My career path has been varied, from work with global accountancy firms, oil and gas business and CNN, to field guide, Pangolin Project coordinator and conservation volunteer. My path finally brought me here to Bushwise. I am a qualified Field Guide and Lead Trails Guide with Track and Sign Level 3, and I’m currently working towards my Professional Field Guide qualification.

Watch Sophie's video

Fred - Trainer, SAWC

Originally from the Free State, I hold a degree in Nature Conservation and I’m working towards getting my Professional Field Guide qualification. I did a practical year with the Veterinary Services of SANParks before moving into guiding in 2015. I’ve worked at various lodges around Kruger and Northern KZN province. During my time at the lodges I got involved with training and mentoring new guides; I realised this is where my passion lies! I joined Bushwise in February 2023.

Watch Fred's video

Nico - Bushwise Online

I was exposed to the bush early on. My grandfather played a massive role in my life, sharing his passion, knowledge and stories of the African bush with me. I have been in the tourism industry for 11 years and actively guiding for 9 years. My current qualifications are Professional Field Guide, Professional Track & Sign, Trailing Level 3, Tracker 3, Regional Birding, and Trails guide. I am working towards SKS qualifications such as birding and walking.

Watch Nico's video

Our support staff

Claudia - Camp Operations

Growing up, I was fortunate enough to experience the eastern coast of South Africa through to the west coast. Only in 2017 was I introduced to the bush. It has taken hold of my soul and I am so privileged to be able to assist the next generation of field guides in becoming the best they can be!

Rose - Chef

Cooking is a passion of mine and I love spending time in the kitchen and experimenting with the food I make. I started as camp chef with Bushwise in 2007. Other than a period from 2012-2015, when I was a freelance chef at various lodges, I have worked for Bushwise. I’ve been the chef at the Mahlahla campus since 2015. One of the most rewarding parts of my job is working and interacting with the students. There is always something new to see and learn on campus! My sister Iris, my best friend, also works on campus which I love.

Iris - Housekeeping

My career journey began with Bushwise in 2011 as a camp chef. I worked here until 2016 when I briefly worked at the luxury Rukiya Lodge. I decided to return to Bushwise, where I took up the role of housekeeper. I also help my sister Rose out in the kitchen. I love working at Bushwise for many reasons, but the one that sticks out the most is the students. Whether they are from overseas or local South Africans, there is always a lot to learn from them. Plus I’ve made some really great friends!

Pulane - Housekeeping

I’ve been working as a housekeeper at the Bushwise Mahlahla campus since 2011. I love living and working in the bush, it’s my favourite place. I really enjoy learning about nature and have endless opportunities to do that here. I’ve learned so much about the plants, trees, birds and animals we see around camp. The students have helped me learn some of these things and I always enjoyed speaking with the students and meeting new people.

Philip - Groundsman

The Bushwise Mahlahla campus has been my home and place of work since 2018. I’m responsible for all the groundskeeping and maintenance of the camp. I enjoy making sure that everything looks good and is in running order for the rest of the staff and students. Before coming to Bushwise, I worked in anti poaching, which is where my love of nature began. I find it peaceful and relaxing in nature. I have a great time working with the students, I enjoy chatting with them and getting to know a little more about them.

Holding down head office

Eugene - Director

I was born and bred in Durban but have called various parts of South Africa home. I’ve always had a passion for wildlife. I studied operations management and over the past 15 years I’ve been in roles that range from restaurant owner, project and operations management as well as sales manager for various leading tourism and safari organisations. I joined Bushwise in 2021 with a mission to ensure we train the next generation of ethical ambassadors of the natural world by providing unmatched skills and experience.

Watch Eugene's video

Sharin - Operations Manager

My passion for the bush came from growing up on a farm and spending most holidays in Kruger National Park. I have worked for many years in the corporate industry and gave it all up for the bush. From working as a leopard researcher to managing 5-star lodges all over South Africa, with a bit of overlanding in between, I realised my passion is definitely people and conservation.

Rohandi - Administrator

I grew up in Cape Town, where I wanted to become a marine biologist growing up. I am now based in a beautiful town called Hoedspruit where my love for the African bushveld grows every day. After 10 years in the real estate industry, I finally decided to follow my passion and joined the amazing team at Bushwise. I am a mother of three beautiful children, and I love teaching them about nature.

Annie - Communications

Originally from the USA, I’ve lived in South Africa since 2014. I have a masters in global policy studies and my career has slowly shifted from international relations to conservation. Writing has always been a passion of mine, and after I completed my FGASA course in 2019, I pursued work that combined all of my interests. In addition to managing communications for Bushwise, I’m studying endangered wild dogs in my free time.

FP - Trainer, Mahlahla

Growing up, my holidays and weekend consisted out of catching snakes and exploring wild valley in the Magaliesberg mountains, thus a career in the bush came naturally. After receiving my FGASA qualifications, I set out to explore and work across Africa. I also worked on some groundbreaking conservation projects in Northern KwaZulu-Natal. My passion lead me to Bushwise! I am currently working towards my Professional Field Guide qualification as well as my specialised tracking qualifications.

Nic - Trainer, SAWC

My guiding career started in 2009 with a Diploma in Hospitality Management. I went from lodge management to guiding, where my passion truly was. I also ran my own business and worked in restaurants, construction and game farm management. I cut my teeth at some of the best lodges from the Eastern Cape, Sabi Sands, Kalahari, Balule and Klaserie. I’m a qualified Field Guide and a Lead Trails Guide and I’m working towards Professional Field Guide and Professional Trails.

Included

Your course fee includes payments for assessments and qualification exams, access to amazing amenities, and much more.

Included: career-boosting qualifications and certificates

Nationally recognised certificates

IFGA qualification (for top candidates at no extra cost)
CATHSSETA Nature Site Guide (NQF2) certificate
Bushwise trails guide theory (practical add available)
CATHSSETA Nature Site Guide (NQF4) knowledge
Firearm Proficiency SASSETA
Unit Standard: 117705 – Knowledge of the Firearm Control Act
Unit Standard: 119651 – Handle and use of manually operated rifle  or carbine
Unit Standard: 123519 – Handle and use of manually operated rifle  or carbine for business purposes
Basic Wilderness First Aid – US ID: 119567: Perform Basic Life Support and First Aid Procedures
Cybertracker Track and Sign and Trailing qualification (CATHSSETA)

Inhouse and other certificates

Bushwise professional field guide course certificate
Wildlife photography workshop
Bushwise birding specialist course
Reptile orientation course
Dangerous game experience
Social media module in the Field Guide & Lodge industry
Advanced Rifle Handling

What else is included?

Learning resources

CATHSSETA registration
Bushwise exam and assessment fee
Training conducted by experienced long-term staff
Online masterclasses led by industry experts

Activities

Overnight sleep-outs under the stars in a wildlife reserve
Guided safari walks
Visits to nature reserves
Entrance fees for excursions
Assistance with booking other extracurricular activities

Living resources

Accommodation includes:
- Shared room in a bungalow, safari tent or lodge-style housing
- Desk, cupboard and fan
- Pool
- Boma and braai area
- Space to exercise
- Social area
- Free Wi-Fi
- Library of field guiding books
- Communal or shared en-suite bathroom
- Limited laundry services
Two sets of uniforms
Fleece jacket, cap and beanie
All meals (except during off weeks)

Support services

Pre-departure support
Location orientation
24-hour in-country support
24-hour emergency phone
Emergency support from Bushwise on-site staff
Daily briefing
Final feedback session
Final day ceremony
Visits by staff while on the work placement
Access to our alumni program

What’s not included?

The following services are not included in this program:

Flights
Medical and travel insurance
Professional drivers permit and licensing costs and transportation (21 and older)
Police clearance or background check fees
Personal workwear such as hiking shoes and jackets
International and domestic airport taxes
Additional drinks and gratuities
Recommended reference books
Transport costs to the work placement
Extra local excursions
Meals, laundry and transport during free-time weeks during the course
Accommodation, electricity, internet and meals during off-weeks and during the work placement portion of the program.

Welcome to your wild home

For 6 months, your new home is a comfortable room in the bushveld, with the sounds of hyenas, owls, jackals (and even lions) in the distance. Both of our campuses have shared accommodation in permanent safari tents, bungalows and rondavels.

The Bushwise campuses are based about 60 kilometers from Hoedspruit, in Limpopo, South Africa. Our Mahlahla campus is located opposite the Greater Makalali Private Game Reserve, a vast 25,000-hectare nature reserve in the Lowveld that’s dedicated to wildlife conservation. Our second campus is operated in collaboration with the Southern African Wildlife College at their Kempiana campus in the Greater Kruger National Park.

Both campuses are in reserves with significant plant and animal diversity, including the Big Five animals. The South African bushveld is known for its rich biodiversity and will offer you every challenge and opportunity to excel as an apprentice field guide. There is no better place in the world to complete your field guiding training and become a qualified safari guide.

Virtual tours

Campus details

Accommodation is lodge-style housing at one of our fenced campuses. Students will share a chalet or a room that accommodates two students. Bathrooms are either shared or communal. Laundry service is provided for clothes and linen (to a reasonable extent).

It’s just a short walk along trails through campus to get to your classroom, so you’ll remain immersed in the bush during training. The campus dining facilities and other buildings are all close by, so you never have to drive or travel far for anything during your stay. And for the hot summer afternoons between activities, there’s even a swimming pool.

Our campuses are safe from predators, so you are free to go for a walk or a run anywhere on campus. We have a large variety of bird species that are regular visitors to our campus water features, as well as secretive species such as bush babies, honey badgers and civets that are often seen. In these surroundings, you can sharpen your practical skills by going on bush walks, spending time birding, and encountering the animals that roam the campus. What an incredible way to spend your free time on campus!

Explore campus

Accommodation

Housing is shared accommodation in either safari tents, bungalows or rondavels. Real beds and linens, showers and restrooms. Bush views from every room!

Facilities

Campus becomes a second home with a communal kitchen, well-equipped classrooms, study areas, a library of reference books and more.

Meals

Our dedicated chefs prepare two hot meals a day that are shared in the communal dining areas. These are supplemented throughout the day by fruit, cereal, snacks, coffee, tea and water.

Fitness and health

Don’t fall behind in your fitness while you’re in the bush! Our campuses have a swimming pool, gym/weights and fitness areas, and walking trails through the bush.

Communication

We have wifi access at certain spots around campus, so you can keep in touch with friends and family back home. Local cell phone service is also available, depending on your carrier.

Transportation

You can us a transfer service or drive yourself to campus (please note we have limited parking). For group activities where there is travel, we organise transportation.

Braai and boma

There’s nothing like sitting by the campfire, enjoying a cooked meal and watching the stars! Both campuses have bomas and areas to braai (barbecue).

Safety and security

Our campuses are contained within game fences to keep out dangerous animals. We also have 24-7 response from staff and access to emergency services nearby.

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Projected
career path

Global
career potential

Salary
expectations

Award

Recognition

Selective

admissions?

FGASA QUALIFICATION

Recognised in Southern Africa

Guide at a range of lodges

£11,000-£26,000 per year (Basic salary + tips)

FGASA Nature Site Guide

Recognised as industry standard for guiding in South Africa

How does an IFGA qualification compare?

The International Field Guide Association (IFGA) sets global standards for wildlife and safari guides.

The letters IFG after their name mean a guide has been successfully admitted to, and passed, the most selective guide training program in the world, and they are prepared to exceed guest expectations, every step of the way.

Bushwise is the exclusive Southern African training provider for IFGA qualifications. For the select students in our Professional Field Guide course who qualify, IFGA training comes at no additional cost.

Shaping ultimate

wildlife guides

Guide or head guide at luxury lodges, hosting international guests

Yes, placements across five continents

£48,000-£64,000 per year* (Basic salary + international tips)

The letters IFG after your name

Preferred by 92% of luxury lodges**

Yes. Approximately 20% of candidates are successful.

IFGA
QUALIFICATION

FGASA
QUALIFICATION

Guide at a range of lodges

Projected career path

Global career potential

Recognised in Southern Africa

Salary expectations

R150,000-350,000 per year (Basic salary + tips)

Award

FGASA Nature Site Guide

Recognition

Recognised as industry standard for guiding in South Africa

Selective admissions?

*Projections based on 7+ years of experience working at luxury safari lodges or their equivalent. **Based on market research conducted in 2023 with luxury lodges across Southern Africa, when comparing IFGA with other guiding qualifications.

Exclusive

benefits at Bushwise

Career guarantee

An industry exclusive

Our guarantee

100% employment rate

Your dream career is in sight

View alumni stories

Recruitment services

Networking & job opportunities

See how it works

Where every day is wildlife day

Save up to £1000 on Bushwise courses.

Apply by 30 April!

Enquire now

Bushwise

Professional Field Guide Course

The industry’s most comprehensive professional field guide course, set in South Africa’s Big Five territory. Earn your Bushwise and CATHSSETA Nature Site Guide (NQF2) qualification or go further and qualify as an exclusive IFGA Guide.

DURATIONS: 23 or 50 WEEKS

NEXT START DATE: 8 JUL 2024

FORMAT: ON-CAMPUS

ACCREDITATION: IFGA & CATHSSETA

AGE: 18+

Where

the wild

becomes knowledge

Course details

FGASA QUALIFICATION

How does an IFGA qualification compare?

Shaping ultimate

wildlife guides

IFGA QUALIFICATION

FGASA QUALIFICATION

*Projections based on 7+ years of experience working at luxury safari lodges or their equivalent. **Based on market research conducted in 2023 with luxury lodges across Southern Africa, when comparing IFGA with other guiding qualifications.

Exclusive

benefits at Bushwise

Career guarantee

100% employment rate

Recruitment services

Where every day is wildlife day

Bushwise

Professional Field Guide Course

IFGA
QUALIFICATION

FGASA
QUALIFICATION