Nature travel South Africa: Safari Guide Experi­ence (21/28 Days)

To join this experience, you need to be 18 years or older and have sufficient English skills to participate in this experience. Furthermore, you should be physically fit. You might need a visa for your journey. Depending on the duration of your stay and your destination, the requirements might vary. You should check out the foreign department’s website for the visa standards or ask the Natucate team directly.

Before your departure, we’ll assist you with your preparation, including helping you secure travel insurance, find a flight, and navigate your visa application if needed. Throughout your experience, professional instructors will provide ongoing support and training. Accommodation, all meals, and all activities on campus are included.

Accommodation consists of safari-style tents in the Selati Game Reserve. Free Wi-Fi and a collection of field guiding books are available, and bathrooms are shared or communal, with en-suite options. Limited laundry services are also provided.

In general, you need to talk to your doctor and check what vaccinations he/she suggests. It is advised to be vaccinated against Diphtheria, Morbilli, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR).  In case of injuries, it is also advised to be vaccinated against Tetanus. For current information and warnings regarding your destination, you should check out the homepage of your country’s foreign department. Moreover, we recommend taking a small “travel” pharmacy with you which includes items like painkillers, plasters, and antihistamines. You must get travel insurance to start your wilderness adventure with Natucate. We can help you find something for you. Let us know if you have any kind of allergies, so we can inform our partner.

As you'll be spending plenty of time outdoors, it's important to pack the right gear. Bring sturdy hiking boots, lightweight long pants for daily wear, and a hat to shield yourself from the sun. Opt for clothing in neutral colours like grey, khaki, brown, or green, which blend well with the environment. Additionally, pack warmer layers for cooler evenings or unexpected temperature shifts.

Don’t forget essentials like sunscreen, insect repellent, a reusable water bottle, a power bank, and a sketchpad to capture the beauty around you. Avoid packing unnecessary items that could take up space or prove impractical in the field.

In order to get well prepared for your course, we recommend taking a closer look at the following books (in English):

• Emmet, Megan; Patrick, Sean: Game Ranger in your Backpack
• Sinclair, Ian; Hockey, Phil; Tarboton, Warwick: Sasol Birds of Southern Africa
• Estes, Richard: The Behaviour Guide to African Mammals
• van Wyk, Braam; van Wyk, Piet: Field Guide to Trees of Southern Africa
• Liebenberg, Louis: Photographic guide to Tracks and Tracking of Southern Africa

Please remind us to share our learner support with you.

We advise you to book travel cancellation insurance, in case you can’t attend the experience. There are also options for insurance if you have to quit your stay earlier or will join later than expected.

We’ll assist you with the organisation and planning, but you must book your flight. Arrive in Johannesburg (OR Tambo International Airport) at least one day before the start of your experience. When your Safari Guide Experience begins, you’ll be picked up from the airport and travel to the camp with your fellow travellers.

Tucked away in the heart of the Selati Game Reserve, Nkuwa Wilderness Camp provides a secluded and immersive bush retreat. With only four en-suite safari tents, this off-grid, eco-conscious camp blends rustic elegance with modern amenities.

Each tent is elevated on raised platforms and features canvas walls and wooden structures that harmonise with the surrounding wilderness. Inside, you'll find an en-suite bathroom, a tea and coffee station, and thoughtfully arranged furnishings designed to deepen your connection to nature.

The camp’s shared space includes a cosy lounge, a dining area, a fire pit, and a braai (barbecue) area, perfect for unwinding and socialising with fellow guests. Entirely powered by solar energy, Nkuwa Wilderness Camp prioritises sustainability. Enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi and all-inclusive meals, ensuring a comfortable and memorable stay.

Yes, every camp allows a travel partner with whom you can share a tent; make sure to inform us on time.

Your meals are provided daily, with two hot meals served in the communal dining area. Breakfast and lunch are hearty and varied, and dinner may be served in the dining area or as a communal braai around the campfire. Snacks, fruit, cereal, coffee, tea, and water are available throughout the day.

Yes, the food is quite balanced, which is why a vegetarian diet is very well possible. We need more preparation for a vegan or gluten-free diet. Please let us know your dietary preferences beforehand.

Yes, the team on site will always help you and can answer your questions. They will be responsible for you and help you with any kind of problem. Moreover, you can always contact the Natucate team.

During the experience, most of your expenses will be covered, including food, accommodation, and transport. However, you may need extra money for things like external transfers, snacks, beverages, or souvenirs. Cash can be easily withdrawn at the airport or from ATMs in most cities. Before arriving in Southern Africa, it's a good idea to check if your bank card works internationally. While it's advisable to bring some cash for emergencies, we recommend not carrying large amounts of money, especially in urban areas.

You can stay in touch with family and friends through Wi-Fi, which is available in selected areas of the campus. Local cell phone service is also available, depending on your carrier. Additionally, you can use internet cafes or mobile data if necessary.

For detailed weather information, please refer to our country information page. Southern Africa generally has a warm, sunny climate with hot summers and mild winters. Summer (November to February) temperatures range from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F), with occasional rain. Winter (June to August) is cooler, with daytime temperatures between 15°C and 25°C (59°F to 77°F), while nights can get chilly, dropping to around 5°C to 10°C (41°F to 50°F). Be prepared for temperature variations, especially during early mornings and evenings.

Staying vigilant and mindful of potential risks is essential when in the wilderness. Your expert instructors will guide you on when and how to be extra cautious, always putting your safety first. While dangerous or venomous animals typically avoid humans and only display aggression if provoked, it's important to follow safety instructions and adhere to the rules to ensure a secure and enjoyable experience. There is 24/7 staff support with access to nearby emergency services. Rest assured, your instructors are committed to your well-being, offering guidance and support throughout your time in the bush.

This experience does not offer official certification as the focus is on practical experience and knowledge. However, it is an excellent foundation for completing further training programmes and acquiring the necessary certificates for a career as a safari guide.

The 21/28-Day IFGA Safari Guide Experience is the perfect opportunity for those passionate about wildlife and nature but unable to commit to months of training. It offers a hands-on introduction to safari guiding, providing you with valuable skills and insights into the world of field guiding. Throughout the experience, you'll learn from expert instructors, participate in game drives, and gain practical, real-world experience in the bush. Whether you're exploring a potential career in guiding or simply seeking a deeper connection to nature, this experience will enhance your understanding of wildlife and provide a solid foundation for further exploration in the guiding world.

After completing the 21/28-Day Guide Safari Experience, if you decide to pursue a career as a professional guide, the next step is to enrol in an in-person Field Guiding Course. This will allow you to gain the necessary practical skills and complete assessments to become fully certified. You can take the CATHSSETA Nature Site Guide (NQF2) exam, a foundational qualification for field guides, and continue your journey towards obtaining the IFGA certification. With hands-on training, you’ll be ready to start guiding professionally at safari lodges, reserves, or in conservation.