Nature travel South Africa: Safari Guide Experi­ence

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.

You will be based in the Selati Game Reserve at Nkuwa Wilderness Camp which offers an intimate and immersive bushveld retreat. With just four en-suite safari tents, this eco-friendly, off-grid camp combines rustic charm with modern comforts. Free Wi-Fi and a library 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.

During your time in the bush, you’ll stay at Job’s Halt Camp, located on the banks of the Makhutswi River. The camp is solar-powered, with electric backup on overcast days, and offers five colonial-style en-suite rooms with twin beds, a couch, a cupboard, and a private bathroom.

Facilities include an open boma, outdoor lounge and dining area, a splash pool, and a viewing deck overlooking the river. Limited laundry services are available, and free Wi-Fi is provided in the main area.

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

Meals are provided daily, with two delicious hot meals served in the communal dining area. Breakfast and lunch are hearty and diverse, while dinner is often enjoyed in the dining area or as a communal braai around the campfire. Throughout the day, snacks, fruit, cereal, coffee, tea, and water are available to keep you refreshed.

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 aware of your surroundings and following safety guidelines is important when spending time in the wilderness. Your expert instructors will ensure you know when and how to be more cautious and will always prioritize your safety. While wildlife, including potentially dangerous animals, typically avoid humans and only act defensively if threatened, it’s essential to follow the safety instructions provided to ensure a fun and secure experience. There is 24/7 staff support with access to emergency services nearby. Rest assured, your instructors are dedicated 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.

After completing the 7 or 14-day Safari Guide Experience, if you're inspired to pursue a career as a professional guide, the next step is to enroll in an in-person field guiding course. This will give you the practical skills and assessments needed for certification. You can take the CATHSSETA Nature Site Guide (NQF2) exam, which is the first step towards becoming a qualified guide. From there, you can continue your path to obtaining IFGA certification. With hands-on training and real-world experience, you'll be ready to start guiding at safari lodges, nature reserves, or within the conservation sector.

After completing the 7 or 14-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.