A field guide is a book designed to help the reader identify wildlife or other objects of natural occurrence. It is generally designed to be brought into the “field” or local area where such objects exist to help distinguish between similar objects.
What does a field guide do?
A field guide is a book designed to help the reader identify wildlife (flora or fauna) or other objects of natural occurrence (e.g. rocks and minerals). It is generally designed to be brought into the “field” or local area where such objects exist to help distinguish between similar objects.
The role of a field guide is unique and very diverse. It involves them being a guide, teacher, friend, game warden, doctor, storyteller and sometimes even a cook for guests. Each day in the wilderness is filled with new surprises and experiences.
The work of a field guide includes:
living in remote areas for extended periods of time
learning social and leadership skills in order to deal with clients appropriately
working as a team including assisting game rangers
practical skills such as driving a 4×4 vehicle and photography
ensuring the safety of the guests while on game drives.
What is Safari field guide?
Safari Field Guides are the people who are the critical link between the guest and the game experience, as they can either make or break your African photo safari. As a visitor to the national parks you want an overall good experience and this includes the food, service, accommodation, and game drives.
WHAT QUALIFICATIONS DO I NEED?
To become a field guide you have to qualify with a Nature Site Guide (NQF2) and/or Field Guides Association of South Africa (FGASA) Apprentice Field Guide qualification.
You can, however, further your career through self-study and logging practical hours while working as a field guide in the industry. You have to adhere to certain requirements before being able to get a higher qualification through FGASA.
WHAT SUBJECTS DO I NEED?
For this career no specific subjects are required. Knowledge of geography and biology would be an advantage to anyone wanting to become a field guide
WHERE CAN I STUDY?
Eco Training
Professional Field Guide – South Africa & Botswana
Eco Training Field Guide (FGASA/NQF2) – South Africa, Kenya & Botswana
Tel: +27 (0)31 752 2532
How to Become A Field Guide In South Africa
Firstly you would need to find a relevant CATHSSETA Accredited Qualification or Skills Programme.
CATHSSETA (Cultural Activities, Tourism, Hospitality and Sports) are the Sector Education and Training Authority’s (SETA) appointed body that regulates and administers qualifications for the Field Guiding industry.
They set the standards and the curriculum, they were formerly known as THETA. Qualifications or Skills Programmes (shortened version of the full qualifications) can be gained from most of the reputable Training Providers OR from FGASA directly. FGASA stands for the Field Guiding Association of South Africa.
Ensure that your Training Provider offers a CATHSSETA Accredited Assessment as part of their programme and issues successful graduates with a CATHSSETA Accredited Qualification or Skills Programme Certificate.
It is also very important to note that you must be 21 or older to guide.
Technically you cannot register and work as a legal field guide until aged 21, however you can get your FGASA Qualification before the age of 21. This is stated in the Act, so it is the law. You will need to obtain a Public Drivers Permit (PDP).
This document is obtainable from any Police Station and thereafter you need to go to the local Traffic Department. To gain this permit you simply require a valid South African driver’s license that has not been endorsed in anyway. It may take between 3 and 6 months to obtain this document, so plan ahead. PDP’s will only be issued to persons aged 21 and older.
You need a have avalid First Aid certificate.
Some Training Providers offer the First Aid Certificate as part of their programmes, but most don’t so it is important to see what is included in the course you chose. When selecting a First Aid Training Provider ensure that their qualification is accepted by DEAT.
Finally, become a legally registered Field Guide in South Africa, it is necessary to register with The National Department of Tourism (NDT).
How do I become a field guide in South Africa?
To become a field guide you have to qualify with a Nature Site Guide (NQF2) and/or Field Guides Association of South Africa (FGASA) Apprentice Field Guide qualification. You can, however, further your career through self-study and logging practical hours while working as a field guide in the industry.
How much does a field guide earn in South Africa?
Entry level guides can expect salaries between R4,000.00 – R7,000.00 a month. This is all dependent on what lodge you will work for, the size, the star grading, the rates, the area and the occupancy. You will also have the opportunity to earn tips.
How long does it take to become a field guide in South Africa ?
These qualifications are generally three years long and consist of two years of theory and one year of practical work. There are also other short course options out there, so be sure to do some research before choosing the best option for you!
What is an apprentice field guide in South Africa ?
As a general guideline, an Apprentice Field Guide (NQF2) has a sound knowledge of the history, geology, plants and animals (i.e. birds, mammals, reptiles, etc.) in the specific area of guiding operation.
Is tour guide a good career?
A tour guide gets the opportunity to see the world. It is a job with no time limit. You have to work for a long 12 hours in a day and may be that on the next day you will be free. It is a good career industry but very competitive
What is the main aim of a nature guide in South Africa ?
Sharing factual knowledge and meaningful interpretation of the natural environment in an ethical way, is the main objective of nature guiding, which requires a high standard of training and quality service with the safety and enjoyment of people as priority.
Who is nature guide?
Nature Guides take on responsibility to protect the natural treasures of their region, which provide the basis for sustainable nature tourism and their own livelihoods.
What is an outdoor guide in South Africa ?
Outdoor adventure guides organize and conduct expeditions for sports enthusiasts, adventurers, tourists or resort guests. They work for adventure tourism companies, resorts, parks, lodges or campgrounds, or they operate their own small businesses. Set up and break camp. Prepare and/or serve meals.