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H4H - BER

Professional Guide Entrepreneur Programme

Responsible Resource Use and Field Guiding - training as a field guide on foot as well as in the field of vehicle approach
Course ID
Farmer
Department
Responsible Resource Management
Instructor
Various instructors
Method
Blended Learning, Campus
Duration
3 months

Where Wilderness Guiding Meets Business Innovation

Are you passionate about wildlife, conservation, and adventure tourism? Do you dream of not only guiding in the wild but also running your own nature-based tourism business?

The Southern African Wildlife College invites local and international communities to apply for our Professional Guide Entrepreneur Programme — a dynamic and accredited course that combines Dangerous Game Site Guiding (NQF 2) with New Venture Creation (NQF 4).

 

Why This Programme?

This unique, dual-focus training will empower you to:

  • Guide professionally in Big Five areas with confidence and safety.
  • Start and manage your own tourism venture—from walking safaris to eco-lodges.
  • Promote sustainable development and conservation tourism.
  • Join a network of guides, mentors, and ecotourism leaders across Africa and beyond.

What you'll learn:

Dangerous Game Site Guide (NQF 2)

  • Interpret and track dangerous game
  • Conduct guided experiences in wild and remote areas
  • Manage risk and ensure guest safety
  • Communicate conservation ethics to tourists

Additionals – Advanced Rifle Handling competency, PFTC, VPDA

New Venture Creation (NQF 4)

  • Identify viable business opportunities in the wildlife economy
  • Build and pitch a winning business plan
  • Manage finances, marketing, and operations
  • Register and grow your own tourism enterprise

Who should apply?

  • Local youth living near protected areas
  • Aspiring guides wanting accredited qualifications
  • Community conservationists
  • International students passionate about African wildlife and ecotourism
  • Eco-entrepreneurs ready to make their mark in the wildlife economy

Course Details:

  • Location: Southern African Wildlife College, Kruger National Park, South Africa
  • Duration: 3 months (modular delivery with field and classroom learning)
  • Accreditation: CATHSSETA (South Africa) – NQF Level 2 & 4
  • Includes:
    • Practical fieldwork, business incubation support, and mentorship
    • Meals and Accommodation
    • Field Gear/Uniform
    • Ammunition for shooting practice

Apply Now!  Spaces limited to only 10 participants

Course start date 19 January – 17 April 2026

To receive the application form or for more information click the enquire button below.

Enquire

The SAWC offers organisations and or private businesses the opportunity to enrol their staff for training in any of our short courses. Training can take place on campus, via online format, or on-site at a location preferred and provided by the client. Courses can be tailored according to the specific needs of the organisation. 

Apply