With natural assets and biodiversity almost beyond compare, South Africa is world renowned for its diverse and extensive natural beauty and opportunities to explore and experience nature based and outdoor adventure activities. The tourism industry, attracting both local and international tourists contributes 3.7% to South Africa’s GDP. With much to offer the outdoor adventurer, outdoor activity guiding is an increasingly expanding industry, and offers opportunities to share South Africa’s natural beauty, sustainably.
Outdoor adventure guides work with tourists, outdoor enthusiasts and other people interested in outdoor recreational activities. They spend the majority of their time in outdoor environments and can work irregular hours depending on the activity and the weather.
Outdoor adventure guides require extensive experience with an outdoor activity and knowledge of environment, health and safety procedures, with extensive experience in emergency procedures and first aid, coupled with:
Demonstrate the concept and skills used in outdoor adventure activities
Explain and enforce safety procedures, rules and regulations
Instruct clients in the use of relevant outdoor adventure equipment
Evaluate and monitor clients as they participate in activities
Diploma and Advanced Diploma in Tourism Management at CPUT, CUT, DUT, TUT, UJ, UNISA and WSU
They can additionally benefit from a National Certificate in Tourism (Guiding) at National Qualifications Framework level 2 and 4 offered at the Wildlife and Environment Society of South Africa and the Field Guides Association of Southern Africa, accredited by the Culture, Arts, Tourism, Hospitality and Sport Sector Education and Training Authority. Training could also take place on the job with mentoring by an experienced guide.
Adventure tourism companies.
Holiday resorts, hotels and lodges.
Private game reserves.
Private guiding services.
