Your Next Step into Nature: Join the Field Guiding Skills Programme 2026
Do you love the outdoors, want to learn about wildlife, and dream of a job that lets you share that passion with others? South African National Parks (SANParks), together with the Council for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (CATHSSETA), is opening a chance for unemployed South African youth to become field guides. This 18‑month course will give you hands‑on experience in Bontebok National Park in the Western Cape, and it can be the launchpad for a career in conservation or eco‑tourism. If you’re under 35, have finished high school, and live within 40–100 km of the park, you should read on.
What the Programme Looks Like
- Name: Field Guiding Skills Programme
- Partners: SANParks & CATHSSETA
- Location: Bontebok National Park, Western Cape
- Length: 18 months (6 months of training + 12 months in the field)
- Places: 2
- Pay:
- Training: R2 695 a month
- Placement: R3 500 a month
- Start Date: 24 December 2025 (no late applications)
The first half of the programme is classroom and workshop training, where you’ll learn about wildlife, park rules, and how to talk to visitors safely. The second half is on‑the‑ground work in the park. You’ll guide real visitors, help with conservation projects, and get a feel for what a full‑time job in a national park is like. SANParks covers travel and living costs for the training period if you have to travel away from home.
What You’ll Learn
- Basics of guiding: how to lead groups, explain interesting facts, and keep everyone safe.
- Identifying plants and animals that live in the park.
- The principles of protecting the environment and caring for wildlife.
- How to interact politely with tourists and answer questions.
- Safety rules inside a protected area.
- Professional behavior for people who work in parks.
You’ll finish with a certificate that counts in the labour market and can be used when you look for a job in parks or lodges.
Who Can Apply
- South African citizens only.
- Under 35 years old.
- Grade 12 (Matric) finished.
- Currently unemployed.
- Live 40–100 km from Bontebok National Park.
- Have no criminal record.
- Physically fit.
- Must not have taken part in a SANParks learning program before.
This programme is meant for those who haven’t had a chance to try a similar training yet.
Documents You Need
- A current CV.
- Certified copy of your Grade 12 certificate.
- Certified copy of your South African ID.
- Academic transcripts (if you have them).
- Proof that you live near the park (such as a utility bill).
Missing any of these will mean your application is not considered.
How to Apply
Step 1 – Fill out the online form
Go to the link below and complete all questions.
Apply for the Field Guiding Skills Programme 2026
Step 2 – Email your documents
Send the required paperwork to ANP.vacancies@sanparks.org.
Use the subject line “FGTMNP_12/2025” so we can find your file quickly.
Step 3 – Wait for the reply
Only those who are shortlisted will hear from us.
If you don’t hear anything within 14 days of the closing date, you won’t be selected.
If you have questions, call Mmaphiri Shiko at 072 655 6326.
What Happens After the Course
When you finish, you’ll be ready for jobs like:
- Entry‑level field guide
- Nature Conservation assistant
- Eco‑tourism helper
- Guide at a lodge or reserve
- Hospitality roles in SANParks
- Jobs at private game reserves
Many alumni also go on to register with FGASA or study further in nature conservation diplomas, opening more doors in the sector.
Why CATHSSETA Matters
CATHSSETA makes sure the training matches what employers need. They give the course an industry‑approved status, so the skills you earn are recognised everywhere. That helps you find work once you finish.
Don’t Miss Out
The deadline is 24 December 2025. After that date, no new applications will be accepted. Act now if you want to step into a career that mixes adventure, science, and service to the environment.