SANParks invites suitably qualified applicants to apply for their Field Guiding Skills Programme vacancies.
The closing date for applications is 24 December 2025.
What Is the Field Guiding Skills Programme?
This is an 18‑month job training course that takes you from classroom lessons to real work in a national park.
It runs in Bontebok National Park, a beautiful wildlife reserve in the Western Cape.
- First 6 months: You’ll learn the basics of guiding, wildlife spotting, safety rules, and how to talk to visitors.
- Next 12 months: You’ll work on the ground as a trainee guide and get a higher monthly stipend.
Why This Is Cool
- You’ll get paid while you learn.
- You’ll work in nature, meeting people from all over the world.
- After the programme, you could become a full‑time guide, a conservation officer, or even start your own eco‑tour guide business.
Quick Facts
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Name | Field Guiding Skills Programme |
| Partner | SANParks & CATHSSETA |
| Location | Bontebok National Park (Western Cape) |
| Length | 18 months (6‑month training + 12‑month placement) |
| Positions | 2 spots |
| Pay | R2 695/month (first 6 months) → R3 500/month (next 12 months) |
| Closing Date | 24 December 2025 |
| Age | Under 35 years |
| Minimum School | Grade 12 (Matric) |
| Application | Online form + email documents |
Who Can Apply?
You must meet all of these requirements:
- South African citizen
- Under 35 years old
- Finished Grade 12
- Unemployed (looking for a job)
- Live 40–100 km from Bontebok National Park
- No criminal record
- Physically fit
- Never worked in a SANParks skills programme, learnership, or internship before
This program is for people who are doing it for the first time.
What You’ll Learn
- How to guide visitors safely and knowledgeably
- Identify plants and animals in the park
- Follow conservation rules and protect wildlife
- Talk to visitors and make their experience memorable
- Keep the environment clean and safe
- Act professionally in a protected area
These skills are approved by CATHSSETA, so they count toward a real job.
How to Apply – Step‑by‑Step
Fill out the online form
Send your documents
- Email to: ANP.vacancies@sanparks.org
- Subject line: FGTMNP_12/2025
- Attach the following:
- Updated CV
- Certified copy of your Matric certificate
- Certified copy of your ID card
- Academic transcripts (if you have any)
- Proof of where you live
Wait for a reply
- Only shortlisted people will be contacted.
- If you don’t hear back within 14 days after the closing date, your application is not successful.
Questions?
Call Mmaphiri Shiko at 072 655 6326.
After the Programme – Career Paths
Graduates can move into roles such as:
- Entry‑level field guide
- Nature conservation assistant
- Eco‑tourism assistant
- Lodge or reserve guide
- Conservation officer (after further study)
- Jobs in tourism & hospitality inside SANParks
- Private game reserve work
- Freelance or community guiding
Many go on to register with FGASA, earn a nature conservation diploma, and work in other parks or lodges.
Why CATHSSETA Is Important
CATHSSETA (Culture, Arts, Tourism, Hospitality, and Sport SETA) makes sure that:
- The training is recognised by the industry
- The skills match real job needs
- You get a certified, transferable experience that boosts your CV
That means a higher chance of finding work after the programme.
Frequently Asked Questions
| # | Question | Answer |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Is this a learnership? | No, it is a skills programme with training and real work. |
| 2 | Will I get a permanent job at SANParks? | SANParks does not guarantee a permanent role, but the experience helps a lot. |
| 3 | Do they give me a place to stay? | Training costs are covered if the training is away from home. |
| 4 | I live far away, can I apply? | No – you must live within 40–100 km of Bontebok National Park. |
| 5 | Is there an age limit? | Yes, you must be under 35 years old. |
Disclaimer
- The job is run by SANParks; we are not the employer.
- We do not collect applications.
- Verify every detail directly with SANParks.
- False information will disqualify you.
Ready to start a career in nature?
Apply before 24 December 2025 and get your chance to work in one of South Africa’s most beautiful national parks!
