Free State DESTEA Announces 2026 Culture Tourist Guide Training – Apply Now
Free State Department of Economic, Small Business Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs (DESTEA) invites all qualified applicants to apply for its Culture Tourist Guide Training Programme.
The deadline to submit your application is 6 February 2026.
What Is This Programme?
DESTEA, together with the Kopanong Local Municipality, has opened a training scheme that will turn 10 eager people into professional culture and heritage tour guides along the Springbok Route.
The goal is to give unemployed youth a chance to start a career in tourism, and the programme is open to people with and without disabilities.
Tourism is a big part of South Africa’s economy. If you live near the sites and love stories, history or nature, this could be the first step toward a job that lets you share your community’s heritage with visitors.
Quick Snapshot
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Programme | Culture Tourist Guide Training Programme |
| Host | Free State Department of Economic, Small Business Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs (DESTEA) |
| Partner | Kopanong Local Municipality |
| Places Covered | Springbok Route Heritage Sites |
| How many spots | 10 guides |
| Who can apply | Unemployed South Africans aged 18‑35, living within 40‑60 km of the sites |
| Apply by | 6 February 2026 |
| Where to send | Xhariep District Municipality, Trompsburg |
| Contact | Mr A.M. Leeuw – 066 487 2856 |
Must‑Have Requirements
- South African citizen – you’ll need a certified copy of your ID.
- Age 18‑35 and currently without a job.
- Finished high school (Matric) or have a similar qualification.
- Can read, write, and speak English.
- Passion for tourism or culture.
- Live within 40‑60 km of the Springbok Route – prove it with a recent municipal bill or a letter from your ward councillor or tribal authority.
- Extra points if you already studied tourism or an environmental topic.
Tip: Even if you have Matric, the proof of residence must still be recent – it’s a hard rule.
Who Will Be Disqualified
- More than one applicant from the same household.
- If your proof of residence is an affidavit – that won’t be accepted.
If your family member has already applied from the same home, only one of you can go ahead.
Documents You Need
- A detailed CV.
- Certified copies of:
- ID
- Matric certificate or equivalent
- Proof of residence (not older than 3 months)
You will also sign a commitment letter that shows you’re ready to finish the training.
How to Apply – Step by Step
- Update your CV – add your name, contact details, school, any volunteer work, languages you know, and what you love about tourism.
- Get your paperwork certified – take your ID copy, Matric copy and any other certificates to a police station or a commissioner of oaths. Make sure the copy is clear.
- Gather a valid proof of residence – a recent bill, a letter from a ward councillor or a tribal authority letter. Do not use affidavits.
- Pack everything together – put the CV, certified ID, certified Matric, and proof of residence in one neat folder.
- Submit before the deadline – hand the application to the Xhariep District Municipality in Trompsburg.
Address: 20 Iouw Street, Trompsburg, 9913 (Private Bag X136).
Ask for a stamped receipt when you give it to the clerk. - Stay ready – if you are called for an interview, be punctual and show your enthusiasm for the job.
Why must you live close to the sites?
Local guides need to be available on short notice, travel costs are lower, and they can build a stronger connection with the community.
How to Make Your CV Stand Out
- Write a short personal statement that shows you love heritage and want to help visitors.
- List every language you can speak – tourism loves multilingual guides.
- Mention any local events or volunteer projects you’ve joined.
- Keep a phone number and a professional e‑mail ready.
Career Path After Training
| Level | Possible Jobs |
|---|---|
| Entry | Cultural Tourist Guide, Heritage Site Guide, Local Tour Assistant |
| Mid‑Level | Professional Tourist Guide (officially registered), Tour Coordinator, Visitor Experience Officer |
| Advanced | Tour Operator (run your own tours), Tourism Business Owner, Tourism Marketing Specialist, Museum or Heritage Centre Programme Officer |
| Other Options | Hospitality management, event coordination, small‑business support programmes |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this for anyone in South Africa?
No, it is a Free State provincial programme focused on the Kopanong area.Can I be over 35?
No. Applicants must be 18‑35 years old.What if I don’t have Matric?
You need Matric or an equivalent qualification.Can I use an affidavit for proof of residence?
No – affidavits are not accepted.What if two people from my household want to apply?
Only one applicant per household is allowed.Is a tourism qualification required?
Not required, but it gives you an edge.Can people with disabilities apply?
Yes – you are encouraged to do so.Where do I hand in my application?
Xhariep District Municipality, Trompsburg.
Submit Your Application
Ready to join? Click here to start your journey: Apply Now
For more details, visit Free State Department of Economic, Small Business Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs (DESTEA).
Important Notes
- We do not guarantee a place in the programme – we only share the opportunity.
- Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee selection.
- Late applications may not be accepted.
- Confirm all details with Mr A.M. Leeuw if you have questions.
Apply by 6 February 2026 and turn your love for culture into a real job!
