If you enjoy reading National Geographic or watching nature programmes on TV, why not cut out the middle man and see one of the most exciting natural worlds on the planet first hand? Our partner project in the African bush will take you on a 14-day nature guide course in a 33,000 hectare game reserve. This is a rare opportunity to not only experience the bush, but to learn about and understand the environment around you at an established training centre. The training course is ‘hands on’ and you will see African wildlife in their natural surroundings. This is an introduction course; for those who want to progress to get their FGASA Level 1 qualification check out the 4 week course which is even wilder!
The training centre aims to improve the standard of guiding in South Africa.
Established in 1993 with this mission, the training centre was one of the first to organize formal training programmes for safari guides. The course is structured to maximize the practical experience of the students in the bush and serves as a great taster into life in the bush! All programmes are accredited by the Field Guides Association of Southern Africa.
For anyone interested in the outdoors, wildlife and conservation this is an amazing opportunity not to be missed. You and the other students are at the reserve to learn and participate in real bush craft! As a student you will be expected to do some research and be ready for the tasks and discussions as assigned. The opportunities to learn are huge if you are open minded and willing to participate. Here’s a typical day’s training (which may vary depending on the weather and the particular course).
On top of this action-packed schedule, each day allows for hours of time spent in the field interpreting the ecology and enjoying the wonderful wildlife around you!
Wildlife Trainees stay in tents based in the wildlife reserves, so be prepared to hear things which go bump in the night! As you lie inside your tent you may hear the sound of lions roaring and nearby hyenas whooping! It will be a truly authentic experience and although it is basic, there are shared bathrooms with flushing toilets and running water. There isn’t any electricity in the camp so lighting is available through paraffin lanterns, so it may be a good idea to bring a good torch and plenty of batteries! There is a communal area where all participants gather for meals and lectures. As you sit out and admire the view, there’s a great chance you’ll spot white rhinoceros, lion and elephants and a host of other game species!
If you want the folks at home to keep in touch with you we can provide you with this temporary address to receive your mail:
c/o EcoTraining
PO Box 19122
Nelspruit
1200
Please book your flight to arrive into Hoedspruit (airport code HDS) on the advertised arrival date to ensure your airport pickup.
You are advised to bring the following items:
*IMPORTANT NOTE – YOU SHOULD TAKE PRECAUTIONS AGAINST MALARIA!
We do recommend that all of our volunteers take malaria prophylaxis, as our camps are situated in malaria high risk areas. We also encourage our students protect themselves by using insect repellant, wearing long sleeved shirts and long pants at night if possible.
*There will be drinks, T-shirts and caps for sale, so please bring along some cash to cover these costs. Also, laundry can be done and paid for at the camp.
*Please note that radios and CD players are not allowed but walkmans are a good alternative. If you can play a guitar or other “quiet” musical instrument, you’re welcome to bring it along!
*There is a generator in the camp that can be used to charge batteries. Please be sure to bring along all the necessary adaptors, etc.
All meals will be provided and will be delicious from locally sourced ingredients!
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