This intimate luxury operation based in Zululand offers guests an immersive wilderness experience combined with warm hospitality, exceptional guiding, and personalised service standards. The ideal couple will be hands-on, mature, adaptable, and comfortable working within a remote Big 5 reserve environment.
Role 1: Trails Guide
Candidate Responsibilities:
- Conduct interpretive game drives and advanced Big 5 walking safaris
- Lead trails experiences in accordance with reserve safety protocols and firearm procedures
- Deliver engaging, conservation-focused guest experiences with strong ecological knowledge
- Ensure guest safety and maintain high guiding and hosting standards at all times
- Assist with vehicle, equipment, and guiding logistics maintenance
- Support lodge operations and guest hosting where required
- Occasionally assist with guiding responsibilities at other lodges or camps within the reserve when operationally needed
Core Criteria:
- FGASA Full Trails Guide qualification (essential)
- Valid PDP, rifle competency, and up-to-date First Aid certification
- Previous experience guiding within a Big 5 reserve environment
- Strong hosting ability and guest engagement skills
- Calm, professional, and safety-conscious approach
- Passion for conservation, wildlife, and environmental education
- Stable career history with contactable references
- Comfortable living and working in a remote, unfenced Big 5 environment
Role 2: Lodge Manager
Candidate Responsibilities:
- Oversee all day-to-day lodge operations ensuring seamless guest experiences
- Manage Front of House, Housekeeping, Food & Beverage, and overall lodge presentation
- Lead and mentor lodge staff while maintaining high service and operational standards
- Handle guest relations, hosting, and resolve any operational challenges professionally
- Manage lodge administration, stock control, reporting, and departmental coordination
- Work closely with the guiding team and kitchen to ensure a cohesive guest experience
- Ensure lodge standards align with luxury 5-star hospitality expectations
Core Criteria:
- Previous experience managing a luxury 5-star safari lodge is essential
- Proven ability to lead and manage a lodge team within a remote environment
- Strong guest relations and hosting experience
- Excellent organisational, administrative, and communication skills
- Hands-on management style with high attention to detail
- Ability to remain calm under pressure and adapt operationally when needed
- Stable work history with excellent contactable references
- Comfortable living and working in a remote, unfenced Big 5 environment
This is a live-in position.
Salary: Trails Guide 18kpm and Lodge Manager R28-35kpm DOE
