ABOUT THE COURSE

This FGASA endorsed, CATHSSETA accredited course is the entry level qualification for
field guiding which encompasses vehicle-based guiding in dangerous and non-dangerous +27 (0)13 752 2532
games areas. enquiries@ecotraining.co.za
www.ecotraining.co.za
Once qualified, the guide is able to identify and interpret biodiverse elements of the natural environment.
The guide will be able to conduct game drives for guests in a limited geographical area. The syllabus covers a broad spectrum of subjects including 4x4 Game
Drive vehicle skills specific for game viewing, species identification and tracking to mention a few. Time on this course is split between at least two of our
remote wilderness camps, maximizing exposure to different areas, wildlife, biomes and biodiversity. Although this course forms the foundation for a career in
field guiding (and many other wildlife orientated careers), this course is suitable for those wanting to simply immerse themselves in nature, as well as build up
their own personal knowledge and skills. Upon successful completion of the course, participants can enroll for the FGASA Apprentice Trails Guide Course and
specialise in ‘on-foot’ guiding. Refer to the EcoTraining Trails Guide course section and relevant requirements.

Certification and Accreditation

EcoTraining is a FGASA registered and endorsed
training provider. We are also accredited with
CATHSSETA (Tourism and Hospitality and Sport
Ed u c atio n Tr ain in g Au th o r i t y ) fo r t h e NQF2
N atu re G u id e Site Q u alif ic at i o n (Fi e l d Gu i d e ) ,
YOU COULD GRADUATE WITH
1. CATHSSETA Nature Site Guide (NQF2) Qualification
2. FGASA Apprentice Field Guide Certificate
3. EcoTraining Certificate of Participation

ECOTRAINING th e re by m e e tin g th e re q u ire d s t a n d a rd .

FGASA and CATHSSETA are the two bodies primarily responsible for regulating standards within

FIELD GUIDE
the guide training industry in South Africa. For the EcoTraining Field Guide course, EcoTraining will
register students with FGASA and CATHSSETA. Students need not arrange this themselves before

COURSE
coming on the course. Participants will have the opportunity to attempt their EcoTraining Field Guide
Certificate and FGASA Field Guide / NQF 2 qualification, by successfully completing a theoretical and
Mashatu Camp
Makuleke Camp practical assessment. These assessments will be conducted by our instructors (who are accredited
BOTSWANA Selati Camp Assessors, endorsed by FGASA) at our camps, during the course.
Karongwe Camp
NAMIBIA NOTE: PrDP (Professional Drivers Permit) most lodges require that students have a PrDP as this allow
DURATION
OR Tambo Pridelands Camp them to transport groups of people in a company vehicle. Please understand that participants under the
International Airport

55-Days
Johannesburg age of 21 years and foreigners without a study visa are not eligible to apply for a South African PrDP.

Pongola Camp

LOCATION SOUTH
AFRICA
Course takes place between two to three of the following
camps depending on calendar:
• Selati Game Reserve, South Africa
• Karongwe Game Reserve, South Africa
Mashatu Camp Makuleke Camp
• Makuleke Concession, northern Kruger Park, South Africa
• Pridelands Conservancy, Greater Kruger Park, South Africa
• Pongola Game Reserve, South Africa
• Mashatu Game Reserve, Botswana

PREREQUISITES
Pongola Camp Karongwe Camp Pridelands Camp Selati Camp
• Fit and able to walk for at least 2km.
• Be over the age of 18 years and older unaccompanied by Accommodation
an adult. The sleeping arrangements at all our camps consist of two people sharing per tent.
• Be in possession of a valid driver’s license ((preferred SOUTH Single requests are required to pay double rates. Women and men do not share
SUDAN
manual gear shift) tents unless booked as a couple.

• Current First Aid Certificate (or be prepared to obtain one). Meals

KENYA
FGASA will only issue your FGASA Apprentice Field Guide UGANDA
Mara Training Centre
Mara Training Centre Camp Early morning wake-up : tea, coffee, biscuits, fresh fruit and cereal
Certificate if you have a valid first aid qualification. Brunch after activity : cooked breakfast and fruit salad
Jomo Kenyatta
DRC International Airport Afternoon tea : light lunch / sandwiches
Nairobi
Dinner : balanced, warm plated meal with meat, vegetables and salad
TANZANIA