Our partner: African Guide Academy

African Guide Academy (AGA), formerly known as the Okavango Guiding School, is the first private nature guide training institution registered in Botswana and accredited by both the Field Guide Association of Southern Africa (FGASA) and the Botswana Qualifications Authority (BQA).

The African Guide Academy runs its training camp in Kwapa, in the heart of the Okavango Delta. The region is undoubtedly one of the most spectacular wilderness areas in Africa. The unfenced camp of the same name blends harmoniously into nature and uses only solar energy.

From FGASA/BQA accredited field or trails guide training to exciting tracking adventures, each AGA course offers participants the opportunity to immerse themselves into the Okavango Delta’s unique nature, to observe wild animals in their natural habitat and to gain a deeper understanding of the ecosystems of Southern Africa. Highly qualified and experienced guides always provide support and profound expertise.

What is special about travelling with African Guide Academy?

Traveling with the African Guide Academy (AGA) offers a unique and unparalleled adventure. Situated in the Okavango Delta, AGA's guides are trained in one of the world’s most diverse and pristine ecosystems. This ensures that every safari experience is led by highly knowledgeable and skilled guides who have undergone rigorous, hands-on training. The academy’s deep commitment to conservation and education means that travelers not only witness breathtaking wildlife but also gain a deeper understanding of the delicate balance within these ecosystems.

What is the philosophy behind African Guide Academy?

The African Guide Academy (AGA) offers a unique training experience centered around the philosophy of immersive, high-quality education in the heart of Africa’s wilderness. Located in the pristine Okavango Delta, a UNESCO World Heritage site, AGA provides a diverse learning environment enriched by the area's stunning natural beauty and abundant wildlife.

AGA emphasizes the importance of biodiversity in guide training. Their home base, Kwapa Training Camp, boasts a variety of ecosystems and species, ensuring students gain hands-on experience with Africa’s iconic wildlife. This setting fosters a profound connection to nature, which is essential for effective conservation and guiding.

AGA’s programs are designed to exceed the standards of other guide training schools, focusing on comprehensive education, practical skills, and a deep understanding of ecosystems. This approach prepares graduates to be knowledgeable, skilled, and passionate guides, equipped to contribute to wildlife conservation and eco-tourism across Africa.

What programmes does African Guide Academy offer?

The African Guide Academy offers various guide and nature courses to wilderness enthusiasts eager to broaden their knowledge. The AGA courses impart essential nature and outdoor skills and, depending on the course, provide the opportunity to acquire an official FGASA or BQA qualification. Their most popular programs include:

#1 Nature Guide Course: A comprehensive course focusing on the ecosystems and wildlife of Africa, providing hands-on experience in the wilderness.

#2 Trails Guide Course: A 14 or 28-day program that teaches in-depth knowledge of walking and navigating through the African wilderness.

#3 Track and Sign Course: A 7-day course focusing on the ancient skill of tracking and interpreting wildlife behavior.

#4 Specialist Birding Course: Co-instructed by top birding guides, combining bird ringing and guiding skills.

#5 Private Training Course: Customized training for individuals or groups focusing on specific aspects like walking guiding or bird guiding.

These courses are designed for those deeply curious about nature and eager to gain a deeper understanding of themselves and the African wilderness. If you want to learn about wilderness and become a guide, the African Guide Academy is the right place to be.