Our partner: Ecotraining

EcoTraining is a leading South African provider of field guide and wildlife training courses, renowned for its rigorous standards in the safari industry. Their diverse portfolio includes accredited guide courses, advanced nature tours (customizable on request), and gap year or sabbatical programs.

EcoTraining conducts all its courses in unfenced camps across premier wildlife areas: Makuleke, Selati, Karongwe, Pridelands, and Pongola in South Africa, as well as Mashatu in Botswana and Mara in Kenya. These locations offer an ideal setting for immersive game drives and walks into the wilderness.

Every EcoTraining course, regardless of its length or focus, is designed to foster knowledge and personal growth. Certain career-oriented courses also provide the opportunity to earn an official FGASA certificate (Field Guides Association of Southern Africa), a crucial credential for anyone aspiring to a professional career in Southern Africa’s safari industry.

What is special about travelling with EcoTraining?

Traveling with EcoTraining offers an unparalleled journey into the African wilderness, characterized by the deep expertise of its guides, meticulous organization, and a profound connection to nature. EcoTraining’s guides are not only masters of wildlife knowledge but also excel in bushcraft, allowing them to lead safe, educational, and deeply immersive experiences. Whether tracking elusive animals on foot or navigating the savannah in 4x4s, their guidance ensures that each encounter with nature is meaningful and memorable.

The courses and experiences are conducted in unfenced camps within premier wildlife areas, offering guests raw and unfiltered access to the African bush. The organization’s attention to detail is evident in every aspect, from the careful planning of daily activities to the expert handling of unexpected situations, ensuring that each guest can fully engage with the natural environment. With over two decades of experience in the safari industry, EcoTraining’s ability to blend safety, education, and adventure makes them a standout choice for those seeking an authentic and transformative wildlife experience​.

What is the philosophy behind EcoTraining?

The philosophy behind EcoTraining revolves around reconnecting people with nature through immersive and inspirational learning experiences. Their vision is to become a global leader in environmental education, driven by a commitment to conservation and a deep appreciation for Africa's natural wonders. EcoTraining's mission is to cultivate knowledgeable and passionate guardians of nature, particularly by training professional safari guides and educating communities about the importance of wilderness preservation.

The organization emphasizes the importance of understanding the natural processes that sustain ecosystems, with the goal of inspiring participants to apply this knowledge in their everyday lives to protect the planet. By working closely with communities across Africa and beyond, EcoTraining aims to share environmental education with future generations, fostering a global movement of conservation-minded individuals who are dedicated to preserving the world's wilderness areas​.

What programmes does EcoTraining offer?

EcoTraining offers a diverse range of programs designed to cater to different interests and career goals in wildlife and nature conservation. Their Career Courses are accredited by leading associations like FGASA and CATHSSETA, providing professional training for those looking to pursue a career in the safari industry. These include comprehensive programs like the 1-year Professional Field Guide Course and the 55-day Field Guide Course.

For nature lovers and enthusiasts, EcoTraining provides Wildlife Enthusiast Courses such as the 7-day Birding in the Bush Course and the 14-day Masai Mara EcoQuest, which allow participants to deepen their understanding of wildlife and ecology in immersive settings across Southern Africa.

Additionally, EcoTraining offers Online Courses, including the Online Field Guide Course, Online Tracking Enthusiast Course, and On-Demand Field Guide Course. These courses provide flexible, interactive learning experiences accessible from anywhere in the world.

Lastly, their Experiences programs include customized wildlife courses and gap year adventures, tailored to offer unique, hands-on experiences in Africa’s most biodiverse regions​.