Apprentice Trails Guide, South Africa

Embark on an unforgettable journey through South Africa's wilderness by becoming an Apprentice Trails Guide. This course offers a rare opportunity to deeply connect with nature while honing your skills as a trails guide and tracker in the heart of the African bush.

Set within the breathtaking Timbavati Private Game Reserve, which borders the iconic Kruger National Park, this 28-day adventure is designed for aspiring walking guides and passionate nature enthusiasts alike. The course is accredited by FGASA and promises an immersive experience in one of the world’s most spectacular natural settings.

Activities of your Apprentice Trails Guide Course

This course provides an in-depth introduction to the skills and knowledge required to navigate the African bush as a trails guide. Under the guidance of experienced instructors, participants will learn how to track game, handle a rifle, and understand the behavior of the diverse wildlife within the Timbavati Private Game Reserve. The course also includes a 3-night Primitive Trail, where participants will experience the raw beauty of the wilderness by sleeping under the stars and navigating through untamed landscapes without the support of vehicles.

Participants will gain practical experience in assessing and responding to various situations in the wild, preparing them for both the practical and theoretical aspects of trail guiding.

Arrival and orientation

Participants can fly into Eastgate Airport (Hoedspruit) or Johannesburg, with shuttle transfers available to the camp in Timbavati. Upon arrival, you will be welcomed and briefed on bush safety, followed by an introductory walk to get familiar with the surroundings. This transfer is included in the course fee and takes about one hour. The orientation will ensure that all participants are prepared for the immersive experience ahead.

Accommodation and board at the Apprentice Trails Guide Course

Accommodation during the course is provided in authentic tented camps on the Bateleur property. These unfenced camps are nestled under jackalberry trees, offering a close-to-nature experience without electricity, Wi-Fi, or mobile signal. Each dome tent accommodates two participants, with basic amenities such as mattresses and pillows provided. Participants should bring their own sleeping bags. Sanitary facilities are basic, featuring long-drop toilets and canvas bush showers with views of the surrounding landscape.

Meals are prepared by a camp cook and enjoyed together in the communal tent, fostering a sense of community among participants.

Leisure time

The course is intensive, with long hours spent walking and training, but there is still time to relax and bond with fellow participants. Free time can be used to rest, reflect on your experiences, or simply enjoy the tranquil environment. The sense of camaraderie developed during these moments adds to the overall richness of the course.

The region of Timbavati Private Game Reserve

Timbavati Private Game Reserve is a pristine wilderness area that shares an unfenced border with Kruger National Park, allowing for the free movement of wildlife. This region is renowned for its biodiversity, including the famous Big Five and a wide variety of other species. As a participant, you'll have the rare opportunity to explore this natural paradise, gaining a deeper understanding of its ecosystems and the importance of conservation.

You wanna know more about the Apprentice Trails Guide course, you can find detailed information here.