55-day Field Guide Course

This CATHSSETA-accredited course is the foundation for a career in professional field guiding, preparing you for vehicle-based guiding in both Big 5 and other wildlife environments. The course is also endorsed by FGASA.

Maximum exposure

Be exposed to a variety of natural working conditions at good value for money.

Time on this course is split between at least two of our remote wilderness camps, maximising exposure to different areas, wildlife, biomes and biodiversity.

This course lays the foundation for a career in field guiding (and many other wildlife-related careers), but it is also suitable for anyone wanting to gain knowledge and skills while immersing themselves in nature.

Upon successful completion of the course, participants can apply for the EcoTraining 28-day Trails Guide Course (FGASA Apprentice Trails Guide status) and specialise in “on-foot” guiding.

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What to expect from the 55-day Field Guide Course

A variety of natural working conditions

Thanks to EcoTraining’s vast network, you’ll be exposed to a variety of natural working conditions, allowing you to gain practical experience and put your newfound skills to the test. You’ll cover an exciting range of subjects, including planning game drives and planning walks, navigation and orientation, radio procedures, ecology, reptiles, geology and soil, amphibians, fish, mammals, weather and climate, anticipating animal behaviour, plant communities, plant identification and uses, and identification and ecology of invertebrates.

Build relationships and connections

As you explore the natural world and deepen your knowledge in the subjects that interest you most, you’ll also have the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals and build relationships that will last a lifetime. Whether you’re starting a career in field guiding or simply expanding your understanding and appreciation of nature, this course is the ideal place to begin.

Where the course takes place

The 55-day Field Guide Course is split between at least two of our EcoTraining Camps in Southern Africa.

Okavango Delta Training Camp, Selinda Spillway

Set within the private Selinda Reserve, where the Okavango Delta meets the Linyanti and Kwando ...

Greater Kruger Timbavati, South Africa

Timbavati is located in the Greater Kruger area, within a private nature reserve that borders ...

Greater Kruger Balule Pridelands, South Africa

Situated in the scenic Limpopo province of South Africa, this camp offers sights of a ...

Kruger National Park Makuleke, South Africa

Situated between the Limpopo and Luvuvhu Rivers in the northern section of the well-known Kruger ...

Mashatu Land of the Giants, Botswana

Our camp has access to over 12 000 hectares of bushveld, ranging from the open ...

Karongwe Game Reserve, South Africa

Karongwe Camp is on the banks of the Karongwe River, southwest of the Kruger National ...

The benefits of taking the 55-day Field Guide Course

Imagine being able to turn your passion for nature and wildlife into a fulfilling career – that’s exactly what this FGASA-endorsed, CATHSSETA-accredited course can do for you! As the entry-level qualification for field guiding, this course provides the perfect foundation for anyone looking to explore a career in vehicle-based guiding in both dangerous and non-dangerous game areas.

With this qualification under your belt, you’ll be able to confidently identify and interpret biodiverse elements of the natural environment and conduct game drives for guests in a limited geographical area. The syllabus covers a broad spectrum of subjects, including 4×4 Game Drive vehicle skills specific for game viewing, species identification, and tracking, to name just a few.

But the benefits of this course go far beyond just gaining a qualification. As you split your time between at least two of our remote wilderness camps, you’ll be immersed in a world of breathtaking natural beauty, with exposure to different areas, wildlife, biomes and biodiversity. And as you learn from highly qualified instructors and connect with like-minded individuals, you’ll also develop the confidence and skills you need to succeed in your future career.

Certification & accreditation

We will assist you by registering you with FGASA and CATHSSETA.

What you can expect to graduate with

Entry level requirements

The learner needs to be able to communicate effectively in spoken and written English.
Participants need to be older than 18 years old.
Fit and able to walk for at least 2km.
While a valid driver’s license (preferably manual) is recommended, it is not a prerequisite for this course.
Current First Aid Certificate (or be prepared to obtain one).

What to pack

We’ve put together a useful packing list for you so you know what you need to bring on this course. Everything you’ll need to be comfortable and make the most of your time in the African bush.

We’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Course dates

2026:
03 July 2026 – 26 August 2026 (Mashatu, Land of the Giants & Greater Kruger, Balule, Pridelands)
05 August 2026 – 28 September 2026 (Karongwe & Greater Kruger, Balule, Pridelands)
14 September 2026 – 07 November 2026 (Karongwe, Greater Kruger, Balule, Pridelands)
12 October 2026 – 05 December 2026 (Kruger National Park, Makuleke & Karongwe)

FAQ about the 55-day Field Guide Course

What is a 55-day field guide course?

A field guide connects guests with the natural and cultural environment, taking on an important educational role. Guides lead guests through nature in a game viewer, interpreting the remarkable details and hidden stories of the wilderness, and acting as a bridge between guests and the environment. This 55-day field guide course equips students with the knowledge and skills to confidently conduct game drives across a range of wildlife environments.

Why should I take the 55-day Field Guide Course?

This course provides the perfect foundation for anyone looking to explore a career in vehicle-based guiding in both dangerous and non-dangerous game areas. With this qualification under your belt, you’ll be able to confidently identify and interpret biodiverse elements of the natural environment and conduct game drives for guests in a limited geographical area.

Do I need a PrDP to enroll for this course?

While a PrDP is not required to enroll for this course, most lodges require that qualified guides have a PrDP as this allows them to transport groups of people in a company vehicle. Please understand that participants under 21 years and foreigners without a study visa are not eligible to apply for a South African PrDP.

How do I become a registered guide (NDT) if I am an international student?

Non-South African citizens must have a valid working permit granting them permission to work as a tourist guide to register with the South African Department of Tourism (NDT).

How do I obtain a work permit as a non-South African citizen?

Work permits or temporary visas for work are issued by the Department of Home Affairs.

General Work Visas are issued to foreigners where it has been proven beyond reasonable doubt that South African citizens and permanent residents with the relevant qualifications or skills and experience are not available for appointment.

Have more questions? Check out our general FAQ page or get in touch for more information.

Student Loan Partners

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Testimonials

“Because the camp is unfenced, I really love waking up and seeing what animal tracks where left during the night. Waking up with an elephant standing at my tent was a bit scary, but also very cool. The whole experience here has been fantastic. A word of advice: If you know on the inside it’s for you, do it. Listen to your gut and trust it. Being here has given me peace of mind. It makes me happy and truly soothes my soul.”

Sam BakelAustralia

"During the course I rediscovered my love for birding - something that I have enjoyed since I was little - and one of my biggest highlights was learning tracking and trailing with Renias Mhlongo. It put me out of my comfort zone and really challenged me, which I loved. Being part of a group of all different cultures and making new friends has been really special. After the course ends, I’m definitely planning on continuing my career in guiding, where ever it may be."

Rufus CottrelUK

"I already feel I can go into the industry with a contribution to add, thanks to this course. It all seemed impossible before, but now it’s real and feasible. I love the course, the camps, the instructors and I am learning so much and having so much fun too. We have built a beautiful community here, all with a common goal and wanting the same things.”

Liam MueenuddinUSA

“The online course teaches skills that can be translated to wherever you are working. You really don’t need any background knowledge to do the course, as the modules build on each other. The course opens your eyes to the earth itself. I believe it’s important to have an understanding of nature, which is what EcoTraining offers.”

Kaitlyn CampbellUSA

"It has been so refreshing to be somewhere where you live by the sun and weather and not your watch - to totally switch off from the world and not know what will happen next. I have had so many highlights - from seeing hyena on foot, having lions and rhino walk around our vehicle, hearing an elephant right outside my tent and even seeing incredible bush paintings - every week gets better."

Bert JansenBelgium

"What an amazing month! Friends made for life and I learnt so much . Thank you to the three instructors Norman, Tsundzukani and Kitsiso - you are all world class trackers and instructors. EcoTraining is lucky to have you. Thank you everyone for one of the best months of my life."

Brennon KnottSouth Africa

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From the field on the 55-day Field Guide Course

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