Online Trails Guide Course

This programme focuses on the knowledge of trails (walking) guiding, which will be taught through interactive sessions and real-life videos from the field as part of the online FGASA Trails Guide course.

Exciting opportunity

EcoTraining brings you an exciting new learning opportunity – a first in Trails Guiding. A chance to learn how to interact safely with wild animals from the comfort of your home.

This online wildlife program focuses on the knowledge of trails (walking) guiding – all of this will be taught through interactive sessions and real-life videos from the field as part of the online FGASA Trails Guide course.

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What to expect from the Online Trails Guide Course

Diverse range of subjects

This course covers a diverse range of subjects including: Introduction To The Apprentice Trails Guide Course; Navigation And Orientation; Weapon Handling For Walking In Dangerous Game Areas; Animal Tracking And Track Identification; Conducting Guided Walks; How To Approach Potentially Dangerous Animals On Foot Safely; Dangerous Animal Knowledge And Behaviour; Basic Incident Management.

First step in achieving the Trails qualification

The programme covers all the theoretical components required to certify as an FGASA-endorsed Apprentice Trails Guide. This is your first step in achieving the Trails qualification. By attending this online programme you automatically qualify for a discounted practical course following the online component.

This course is open to anyone who is interested in becoming a qualified Trails Guide.

Sneak peek of the course

Watch the video to get a sneak peek of the course and its setup.

Certification & accreditation

EcoTraining is a FGASA-endorsed training provider. In addition, EcoTraining is also a CATHSSETA (Sector Education Training Authority) accredited training provider.

FGASA (Field Guides Association of Southern Africa) represents individual tourist guides; nature, culture, and adventure guides; trackers; and organisations involved in offering professional guiding services to members of the public.

Participants who successfully complete the online component will be able to enrol in the 28-day Trails Guide Course at a discounted rate.

What you can expect to graduate with

Entry level requirements

Expert instructors

Online Trails Guide participants will receive lectures from a diverse range of specialist instructors. Course includes: in-depth coverage of the Apprentice Trails Guide modules; Theory reviews/Quizzes; Live Q&A with the lecturer and other participants; Live lectures will range between one hour and two hours, with a live Q & A session after each session.

Course dates

18 March – 22 April 2025

FAQ about the Online Trails Guide Course

Why should I take the Online Trails Guide Course?

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

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

Tagged FGASA, online course, trails guide, walking guide