The South African National Parks (SANParks), in partnership with the Culture, Arts, Tourism, Hospitality and Sport Sector Education and Training Authority (CATHSSETA), is expected to open applications for the Field Guiding Skills Programme 2026 intake. This programme is designed to equip unemployed South African youth with professional guiding skills required within national parks, game reserves, and the broader eco-tourism industry.
The Field Guiding Skills Programme forms part of SANParks’ ongoing commitment to conservation, skills development, and youth empowerment. Successful candidates will receive structured training that combines theoretical learning with practical, hands-on experience in a real conservation environment.
Programme Overview
The Field Guiding Skills Programme focuses on developing entry-level professional field guides who can work responsibly within protected areas. Participants are trained to understand biodiversity, wildlife behavior, conservation ethics, and visitor safety while gaining customer service and communication skills essential for tourism.
The programme is aligned with CATHSSETA occupational standards and is aimed at preparing learners for employment opportunities within SANParks, private game lodges, nature reserves, and eco-tourism operations.
Fields Offered
Participants enrolled in the SANParks CATHSSETA Field Guiding Skills Programme will receive training in the following key areas:
- Field guiding and interpretation
- Nature conservation principles
- Flora and fauna identification
- Animal behavior and tracking
- Environmental education
- Tourist safety and risk management
- Customer service and visitor experience
- Basic first aid and guiding ethics
The training is structured to ensure learners are competent, responsible, and environmentally conscious guides who understand both conservation and tourism requirements.
Programme Duration and Location
The programme typically runs for several months and is hosted at selected SANParks reserves across South Africa. Learners are placed in national parks where they gain direct exposure to wildlife, conservation operations, and tourism activities under supervision.
Stipend
Learners accepted into the Field Guiding Skills Programme will receive a monthly stipend to assist with basic living expenses during the training period. The stipend is expected to range between R3,500 and R4,500 per month, depending on programme funding and location. The stipend is not a salary but financial support to enable participation in the programme.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants interested in the SANParks CATHSSETA Field Guiding Skills Programme 2026 must meet the following minimum requirements:
- Must be a South African citizen
- Must be unemployed at the time of application
- Aged between 18 and 35 years
- Minimum Grade 12 (Matric) certificate
- English communication skills (spoken and written)
- Strong interest in conservation, wildlife, and tourism
- Willingness to work outdoors in natural environments
- Physically fit and able to cope with field conditions
- No criminal record
- Preference may be given to candidates from communities surrounding national parks
Applicants with a background or interest in tourism, environmental studies, or nature conservation may have an added advantage.
Closing Date
The anticipated closing date for the SANParks CATHSSETA Field Guiding Skills Programme 2026 intake is January 2026. Applicants are advised to prepare their documents early and submit applications well before the closing date, as late applications are usually not considered.
Career Opportunities After Completion
Upon successful completion of the programme, learners will have improved employability in the tourism and conservation sectors. Possible career paths include:
- Field Guide
- Assistant Nature Conservator
- Environmental Education Officer
- Safari Guide
- Eco-tourism Assistant
While permanent employment is not guaranteed, the skills and accredited training significantly improve access to opportunities within SANParks and the wider tourism industry.
Conclusion
The SANParks CATHSSETA Field Guiding Skills Programme 2026 provides a valuable opportunity for young South Africans who are passionate about wildlife, conservation, and tourism. Through structured training, practical exposure, and financial support, the programme plays an important role in developing skilled guides while promoting environmental stewardship and sustainable tourism across South Africa.
EMAIL : ANP.vacancies@sanparks.org
reference: FGTMNP-12/2025