South African National Parks invites suitably qualified applicants to apply for the Field Guiding Skills Programme at Kruger National Park. The closing date for applications is 26 January 2026.
If you are a young, unemployed person living near Kruger National Park and you dream of working in nature, wildlife, and conservation, this opportunity could be the turning point in your life. SANParks, together with Cathsseta, is offering a rare chance to gain real skills in field guiding while earning a monthly stipend. This programme is designed for youth who want to start a long-term career in conservation and eco-tourism.
This is not just a short course. It is a structured skills programme that runs for six months, followed by a fixed-term contract of one year. While SANParks does not promise permanent employment, the experience, training, and exposure gained during this programme can open doors in the conservation industry.
SANParks is the leading conservation authority in South Africa. It manages more than 3.7 million hectares of protected land across 20 national parks. Its work is guided by the National Environmental Management: Protected Areas Act, which focuses on protecting nature while creating opportunities for people.
SANParks plays a key role in wildlife protection, tourism, environmental education, and community upliftment. This programme is part of that mission, giving young people from nearby communities a chance to gain skills and enter the conservation space.
The Field Guiding Skills Programme is aimed at unemployed youth who want to work as field guides or in related conservation roles. During the programme, learners receive training that helps them understand wildlife, nature, safety, guiding principles, and professional conduct.
The programme runs for six months and includes both learning and practical exposure. After completing the six months, learners may be offered a further fixed-term contract for one year, depending on operational needs.
Learners accepted into the programme will receive a monthly stipend of R2 695.00. This helps cover basic needs while attending the programme. It is important to note that this is a skills programme, not permanent employment.
The programme is based at Kruger National Park. Learners must be willing to attend training at a site away from their hometown for at least four months. All training-related expenses during this period will be covered by SANParks.
This is an important requirement, as the programme involves full-time commitment and physical presence at the training site.
Applicants must live in a village or area within 1 to 100 kilometres from Kruger National Park. Proof of residence is required and will be checked.
Applicants must be under the age of 35 at the time of registration with Cathsseta.
Only South African citizens may apply. You must have completed Grade 12 to qualify for this programme.
Applicants must have a clear criminal record. You must also not have previously benefited from any SANParks skills programme, learnership, internship, or similar opportunity.
Field guiding is physically demanding. Applicants must be physically fit and able to handle outdoor work in natural environments.
You must be willing to stay away from home for at least four months during training. SANParks will cover expenses related to the training site, but personal commitment is essential.
Your application will only be considered complete if you follow both steps of the application process. Missing documents or steps may result in disqualification.
Applicants must submit the following certified documents:
Make sure all documents are clear, certified, and up to date.
You must complete the online application form using the official link provided by SANParks. Look for the option that clearly says Apply for the Field Guiding Skills Programme – Kruger National Park and complete the form fully.
Online application link:
https://forms.office.com/r/PwdbwmBjz4
After completing the online form, you must email all required documents to the official SANParks email address:
Your application will only be considered if both the online form and the emailed documents are submitted.
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. If you do not receive feedback, it means your application was not successful. Make sure your contact details are correct and active.
For questions related to the programme, you may contact the HCM Office:
Contact Person: Lunghile Mhlanga
Telephone: 013 735 4128
This programme offers more than just training. It offers exposure, discipline, real-world experience, and a chance to build a future in conservation. If you love nature, want to work outdoors, and are serious about building a career, this opportunity at Kruger National Park could be the first step.
Apply before 26 January 2026 and give yourself a chance to enter one of South Africa’s most respected conservation environments.
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