Packed and ready to go, but wondering about daily life back at camp?
Keep reading to explore our accommodation, facilities, meals and commitment to sustainability. You will quickly get an idea of how you fit into the vibrant tapestry of our camp life experience.
The MORE Field Guide College Camp, permanently set up in the Marataba wilderness, is our students’ home-away-from-home and provides a welcoming environment for all to live and learn in.
Students are accommodated in two-sleeper tents, raised on wooden platforms which overlook the reserve. Every creature comfort of home awaits you here, including electricity, twin beds with luxe bedding, personal cupboards, an en-suite bathroom with shower, as well as a shaded deck- perfect for your study breaks.
The main camp area offers a leisure room, stocked with games equipment, as well as a PC and fully stocked library. The pool offers reprieve on sizzling summer days and ensures refreshing relaxation during your downtime. At camp, days end around the open-air boma and under a ceiling of stars, where a crackling fire serves as the perfect backdrop for gathering, connecting with your peers and swapping stories.
Students enjoy three wholesome meals daily, complete with beverages and dietary requirements are catered to (as much as possible in a remote bush setting). Additionally, they have access to limited Wi-Fi and cell phone reception in camp. Our college prioritises a homely atmosphere, ensuring students feel comfortable and cared for while experiencing the adventure of a lifetime.
At MORE Field Guide College, our mission extends beyond training top-quality guides; we aim to cultivate environmental awareness and drive sustainability initiatives.
From sourcing local produce to conserving water, we implement various systems to achieve our goals. Our greywater system collects and filters wastewater for reuse in irrigation, while seasonal vegetables grown in our greenhouse, minimising our carbon footprint.
We're committed to reducing plastic usage, eliminating clingfilm and with recycling stations setup all around camp, ensuring sustainable disposal. Transitioning to LED bulbs, to lower energy consumption and operating without air conditioning further reduce our environmental impact.
Sustainability is ingrained in our ethos, and we're dedicated to leading by example, inspiring all who join us to prioritise eco-friendly practices for after their time with us.
The career guide course entails six months of training under FGASA accredited trainers at the MORE Field Guide College, followed by a six–month placement at one of our lodges (or a partner property).
Upon completion of the first six months, candidates should have acquired:
FGASA Nature Site Guide (NQF2) qualification
Advanced Rifle Handling
A First-Aid certification
FGASA endorsed tracker qualification (track & sign, and trailing)
Accumulation of relevant mentored walking hours and entered for the FGASA Apprentice Trail Guide programme
Additional courses include, photography, snake handling, basic vehicle mechanics, and hospitality training at Marataba Safari Lodge
The six-month placement is conducted at one of MORE Family Collection’s five-star lodges or at a partner lodge:
Candidates are immersed into the MORE Field Guide team
Each candidate is appointed a personal mentor
The student will be in all field guide related operations and will join regular bushwalks, game drives and hosting of guests
After the 6-month placement, self-motivated individuals would have completed their FGASA Nature Site Guide (NQF4) theory component, and their regional birding qualification
The MORE Field Guide College mentoring programme is built on the expertise and dedication of our carefully selected mentors. These experienced field guides, chosen for their skill, knowledge, and teaching ability, form the backbone of our training system.
Each mentee is paired with a personal mentor who becomes their primary guide, advisor, and confidant throughout the six-month placement. Our mentors wear many hats – from trainers and advisors to sounding boards and role models. They are committed to nurturing each mentee’s individual growth, helping them develop their unique guiding style, and ensuring they meet predetermined goals. While this one-on-one relationship is crucial, our holistic approach also involves the entire guiding team, exposing mentees to diverse perspectives and techniques.
This combination of personalised mentorship and team support creates a rich, immersive learning environment for aspiring field guides.
Based at one of MORE Family Collection’s exclusive safari lodges, you will gain valuable bridging experience and have work-place training under the direction of some of the industry’s finest field guides.
Hone your guiding and hospitality skills and gain the confidence to independently take guests out on safaris.
This is where success stories, thrilling wildlife sightings and camp life anecdotes await. Dive into a world where learning never stops—from the wonders of nature and the bush to insights from our mentors and peers hailing from all corners of the globe. Your next, best chapter begins here!
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Explore our comprehensive FAQ section for answers to common enquiries.
Phone: +27 (0) 72 190 3326