Distinction and Dedication: South Africa’s Next-Gen Safari Guides Shine During Tourism Month

As South Africa celebrates Tourism Month this September, Extraordinary Resorts Management proudly recognises the exceptional achievements of its trainee guides at Mabula Private Game Reserve. From excelling in national exams to earning full guiding qualifications, these milestones highlight both individual dedication and Extraordinary’s commitment to shaping the future of South African safari tourism.

At Mabula, trainees achieved an impressive 90% pass rate at distinction level in their Field Guides Association of Southern Africa (FGASA) NQF2 exams, well above the benchmark of 75%. Under the guidance of Head Guide Piet Mogotlane, these results showcase not only the trainees’ knowledge and practical skills, but also Mabula Private Game Reserve’s success in developing guides of professional excellence, ready to lead with confidence in the bush.

Beyond professional achievement, the trainee programme makes a meaningful social impact. The trainees are drawn from local communities surrounding Mabula Private Game Reserve, and the Reserve sponsors their training, providing a clear pathway to employment as fully qualified safari guides. Through this initiative, Mabula Private Game Reserve is helping to create sustainable livelihoods, empower local talent, and support the broader socio-economic development of the region.

The Mabula Private Game Reserve trainees are also preparing for their practical FGASA assessments taking place in September, where they will demonstrate their ability to lead safaris, manage guest interactions, apply ecological knowledge, and uphold ethical guiding practices. Preparations include mentorship, mock assessments, and practical sessions focusing on storytelling, interpretation, and hosting skills.

Meanwhile, Tshepo Loni, the safari guide at Kingfisher Villa Suites, also situated within Mabula Private Game Reserve, reached a key career milestone by passing his FGASA Trails Guide exam. This specialised qualification enables him to lead walking safaris safely and professionally, emphasising tracking, wildlife interpretation on foot, guest safety, and minimal environmental impact.

Tshepo is now completing a mentorship programme, accumulating at least 150 guided hours under an experienced Trails Guide. He is refining skills such as reading spoor, navigating the bush, interpreting wildlife stories for guests, managing emergencies, and leading immersive walking safaris. Once completed, Tshepo will be fully qualified to offer safe, up-close, and unforgettable bush experiences.

Tourism Month, alongside Heritage Day on 24 September, celebrates South Africa’s natural and cultural treasures. Guides play a critical role in protecting these assets while sharing their significance with visitors from around the world. The achievements of the Mabula and Kingfisher Villa Suites guides exemplify this mission, reflecting Extraordinary’s dedication to conservation, guest excellence, and nurturing the next generation of tourism leaders.

“These achievements are not only milestones for the Reserve, but for South Africa’s safari industry as a whole,” says Maralize Mulder, Marketing Manager at Extraordinary. “We are proud to be producing guides who can deliver world-class guest experiences while protecting and celebrating our heritage, and to be creating real opportunities for young people from local communities around Mabula.”

Author: Maryke Willis