A two-week theory and practical course in the African bush
This course is ideally suited to people wanting an introduction to conservation in southern Africa and those wishing to pursue a conservation orientated career, as well as wishing to improve their personal knowledge of wildlife. The course is also a perfect way to start or end your ACE placement, or is ideal as an unusual two-week break from the 9-5 routine. Set in a magnificent big five game reserve, most lectures take place out in the fresh air and practicals are carried out in the bushveld. The course is extensive and intensive and covers aspects of ecology such as animal identification, botany, animal behaviour and geology as well as rangering skills like 4×4 driving, dealing with dangerous game, snake identification and tracking. The course includes a sleep out in the African bush, aims to give students as much field exposure as possible and teaches a holistic view of the wilderness. It is conducted by a fully qualified and registered field guide. There is no entry level required for the course.
I wanted to know more about the wildlife that lived in South Africa and its conservation. I learnt so much more than I thought I would in just two weeks. We did a lot of tracking of the big five by foot and vehicle. The highlight of the course for me was camping out overnight watching out for the animals that may pass us; it was so exciting. I am so glad I went on the course, and I would definitely recommend it.”
Subjects Covered
- Bird, insect and tree identification
- Introduction to mammals
- Bushveld ecology
- Geology of Southern Africa
- Spoor identification of all game
- Practical tracking down of the big five
- Dangerous game and their behaviour
- Sleep-out in the bushveld
- Interpreting wildlife sounds
- Habits of animals
- Handling firearms
- Basic 4 × 4 Driving skills
- Conducting safaris and communication within the industry
- Basic snake identification
Recognition
On completion of the course, students will be required to complete both a practical and theoretical examination. Students who pass will be awarded a certificate of success. The course is accredited by FGASA (The Field Guide Association of South Africa).
It is an introductory course for students who may want to make a career of game ranger guiding.
Accommodation
A maximum of 10 persons can be accommodated per training course to enable the training guide to give individual attention to each student.
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Sleeping accommodation during the course:
- Comfortable accommodation in a bush camp situated in a big five game reserve.
- Around a camp fire under the stars in a big five game reserve.
Prices and Duration
The cost for the course is £1095 and includes full tuition, all accommodation and meals. Food is provided and is prepared by the students on a rotational basis. Transfers to and from the course venue are not included but can be arranged for you. A non-refundable deposit of £100.00 is needed to confirm a booking with the balance due 8 weeks before commencement of the course. A reduced rate for the course is available to volunteers who are also joining a project as a volunteer. Please contact us for more information.
Start dates for 2009
- 7th April
- 19th May
- 30th June
- 18th August
- 8th September
- 3rd November
Start dates for 2010
- 23rd February
- 18th May
- 27th July
- 17th August
- 7th September
- 2nd November
All students will be required to sign an indemnity before starting the course.
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Duration: 2 weeks
Cost: £1095 (2009) £1295 (2010) – includes full tuition, all meals and accommodation. We also do a package cost of £2150 (2009) £2350 (2010) which includes return flights from London and transfers from Johannesburg. As part of a split placement with a conservation project, we can offer this course at a reduced rate, please contact us for more information.
Accommodation: Comprises dormitory style long houses with shared ablution facilities and traditional chalet like structures called Rondavels, with en-suite facilities. Electricity is available throughout the camp, with thatched open roofed areas and recreation areas.
Time of year: Start dates throughout the year (see dates above). Courses are confirmed at least 8 weeks before departure.
