Field Guiding Qualifications
in South Africa
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In South Africa, the government sets the framework for skills development and training. In guiding, Cathsseta (Culture, Art, Tourism, Hospitality, and Sport Sector Education and Training Authority) is the body that provides accreditation for field guiding and related industries. Cathsseta Nature Site Guide NQF2 is the essential qualification needed to guide in South Africa.
IFGA complements this by recognising and certifying the soft skills and guest-centred abilities that elevate guiding beyond formal qualifications. While IFGA is not a government accreditation or qualification, it adds a distinctive, globally relevant certification – highlighting a guide’s talent for creating immersive, meaningful, and memorable guest experiences transferable across borders.
The Benefits of IFGA
An IFGA certification helps guides stand out by recognising skills that go beyond traditional qualifications. It focuses on soft skills, practical expertise, and the ability to deliver immersive, guest-centred experiences that resonate across borders — skills that are universally valued and transferable worldwide.
IFGA certification adds a valuable layer of distinction by assessing how guides communicate, interpret, and connect with guests, as well as their situational awareness and professionalism. This makes IFGA-certified guides highly sought after by lodges and ecotourism operators who prioritise meaningful, consistent guest experiences.
In a recent industry survey, luxury lodges across Southern Africa expressed the need for a new guiding standard – one focused on the guest experience and soft skills. IFGA was developed in direct response to this demand, ensuring its certification aligns with what top lodges truly value.
By earning IFGA certification, guides meet this new standard and demonstrate their commitment
to ongoing professional growth, ethical guiding practices, and readiness to thrive in an evolving
global industry.
How do Field Guiding Qualifications Work?
REQUIRED TO REGISTER AS A SAFARI GUIDE IN SOUTH AFRICA
Cathsseta Nature Site Guide NQF2 is the qualification which allows a safari guide to register to guide in South Africa.
The central government provides the framework for skills training.
SAFARI GUIDE TRAINING PROVIDERS IN SOUTH AFRICA
Training providers are accredited by Cathsseta to give you the knowledge and skills needed to pass your theory and practical assessments and qualify as a guide.
GLOBAL RECOGNITION OF EXCELLENCE
The International Field Guide Association (IFGA) sets the highest global standards for safari guides.
“IFGA Certified” status is the gold standard for a professional guide, and opens the door to a wider range of career opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions
To legally work as an entry-level guide in South Africa, you need the Cathsseta Nature Site Guide NQF2 qualification. While some lodges may mention other providers like FGASA in their job postings, Cathsseta is the legal requirement for the industry.
What qualification do I need to guide in South Africa?
In addition to your Cathsseta qualification, you’ll need a valid first aid certificate, a Professional Driving Permit (PrDp) for vehicle-based guides, a valid driver’s licence, and registration with the National Department of Tourism (NDT).
What additional qualifications do I need to work as a field guide?
IFGA certification sets a global standard of excellence, distinguishing you from other guides with its focus on immersive guest experiences and ethical guiding practices. This certification can open doors to more prestigious opportunities and broaden your career prospects internationally.
How does IFGA certification benefit my career as a guide?
