Expedition Guide Position
Waterkloof, Pretoria, 0181, South Africa · Freelance · Guiding & Activities
FREELANCE EXPEDITION GUIDE Ecolife Expeditions is looking for an experienced, reliable and enthusiastic Freelance to join our guiding team. We currently require guide availability for: 22 November – 13 December 2026 17 January – 31 January 2027 Following a successful assessment and introduction to the Ecolife team, additional expedition dates and programmes may become available. THE POSITION This is an freelance guiding position for experienced guides who are available to work on selected expedition dates rather than requiring a permanent full-time position. Ecolife Expeditions runs educational and practical programmes in wildlife conservation, veterinary science, marine biology and environmental education. Our expeditions involve international students, veterinary professionals and guests, and require guides who are confident, adaptable and able to take responsibility for the day-to-day running of an expedition. The successful candidate will play an important role in ensuring that each expedition operates safely, professionally and according to the Ecolife programme. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES The guide will be responsible for leading and assisting with Ecolife expeditions in accordance with the programme itinerary and operational requirements. Responsibilities include ensuring the safety, comfort and wellbeing of students and guests throughout the expedition; safely driving expedition vehicles and carrying out vehicle checks; assisting with accommodation, meals, activities, equipment and daily logistics; and providing guests with an informative, engaging and professional guiding experience. The guide will also assist with wildlife, conservation and educational activities as required by each programme, while ensuring that all Ecolife equipment is used correctly, maintained and properly accounted for. Daily communication is an important part of the role. Guides are expected to take and submit daily photographs, wildlife sightings and activity updates for Ecolife HQ and expedition communication channels. Any vehicle damage, mechanical problems, equipment damage or other operational issues must be reported to Ecolife management as soon as possible. The successful candidate will represent Ecolife Expeditions professionally at all times and be expected to maintain a high standard of guest service. REQUIREMENTS The successful candidate should have previous experience as a field guide, expedition guide or in a similar wildlife or outdoor position. A valid C1 driver's license is very important for this position. A valid Professional Driving Permit (PDP) is advantageous and may be required depending on the vehicle and programme. Experience driving larger vehicles and/or expedition vehicles will be an advantage. Candidates should have a good knowledge of South African wildlife, conservation and natural history, together with strong communication and interpersonal skills. You must be comfortable working with international students from different backgrounds and be able to adapt to a variety of expedition environments. The role requires a willingness to camp, work long days and undertake physically demanding activities when required by the programme. Candidates should also be willing and able to assist with cooking, camp logistics, equipment management and general expedition duties. We are looking for someone who is professional, reliable, adaptable, practical and able to work independently, while also being a positive and supportive member of the Ecolife team. A recognized field-guiding qualification or equivalent practical experience is preferred. WHO WE ARE LOOKING FOR We are looking for guides who are more than just wildlife interpreters. Ecolife guides are an important part of the expedition team and need to be comfortable taking responsibility for people, vehicles, equipment, logistics and the overall guest experience. If you are an experienced guide who enjoys working with people, wildlife, conservation and education, and you are looking for flexible freelance expedition work, we would like to hear from you.