Follow the steps below to get your first Nature Site Guide Qualification:

1. Visit www.fgasa.co.za and register to become a member
2. Enroll for the Nature Site Guide NQF2 Qualification and pay the relevant fee
3. Enrollment fee includes: registration with FGASA, membership subscription for one year, all required learning materials
4. Study the learner manual and complete the workbook to help you prepare for the theory exam
5. Book and pay for your theory exam when you are ready to write it
6. Pass the exam with a minimum of 75%, this will declare you theoretically competent
7. Book your practical assessment with a CATHSSETA Accredited FGASA Assessor
8. Pass the practical assessment
9. You will be awarded with your Nature Site Guide NQF2 qualification
10. Additional steps are required to guide legally in South Africa
    • Register with CATHSSETA (FGASA will do this on your behalf – additional documentation required)
    • Once you have your CATHSSETA number you must register with the National Department of Tourism (NDT)
    • Find the NDT’s Registrar for your province here
    • Must have a valid First Aid certificate recognised by the Department of Labour South Africa
    • Must have a Professional Driver’s Permit (PrDP) from the Licensing Department if you intend to drive guests in a vehicle

**Full qualification requirements are detailed in the PDF below. Please be sure to read this carefully.

Your career in wildlife starts here! FGASA is a CATHSSETA accredited training provider that sets standards of guiding excellence and professionalism. FGASA guides are known worldwide for their knowledge, skills, and conduct making them some of the most in-demand nature guides for the safari and tourism industries. 

Our Nature Site Guide (NQF2) skills programme establishes a solid foundation of necessary knowledge, hard-skills and soft-skills needed to excel as a nature guide, field guide, or safari guide. The Nature Site Guide NQF2 course contains the following learning modules and outcomes: 

Module 1: Guiding in the Natural Environment and Creating a Guided Experience 

By the end of this module, you will be adept at the basics of delivering a well-rounded, informative, entertaining, and impactful guided experience in nature. You will understand the ethical considerations of conducting a guided experience, gain a good understanding about the aims of being a nature guide and how you can facilitate meaningful experiences in nature, helping to educate guests and play a role in preserving and maintaining Earth’s ecosystems and biodiversity. 

 

Module 2: Geology 

By completing this module, you will be able to discuss the basic composition of the Earth, its various layers and how geographical features are formed. Gain knowledge and understand of the critical role geology plays in species distribution and determination according to an area’s underlying geology and be able to interpret the various mechanisms of weathering and erosion that determine specific soil types. 

 

Module 3: Climate and Weather 

In this module you will learn and be able to define the key differences between overall climate and localised weather. You will be able to talk about how the oceans and altitude affect weather and temperature. Discuss how geographical positioning on the planet impacts climate and weather and understand how key weather systems, rainfall, and pressure systems impact local fauna and flora. 

 

Module 4: Astronomy 

At the end of this module, you will be able to recognise and interpret the starry night skies of the Southern Hemisphere, the visible constellations and gain essential information on our solar system. You will be able to discuss what exists beyond our solar system, within the larger universe, identify common constellations and how these can be used to navigate and determine seasonality. You will also be able to explain the impact of celestial bodies on global oceanic tides. 

 

Module 5: Ecology 

In this module you will gain the knowledge to understand the ecological levels of organisation and how these enable life and survival, be able to talk about how necessary nutrients and ecological energy are continuously and self-sustainably cycled through ecosystems, and you will be able to explain symbiosis and interspecies relationships in the environment. 

 

Module 6: Biomes of Southern Africa 

This module will teach you how to discuss the definition of a biome and the various parameters that determine what a biome is, know about all the different biomes that occur in South Africa and understand the key defining features of the fynbos biome and fynbos floral kingdom. 

 

Module 7: Taxonomy 

This module will teach you to understand the importance of hierarchal ordering in species identification. You will be able to talk about how living organisms are named and understand why species names change over time. 

 

Module 8: Plants – Trees, shrubs, forbs, and grasses 

In this module you will learn about and be able to discuss the importance of botany in ecosystems. You will be able to differentiate and identify diverse types of plant species and how these add to a guided experience. You will be able to explain how plants are classified, understand the fungal kingdom and its role in ecology. You will understand and be able to apply ancient medicinal knowledge of common African plant species. 

 

Module 9: Arthropods 

This module will cover everything you need to know to talk about and understand various arthropod species, their vital roles in ecosystems and how to identify them. By the end of this module, you will have a good understanding of insects, arachnids and chilopods. 

 

Module 10: Fish 

By the end of this module, you will be able to discuss basic classifications that determine animals of fish, you will have knowledge on the ecological role fish play in the natural environment. You will also develop a good understanding of fish behaviour. 

 

Module 11: Amphibians 

This module will teach you all the basics needed to understand and talk about various amphibian species with your guests. You will be able to effectively tell the difference between frogs and toads, discuss the importance of amphibians in ecosystems and interpret amphibian behaviour. 

 

Module 12: Reptiles 

This module will teach you everything you need to know about the stunning array of reptiles you could possibly encounter in Southern Africa. You will be able to discuss and identify the characteristics of reptiles as well as three main orders of reptiles found in Africa. You will gain important knowledge on the classifications of different types of snake venom, and you will be able to demonstrate the ecological importance of reptiles. 

 

Module 13: Birds 

By the end of this module, you will have the skills and knowledge needed to understand and talk about the characteristics and classifications of birds. You will be able to identify various bird species quickly and accurately as well as discuss bird behaviour. 

 

Module 14: Mammals 

This module will equip you with the knowledge to understand and discuss the characteristics and classifications of mammals. You will develop the skills needed to identify mammals through various parameters such as foot structure, feeding behaviour and taxonomic orders. You will also gain a deep understanding of ‘flagship’ species and their critical roles in maintaining ecosystems. 

 

Module 15: Ethology (Animal behaviour) 

This module will teach you the important basics of interpreting animal behaviour as a nature guide, and how animal behaviour can inform ethical decision making while conducting a guided experience. You will be able to discuss the differences between solitary animal and social animal behaviours and you will gain an understanding of animal tracks and signs deepening your ability to talk to guests about animals, even if you do not see them. 

 

Module 16: Conservation and Habitat Management 

This module covers everything you need to know about how natural landscapes are effectively managed and the role you play in this as a nature guide. You will be able to discuss and implement modern methods of ecological habitat management and restoration. You will gain in-depth knowledge on how fire is used as an important ecological management tool, how to prevent soil erosion and how to identify and safely remove alien invasive species. 

 

Module 17: Historic Human Habitation 

The landscapes of Africa have long, rich histories steeped in culture and tradition. As a nature guide it is important for you to understand how these cultures and traditions have shaped modern day reserves and wilderness areas. This module will give you a good understanding of the historic heritage and vibrant cultures of the people of South Africa. The significance of archaeological sites in Southern Africa as well as an understanding of the multiple languages spoken in South Africa. 

Follow the steps below to get your first Trails Guide VPDA Qualification:

1. You need to already be a FGASA member, your membership needs to be up-to-date
2. Need to have the full Nature Site Guide NQF2/NQF4 qualification
3. Enroll for the Trails Guide NQF2/NQF4 Qualification and pay the relevant fee
4. Enrollment fee includes: all required learning materials
5. Study the learner manuals and complete the workbook to help you prepare for the theory exam
6. Book and pay for your theory exam when you are ready to write it
7. Pass the exam with a minimum of 75%, this will declare you theoretically competent
8. You need to be declared competent at an Advanced Rifle Handling (ARH) assessment and have the required PFTC proficiencies: US117705; US119651; US123519
9. NOTE: FGASA does not issue standalone ARH certificates.
10. You may now start logging walking hours in your brown Dangerous Game Logbook
11. Once you have completed the required participant hours and encounters you need to then be vetted by a Trails Guide Mentor
12. Once you have been vetted you will need to begin logging walking hours as either first or second rifle
13. You need to meet the minimum number of required dangerous game encounters and log these in your brown Dangerous Game Logbook
14. These hours may be logged in the workplace
15. Once you have met the minimum requirements, had your logbook signed off by your mentor and FGASA you may then do the Trails Guide Assessment
16. You need to be declared competent by the Assessor
17. You will be awarded with your Trails Guide NQF2 qualification, this is the Dangerous Game Site Guide NQF2 Accredited by CATHSSETA
18. To obtain the FGASA Trails Guide NQF4 qualification you will need to have the Tracker I certificate (combined Animal Track & Sign and Animal Trailing levels). This is the only additional requirement for the Trails Guide NQF4 qualification. The Trails Guide Qualification is linked directly to the Nature Site Guide Qualification (i.e. if you have Nature Site Guide NQF2 and complete the Trails Guide Qualification you will obtain the Trails Guide (Dangerous Game Site Guide) NQF2 qualification, if you have Nature Site Guide NQF4 and complete the Trails Guide Qualification you will receive the Dangerous Game Site Guide NQF4 Qualification, the Tracker I certificate is compulsory for the FGASA Trails Guide NQF4 Qualification)
19. Additional steps are required to guide legally in South Africa
    • Update your qualification with CATHSSETA (FGASA will do this on your behalf – additional documentation required)
    • Need to have a valid First Aid certificate recognised by the Department of Labour South Africa
    • Find the NDT’s Registrar for your province here

**Full qualification requirements are detailed in the PDF below. Please be sure to read this carefully.

The Trails Guide and Rifle Handing course will give you the ability to guide guests safely and ethically on foot in high profile animal areas. The term “high profile animals” specifically refers to lions, leopards, Cape buffalo, elephants, rhinos, and hippos out of water. For the purposes of this course these animals are referred to as “dangerous game.” It is important to note that these animals could be potentially dangerous, and this course will give you the skills needed to view and encounter these animals on foot, with guests, in a safe, ethical, informative, and immersive way. 

You will only be able to begin the Trails Guide journey after completing your Nature Site Guide NQF2 (minimum requirement) or FGASA Field Guide NQF4 skills programmes in full. The Professional and SKS DG Trails Guide certifications work on experience and encounters and do not have an associated learner manual, there is however a workbook for the Professional Trails Guide certification. 

Contained within the theoretical course curriculum is the following: 

Module 1: Protocols: Dangerous Game Walking Qualifications 

This module gives you an overview of the various Trails Guide qualifications and requirements to advance those qualifications from Trails Guide NQF2 all the way up to Trails Guide SKS DG Mentor and Assessor requirements. By the end of this module, you will have a clear understanding of the requirements to become a Trails Guide, how to complete your logbooks and the potential career path you may follow as a Trails Guide. 

 

Module 2: Dangerous Animal Knowledge 

By the end of this module, you will have a good understanding of and the ability to accurately identify dangerous game animals you can expect to encounter on foot in the bush. This includes some general information and statistics on the dangerous animals, their vocalisations, and their tracks and signs.  

 

Module 3: Animal Comfort Zones 

In this module you will learn and be able to ethically apply your skills and knowledge of animal behaviour and animal reactions to people on foot at different distances. These distances are divided into categories based on the proximity to the animal and how that proximity may alter the animal’s natural behaviour.  

 

Module 4: Planning for Trails Guiding Experience 

After completing this module, you will be able to facilitate a safe, ethical, and immersive on foot experience in a dangerous game area. You will have the necessary knowledge to plan your walking route, prepare and brief your guests for the guided experience ahead. 

 

Module 5: Trails Guiding Equipment 

By the end of this module, you will understand the type of equipment you, as a Trails Guide, will be using while guiding guests on foot. This includes your belt kit, backpacks, the type of items you should pack in your backpack, and the types of tools you may need to take with you. It will also give you an overview of how to dress and present yourself correctly to the guests and ensure you have quick access to important items. 

 

Module 6: Rifle Etiquette and Safety during Walks 

This module will ensure you have an in-depth understanding of how to safely carry your rifle and what to do with it while you are stopping for breaks, stopping to examine tracks or interpret an aspect of the bush. How to correctly steer and control your guests while on foot and how to brief your guests on the purpose of the rifle and the rule regarding the rifle while on walk. 

 

Module 7: Conducting a Guided Walking Experience 

This module will equip you with the knowledge you need to brief you guests prior to embarking on the walk, the ground rules of being on foot in the bush, walking routes you can take, areas that need extra consideration while walking, group control, radio procedures, and encounters with dangerous animals. This module will also give you an intricate understanding of when a fatal shot should be taken in the unfortunate event of a serious animal charge or potential attack to ensure guest and guide safety. 

 

Module 8: Specific Animal Charges and Guide Actions 

By the end of this module, you will have detailed knowledge and understanding of dangerous animal charging speeds and associated behaviours (incl. Lions, leopard, elephants, buffalo, rhino, and hippo out of water). It will also equip you with the knowledge and skills needed to follow up after taking a fatal shot at a dangerous game animal, including the humane dispatch of the animal should the shot not have been fatal. 

 

Module 9: Shot Placement 

This module will give you a good understanding of where to fatally shoot a dangerous game animal in a serious charge situation. Remember that shooting a wild animal is ALWAYS A LAST RESORT for Trails Guides, however, in serious incidents it is important to keep both the guides and guests safe from physical harm. You will learn where to aim and place your shots to humanely dispatch lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, buffaloes, and hippos should there be a serious charge or attack attempt. 

 

Module 10: Backpack and Primitive Trails 

At the end of this module, you will understand how to lead guests on multi-day primitive or backpack trails where you and your guests will sleep out in the bush. You will be able to choose a safe campsite, have knowledge of starting fires for cooking, warmth, and light, how to control and put out the fire as well as rehabilitate the area once the camp is packed up. 

 

Module 11: Evacuation of Guests from Trail 

This module covers emergency evacuation procedures for medical and serious emergencies as well as getting your guests safely to the emergency collection point. 

 

Module 12: Orientation Skills 

In this module you will be taught how to effectively read and interpret maps, find your direction and bearings, map orientation including compass use, what to do if you become lost or disoriented and the use of GPS devices. 

 

Module 13: Incident and Crime Scene Management 

By the end of this module, you will have the necessary knowledge to effectively deal with incidents and crime scenes in the bush. You will learn how to report a discovered crime scene (such as a murder or poaching incident) and you will learn how to manage the aftermath of fatally shooting an animal in self-defence. 

Follow the steps below to get your Marine Nature Site Guide Qualification:

1. Visit www.fgasa.co.za and register to become a member
2. Enroll for the Marine Nature Site Guide NQF2 Qualification and pay the relevant fee
3. Enrollment fee includes: registration with FGASA, membership subscription for one year, all required learning materials
4. Study the learner manual and complete the workbook to help you prepare for the theory exam
5. Book and pay for your theory exam when you are ready to write it
6. Pass the exam with a minimum of 75%, this will declare you theoretically competent
7. Book your practical assessment with a CATHSSETA Accredited FGASA Assessor
8. Pass the practical assessment
9. You will be awarded with your Marine Nature Site Guide NQF2 qualification
10. Additional steps are required to guide legally in South Africa
    • Register with CATHSSETA (FGASA will do this on your behalf – additional documentation required)
    • Once you have your CATHSSETA number you must register with the National Department of Tourism (NDT)
    • Find the NDT’s Registrar for your province here
    • Must have a valid First Aid certificate recognised by the Department of Labour South Africa
    • Must have a Professional Driver’s Permit (PrDP) from the Licensing Department if you intend to drive guests in a vehicle

**Full qualification requirements are detailed in the PDF below. Please be sure to read this carefully.

Your deep dive into Marine Guiding starts here! Our Marine Guide NQF2 skills programme will give you the needed knowledge and skills, built from a solid foundation to excel as a Marine Guide and deliver informative, fun, safe and ethical guided experiences on Southern Africa’s incredible coastlines! 

Our Marine Guide (NQF2) skills programme establishes a solid foundation of necessary knowledge, hard-skills and soft-skills needed to excel as a Marine Nature Site Guide. The Marine Guide NQF2 course contains two volumes of the learner manual and one workbook covering the following learning modules and outcomes: 

 

Marine Guide Learner Manual: Volume 1 

Module 1: Introduction to Maring Guiding 

This learning module contains five units that will equip you with necessary knowledge on what marine guiding is, the coastal marine guiding experience, the ethics of being a professional marine guide, guiding principles and code of conduct expected of FGASA qualified marine guides, as well as an overview of how to qualify and register yourself. 

 

Module 2: Creating a Guided Marine Experience 

In this module you will cover ten learning units that will equip you with the ability to effectively communicate with your guests, to be mindful of cultural difference between guests, how to communicate effectively and other important considerations of being a Marine Guide. 

 

Module 3: The Coastal Marine Environment and the Two Oceans 

This module contains three units that will enable you to understand coastal and marine environments, the two oceans in southern Africa as well as their biodiversity, the three coastal regions of South Africa and their differences, and the coastal habitats of South Africa as well as some of the wildlife and plants you may encounter within them. 

 

Module 4: Geology and the Coastal Environment 

This module covers 12 learning units, at the end of this module you will be able to explain geology, topography and the basic composition of the earth. You will also be able to discuss plate tectonics, the rock cycle rock formation, weathering, and erosion, soil ecosystems and profile as well as geographical relationships. 

 

Module 5: Astronomy 

In this module you will cover nine learning units to will enable you to explain and interpret the southern night skies, astronomical phenomena, the planets and their positions in our solar system, common constellations and their prominent stars, the phases of the moon, eclipses, the effects of celestial bodies on oceanic tides, intertidal ranges and the tools of the trade for astronomers. 

 

Module 6: Weather and Climate 

This module contains 12 learning units, by the end of this module you will be able to understand and explain the differences between weather and climate, the influences on South Africa’s climate, pressure cells and associated weather, cloud types and what they mean, and the general climate of Southern Africa. 

 

Module 7: Basic Marine Ecology 

By the end of the seven units contained in this module you will be able to talk about ecology and ecosystems, marine ecosystems, the nutrient cycle and the trophic pyramid, and relationships between living things. 

 

Module 8: Basic Taxonomy 

This module will teach you the basics of the taxonomical hierarchal order and how living organisms are named. By the end of this module, you will be able to discuss and teach this to your guests. 

 

 

Marine Guide Learner Manual: Volume 2 

Module 9: Sea Plants (algae) including Dunes, Mangrove, and Saltmarsh Plants  

At the end of the ten learning units contained within this module you will have the knowledge needed to identify marine plants and speak about their classifications, varying types of algae, seaweeds and their uses as well as mangrove, saltmarsh and coastal dune botany. 

 

Module 10: Marine Invertebrates 

This module contains nine learning units, by the end of the module you will be able to identify and discuss what invertebrates are and how to classify them, and you will have a comprehensive understanding of various categories of different marine invertebrates.  

 

Module 11: Amphibians 

After completing the seven learning units in this module you will be able to identify and talk about the classification of amphibians, understand, and discuss frog calls and their functions, and various aspects of their behaviour, and amphibian metamorphosis. 

 

Module 12: Marine Reptiles 

In this module you will cover five learning units that will equip you with the knowledge to discuss marine reptiles, differentiate between three main orders of reptiles and their defining characteristics and behaviours. 

 

Module 13: Marine Fish 

In this module you will cover 11 learning units, giving you the skills and information needed to talk about what a fish is and how to define them, diverse types of different fish and the physiology, the sense organs fish use to survive, natural buoyancy and swim bladders and breathing. 

 

Module 14: Coastal Marine Birds 

This module contains 10 learning units that will enable you to discuss and describe birds with a particular emphasis on coastal marine birds. By the end of this module, you will understand the characteristics of birds as well as being able to talk about various species of coastal marine birds, where they are found, their adaptations and their behaviours. 

 

Module 15: Coastal Marine Mammals 

By the end of this learning module, you will have a clear grasp of various marine mammals you are likely to find in the oceans surrounding Southern Africa. You will understand how marine mammals are classified and what separates them from their terrestrial counterparts. You will learn about whales, dolphins, and Baleen whales as well as fur-seals and sea otters. 

 

Module 16: Animal Behaviour (Ethology) 

By the end of this module, you will be able to discuss the behaviour of various marine animals, hoe the communicates, the difference between territories and home ranges, group social structures and hierarchies, and the sex change behaviour of fish. 

 

Module 17: Historical Human Habitation 

In this final module you will cover 13 learning units all describing the importance and impacts of human habitation. You will be able to talk about early human habitation covering historical epochs from the early stone age to the late iron age, discuss coastal human habitation, human impacts on the coast, the cultures of Southern Africa, modern sustainable fishing, and marine harvesting, South African aquariums, and their purpose, and transfrontier parks and biosphere reserves. 

Follow the steps below to get your first FGASA Birding Certificate

1. You need to be a FGASA member, your membership needs to be up-to-date
2. Need to have Nature Site Guide NQF2/NQF4 or Professional Field Guide qualification
3. Enroll for the FGASA Bird Guide certificate
4. Enrollment fee includes: all required learning materials
5. Book for the FGASA Bird Guide slide & sound exam (this includes one biome of your choice as well as the core bird list)
6. You need to pass the bird Slide & Sound exam (75% for the slides section and 75% for the sound section)
7. You need to complete the FGASA Bird Guide workbook, this is compulsory
8. You may now book your Bird Guide practical assessment directly with a FGASA Assessor
9. You need to pass the practical assessment and be declared competent 
10. You will be awarded your regional Bird Guide certificate

**Full qualification requirements are detailed in the PDF below. Please be sure to read this carefully.

Follow the stapes below to get your FGASA Advanced Astronomy Certificate

1. You need to be a FGASA member, your membership needs to be up-to-date 
2. Need to have Nature Site Guide NQF2/NQF4 or Professional Field Guide qualification
3. Enroll for the FGASA Advanced Astronomy certificate
4. Enrollment fee includes: all required learning materials
5. You need to complete the FGASA Advanced Astronomy workbook to help you prepare for the exam, this is compulsory
6. You need to pass the Advanced Astronomy theory exam (75%) and be declared competent
7. You may now book your Advanced Astronomy practical assessment directly with a FGASA Assessor qualified to assess astronomy
8. You must pass the practical assessment and be declared competent 
9. You will be awarded your FGASA Advanced Astronomy certificate

**Full qualification requirements are detailed in the PDF below. Please be sure to read this carefully.

Follow the steps below to get your FGASA Nature Enthusiast (Non-Guiding) Certificate:

1. Visit www.fgasa.co.za and register to become a member
2. Enroll for the FGASA Nature Enthusiast Certificate and pay the relevant fee
3. Enrollment fee includes: registration with FGASA, membership subscription for one year, all required learning materials
4. Study the learner manual and complete the workbook to help you prepare for the theory exam
5. Book and pay for your theory exam when you are ready to write it
6. Pass the exam with a minimum of 75%, this will declare you competent
7. You will be awarded with your FGASA Nature Enthusiast (Non-Guiding) Certificate

PLEASE NOTE: This is a NON-GUIDING certificate and is meant for interest purposes only. This certificate cannot be converted into the Nature Site Guide NQF2 qualification at a later stage. If you want to work as a field guide or pursue a career in safari tourism please enroll for the Nature Site Guide NQF2 qualification.

**Full qualification requirements are detailed in the PDF below. Please be sure to read this carefully.

Follow the steps below to become a FGASA Trails Guide Mentor:

1. You need to be a FGASA Professional Field Guide with a minimum of three years experience, your membership needs to be up-to-date
2. You need to be nominated in writing to FGASA management. The nomination needs to come from three current mentors
3. The potential new Mentor needs to provide FGASA Management and the SKS Dangerous Game (DG) Standards Committee with a comprehensive CV
4. You need to attend an interview with the FGASA Management and the SKS (DG) Standards Committee.
5. FGASA Management and the SKS (DG) Standards Committee need to agree that the individual is suitable to be a mentor before they can be appointed.
6. The potential new Mentor needs to attend a training session
7. You need to support FGASA and believe in what the Association is striving towards.
8. You will be awarded and recognised as a FGASA Trails Guide Mentor

IMPORTANT NOTE: Becoming a Trails Guide Mentor follows the process of being appointed to the position. It is not guaranteed that you will automatically qualify to become a mentor.

*Professional Trails Guide Requirements – see separate flow chart under the Qualifications Page on the FGASA Website

**Full qualification requirements are detailed in the PDF below. Please be sure to read this carefully.