Game Ranger Course in South Africa

by Gapforce

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$600-900Program Costs

VerifiedProvider

5.0 / 5Student rating

1Review

16Programs

1997Year established

$600-900Program Costs

VerifiedProvider

5.0 / 5Student rating

1Review

16Programs

1997Year established

Program Overview

A unique blend of wildlife biology and ecology, this 8-week course gives you the theoretical and practical training needed to become a qualified Field Guide. The program is run at a renowned Big Five game reserve covering around 6,000 hectares. It aims to deepen your knowledge and understanding of the natural world and cover geology, astronomy, weather, climate, and basic ecology. Completing the course will result in your FGASA Apprentice Field Guide qualification. This qualification is ideal for aspiring game rangers, conservationists, and those seeking insight into Field Guiding and a deeper understanding of wildlife and the African bush.

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Program Highlights

Live and learn on a world-famous Big Five game reserve.

Complete your FGASA Apprentice Field Guide (NQF2) certification.

Gain hands-on wildlife research and conservation management training.

Enjoy optional weekend excursions to Port Elizabeth.

Work with people from around the world.

What's Included

Accommodation / Housing for Program Duration

Some Program Activity Costs

Wifi Costs

Weekday Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Welcome Dinner

Airport Transfer (Pick-Up)

Airport Transfer (Drop-Off)

On-Site / In-Country Staff Support

Pre-Departure Orientation

Training

Emergency Support

Tuition & Fees

Quick Details

Location

South Africa

Starts At$600-900

Availability

Year(s) Offered:Year Round

Duration:

5-8 Weeks

Age Requirement18-30

Types & Subjects

Fields:

Zoology & Wildlife Sciences

Causes:

Wildlife

Types:

Adventure Travel
Animals
Study Abroad
Wilderness

GuidelinesAll Nationalities

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Updated Aug 27, 2026

Program Details

Learn all the nitty gritty details you need to know

Locations

South Africa

Available Terms / Availability

Years Offered: Year Round
Duration: 5-8 Weeks
Intern Duration: 1-3 Months
Gap Year Timing: After College, During College, Post High School, Career Break / Mid-Career

Eligible Nationalities

All Nationalities
This Program is also open to Solo, Couples

Education Levels & Language

Language: English
Any/All Education Levels Accepted

Accommodation Options

Group living

Application Procedures

Online Application
Other

Age Requirement

18-30

Duration

5-8 Weeks

Starts At

$600-900

a mother and baby elephant — Game Ranger Course

a lion relaxes in a field — Game Ranger Course

a man looks out at an elephant — Game Ranger Course

a giraffe peaks over a bush — Game Ranger Course

Program Reviews

Hear what past participants have to say about Gapforce

5.0

1 review

Rating breakdown

Top categories

Itinerary

5.0

Living Situation

5.0

Cultural Immersion

5.0

Program Administration

5.0

Health & Safety

5.0

Satisfaction

5.0

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Eve GUnited Kingdom · March 2025

10/10 experience!

I loved every second of my time in South Africa. All the staff at the reserve were fantastic, especially the rangers who were really knowledgeable and enthusiastic about the conservation that was happening there. There was a really good blend between all aspects of the course, including the classroom learning, field learning and also participating in some of the volunteer activities as well. The accommodation on the reserve was really nice and well looked after too!

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FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to all the most common questions about Gapforce.

Who is the Game Ranger Course in South Africa course for?

This course is perfect for aspiring field guides and conservationists, or those on an extended break, looking for insight into field guiding and a deeper understanding of wildlife and the African bush. The minimum age to participate is 1,8 and you must also have your doctor sign our medical form to confirm you are medically fit to participate. A reasonable level of fitness is required to participate.

Where will I stay while in South Africa?

You will stay in comfortable shared dormitories at the on-site volunteer accommodation. Dorms sleep several participants, with 2-bed partitioned areas for privacy. Sleeping areas are single-sex, with shared entertainment rooms and dining areas.

Who will supervise participants during the course?

The course is run by professional local staff with years of experience in the safari guiding industry. Together, the team conveys a well-rounded understanding of the environment, wildlife, field guides, and safari hospitality.