South Africa game ranger course (8 weeks)

Seeing the Big 5 in South Africa is a must: but why not go deeper into your love for wildlife by actually living alongside them? This 8 week game ranger course opens you up to life in a Big 5 Game Reserve. From game counts to relocation, from fence patrols to vegetation rehabilitation, all of the skills that you develop give you experience of life as a game ranger.

Not only does the course give you an insight into the running of a park, it also sets you up for your FGASA (Field Guide Association of South Africa) level 1 qualification, recognised across Africa. As part of this course, local rangers will give you insight into astronomy, geology, weather, ecology, animal identification and animal behaviour. Working alongside the local rangers, you can help with the introduction of African mammal species, tagging and relocating animals, as well as educating others about the amazing creatures that you will come into contact with.
At the end of this diverse 8 week programme, living in the heart of a Big 5 Reserve, you can take your field guide exams to get your qualification.
The reserve is home to many other species outside of the Big 5 (lions, African elephants, cape buffalo, leopard and rhino). An average day could see you helping with conservation efforts in the reserve with a giraffe standing by. Zebras roam freely across the area- a perfect sight to see in the South African sunset.

South Africa game ranger course >>
Location: Port Elizabeth area, Eastern Cape (South Africa)
Dates 2013: 05 August & 07 October 2013
Dates: 2014: 27 Jan, 31 Mar, 9 Jun, 11 Aug, 13 Oct (inquire for dates in 2015 >>)
Price: From £2779 (8 weeks) excluding flights
[Price includes game ranger programme including FGASA registration and fees, exams, course materials and training for the course. Accommodation, airport transfers and 3 delicious meals a day are provided in the reserve. Optional weekend trips are also laid on.]