The Tourist Guide

A Tourist Guide is a person who guides visitors in the language of their choice and interprets the cultural and natural heritage of an area which person normally possesses an area-specific qualification usually issued and/or recognised by the appropriate authority. (World Federation of Tourist Guide Associations).

The Tourism Act, 2014 states that a 'Tourist guide' is any person registered according to the act, and who for reward accompanies any person who travels within or visits any place within the Republic and who furnishes such person with information or comments.

Guiding categories

Culture guide

Nature guide

Adventure guide

Requirements to register as a guide with the National Department of Tourism (NDT)

A Declaration of Competence (DoC)

A Cathsseta Guiding Certificate - attend a course offered by an accredited provider

A valid First Aid Level 1 Certificate

A certified copy of Identity document

Signed copy of the Tourist Guide Code of COnduct and Ethics

Completed application form

4 colour ID photos of yourself

Pay R240 registration fee

If the Tourist Guide is non South African a valid work permit is required

The role and function of the Tourist Guide

This will vary depending on various factors for example, the expectations of the employer, the purpose and setting for the tour:

Main function is to interpret information.

Ensures the safety and security of the group at all times.

Operates within the national and international legal framework.

Completes administrative tasks.

Performs a variety of other tasks that include managing the group, communicating, setting a good example, boosting the morale of the group and entertaining the visitors.

Purchase course Tour operator

What kind of tours would you like to do?

Choose the course that you are interested in ...

I would like to take tourists around my area or property, township, small town, museum, or specific route, focusing on local culture and history.

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I am interested in cultural driving and walking tours in one or more provinces (overland tours), city centres, and other major tourism sites / overland tours.

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I am focused on giving clients nature experiences in a reserve, or local area (in a limited geographical area).

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Combine your interests

Qualify to offer both cultural and natural experiences - add nature guiding to your main course

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Become a tourist guide enterpreneur: planning, designing, and conducting your own tours - include tour operator course

Purchase

The Tourist Guide

What kind of tours would you like to do?

I would like to take tourists around my area or property, township, small town, museum, or specific route, focusing on local culture and history.

I am interested in cultural driving and walking tours in one or more provinces (overland tours), city centres, and other major tourism sites / overland tours.

I am focused on giving clients nature experiences in a reserve, or local area (in a limited geographical area).

Combine your interests

Qualify to offer both cultural and natural experiences - add nature guiding to your main course

Become a tourist guide enterpreneur: planning, designing, and conducting your own tours - include tour operator course

Offer adventure activities

Register and become legal

Get your tourist guide badge

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