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

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.

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