Field Guide level 1 course in South Africa

The Field Guide course, level 1, will equip you with lasting knowledge! You will gain your first impressions on long walks and expeditions – whilst acquiring in-depth knowledge from your professionally qualified instructor. During these fascinating 55 days you will learn all about plants and animals such as amphibians, reptiles and mammals and their relationship with each other within the South African ecosystem. There are many facets to the Field Guide Level 1 course. You will learn various methods for orientation and navigation in open country, including insights into astronomy, so that you can determine your geographical position using the constellations. During the daily outings you will learn how to handle an open cross-country vehicle and how to reach your destination safely even in rough terrain. Your training as a field guide also includes basic instruction on the geological and climatological conditions in South Africa, tracking, animal behaviour analysis and how to identify native animal, plant and tree species. With time, you will be able to identify many birds and animals just from their calls in the heart of this wild and fascinating countryside. You will also gain insights into the tourism industry and the history of Africa, which will give you a better understanding of their significance with respect to the continent’s problems and options. The major challenges for nature conservation today include conserving species and preserving the natural dynamics of their habitats while at the same time keeping global environmental change at bay. During your time in South Africa you will discover how nature conservation really works, what measures are used and what factors can have a positive or negative influence on the development of an ecosystem.

Whatever ambitions motivate you to participate in this course, it will be a fascinating time during which you will learn about the country and its natural environment in such a unique way that you won’t want to go home.