Proudly established in Botswana four decades ago, Wilderness is dedicated to increasing the world’s wilderness, together.
PRIMARY PURPOSE
Ensuring the comfort and needs of guests are attained in camp as well as striving to exceed all expectations. Practicing seamless communications and ensuring all personnel in camp understand and deliver accordingly. Incident reporting and maintaining a database of all guest likes and/or dislikes for future reference.
The Lodge Manager is responsible for maintaining the smooth operation of a luxury safari lodge. To provide leadership and development to staff, maintain lodge facilities and provide a level of hospitality which meets the company’s minimum standards.
Job Summary
- Type: full-time
- Location: Gaborone
- Category: Hospitality & Tourism
- Closing Date: 2026-08-14
Key Responsibilities
- Personalise all welcome and departure cards.
- Ensure and provide flawless, upscale and professional in camp and out of camp guest service experiences.
- Analyze guest feedback and provide strategic direction to continuously improve overall rating.
- Anticipate and react promptly to guests’ requirements; a sense of urgency.
- Oversee and coordinate all arrivals and departures of all camp guests.
- Coordinate and manage communication between guests and staff and follow up to ensure complete service delivery.
- Direct, coach and manage camp employees to ensure all standards and operating procedures are adhered to.
- Maintaining all aspects of facilities and assets in the camp and back of house through best practice of hygiene and safety standards for both guests and staff.
- Ensuring the maintenance and ongoing development of the Environmental Management Plan within the set framework.
Requirements
- Diploma in Hospitality Management, Tourism or equivalent.
- A minimum of 3 years’ experience within the hospitality industry.
- Experience in handling international guests and seasoned travellers will give an added advantage.
- Ability to work independently in a remote area
- Strong leadership, communication and people management skills
- Service excellence (Desire to enhance Guest Experience).
- Integrity.
- Problem solving.
- Organizational Skills.
- Ability to work flexible hours
How to Apply
About the Company
Wilderness or wildlands are Earth's natural environments that have not been significantly modified by human activity, or any nonurbanized land not under extensive agricultural cultivation. The term has traditionally referred to terrestrial environments, though growing attention is being placed on marine wilderness. Recent maps of wilderness suggest it covers roughly one-quarter of Earth's terrestrial surface, but is being rapidly degraded by human activity. Even less wilderness remains in the ocean, with only 13.2% free from intense human activity.
Website: https://www.wildernessdestinations.com/africa/botswana
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications and experience are typically required for a Lodge Manager role in Botswana's wilderness areas?
Candidates usually need a diploma or degree in Hospitality Management, Tourism, or a related field, coupled with significant experience in lodge operations, ideally in a remote or wilderness setting. Strong leadership, guest relations, and operational management skills are essential for success in this demanding environment.
What are the common day-to-day responsibilities of a Lodge Manager in a wilderness setting in Botswana?
Daily tasks involve overseeing all lodge operations, including guest services, staff management, maintenance, and food and beverage quality. You'll also manage logistics for remote locations, ensure health and safety standards, and maintain strong community and conservation relationships.
What is the typical work culture and what are the expectations for a Lodge Manager in Botswana, especially in remote areas?
The work culture often involves long hours and living on-site, fostering a close-knit team environment. Employers expect dedication, adaptability to remote living conditions, a strong service ethic, and an understanding of local customs and environmental conservation principles.
What are the typical career progression paths for a successful Lodge Manager in Botswana's hospitality sector?
Successful Lodge Managers can advance to Cluster Manager roles, overseeing multiple properties, or move into regional operational management positions within larger hospitality groups. Opportunities may also arise in training, consulting, or developing new lodge ventures.
What kind of benefits package can a Lodge Manager typically expect in Botswana's wilderness lodges?
Standard benefits often include accommodation and meals on-site, a competitive salary, and medical aid. Many employers also provide provident fund contributions, annual leave, and potentially safari allowances or training opportunities.
What should job seekers focus on when applying for a Lodge Manager position in Botswana and what do employers typically look for?
Highlight your leadership experience, guest service excellence, operational efficiency, and your ability to thrive in remote, challenging environments. Employers value a strong understanding of conservation, cultural sensitivity, and a proven track record in luxury hospitality.