Job Summary
- Employer: Botswana Wildlife Training Institute
- Job Type: Full-time
- Location: Maun, Botswana
- Category: Tourism
- Closing Date: 2026-10-19
Key Responsibilities
- Have three (3) years of traceable experience as Assistant Guide or Assistant Hunter excluding the current year. Attach three (3) previous copies of Assistant Guide or Assistant Hunter’s licenses i.e. (2023, 2024, 2025 and license expiring in 2026 to show that you are still in practice).
Requirements
- Be 21 years and above.
- Submit certified copies of certificates, minimum of BGCSE or COSC or equivalent
- Submit three (3) different references not more than 2 years old stating guiding/ hunting experiences.
- Submit a valid certified copy of Omang.
- Submit a valid certified copy of Class B driver’s license.
How to Apply
Address: P.O. Box 368, Maun OR hand delivered at Admin block Registry office. For more information pl
About the Company
The Botswana Wildlife Training Institute is a government funded educational facility in Botswana. It is located adjacent to the Maun Wildlife Educational Park, on the Thamalakane River near Maun in the North-West District.
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications do I need to become a Professional Hunter or Guide in Botswana?
You must complete training at the Botswana Wildlife Training Institute (BWTI) and pass the Specialist Licensing Examination administered by the Botswana Qualifications Authority. A valid firearms competency certificate and first aid certification are typically required. Many employers also prefer candidates with a background in wildlife management, conservation, or related fields.
What does a typical day look like for a Professional Hunter or Guide in Botswana?
Your day usually starts before dawn with game tracking, client safety briefings, and route planning for hunting or photographic safaris. You will spend hours navigating diverse terrains, identifying wildlife, and ensuring ethical practices align with Botswana's strict conservation laws. Evenings involve camp management, equipment maintenance, and logging daily activities for regulatory compliance.
How is the work culture different for hunting and guiding professionals in Botswana compared to other countries?
Botswana emphasizes community-based natural resource management, so you will often collaborate with local communities and respect their land rights and cultural protocols. The industry operates under a high-ethics framework with zero tolerance for illegal hunting practices. Professionalism, patience, and adaptability are highly valued due to unpredictable wildlife behavior and seasonal conditions.
What career progression opportunities exist after obtaining my Professional Hunter or Guide license?
With experience, you can advance to senior guide or head professional hunter roles managing larger concessions or luxury safari operations. Some professionals transition into training and examining roles at BWTI or consultancy positions with conservation NGOs. Entrepreneurship is also viable, as licensed individuals may eventually establish their own safari or hunting outfitting businesses.
What benefits should I expect from employers in Botswana's tourism sector?
Benefits vary by employer but typically include accommodation in remote camp settings, meals, and transport to concession areas. Larger established companies may offer medical aid, pension contributions, and annual leave in line with Botswana's Employment Act. Smaller operators often provide fewer formal benefits, so it is important to clarify terms before accepting a position.
How do I apply for Professional Hunter or Guide positions in Botswana, and what do employers prioritize?
Apply directly to safari operators, hunting concessionaires, or lodge groups, often through industry networks like the Botswana Wildlife Training Institute job board or professional associations. Employers prioritize proven tracking skills, firearm proficiency, client service experience, and a clean legal record. Strong references from senior professionals and demonstrated knowledge of Botswana's flora, fauna, and regulations significantly improve your prospects.
