Kruger trip gives students hands-on field guide skills
Aspiring field guides from Ditoro Outreach visited Koru Camp for hands-on training, wildlife encounters, and conservation education.
LIMPOPO – Aspiring field guides from Ditoro Outreach recently embarked on an eye-opening educational trip to Koru Camp in the Greater Kruger where they received hands-on training in wildlife guiding and had a rare close-up encounter with a leopard during a game drive.
Founded in 2023 by Kutullo Shai, Ditoro Outreach is an NPO dedicated to supporting community members pursuing certification as professional field guides.
The trip provided students with a unique opportunity to bring their studies to life.
“It is very challenging to self-study nature and guiding when you’re based outside of the natural areas,” said Shai. “So, for us to have that opportunity to visit the Greater Kruger was really amazing and helped a lot. The students all loved it. It’s very motivating to see what they are learning about in real life, from the animals to even the practical responsibilities of a guide, like guest safety and vehicle checks. We’d love to return for more.”
Over two days, students explored a wide range of topics from their FGASA (Field Guides Association of Southern Africa) curriculum. Lessons included animal diets, social structures, arthropod identification, camouflage strategies, and bird calls.
They also practiced essential field skills such as ethical spotlight use and changing a tyre in the bush.
A highlight of the visit came at dawn during a game drive, when students witnessed a leopard silently stalking two female kudus.
“The leopard held its position as the sun began to rise, but the kudus remained alert,” recalled Emily Whiting of Koru Camp. “Eventually, the light tipped the balance in the kudus’ favour. They barked in alarm and disappeared into the bush.”
Koru Camp’s mission complements Ditoro’s goals, offering transformative nature-based experiences for individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds.
The camp focusses on conservation education, immersive wilderness exposure, and teaching practical skills for sustainable living.
Shai, who manages Ditoro in his spare time, said his passion for guiding was sparked during his first game drive at age 12.
“Today, I’m honoured to be part of a journey that empowers our communities to become ambassadors of our natural heritage,” he said.
“One small action can create a profound impact. Let’s support each other and work toward a future where people and nature thrive together.”
