Tourism & Hospitality
Tour Guide
You show visitors South Africa's history, wildlife and culture.
- Starting salary
- R8 000 – R15 000
- Job demand
- Steady demand
- Key subjects
- Tourism, History
What do they do?
You show visitors South Africa's history, wildlife and culture.
A day in the life
You plan routes, lead groups, tell stories, keep people safe and handle logistics.
Skills you need
- Storytelling
- Languages
- History knowledge
- People skills
School subjects that help
- Tourism
- History
- Geography
- Languages
How long does it take?
3 main steps after school, usually 1–3 years of study, or longer at university.
Study path
- 1High school
- 2Tourist guide training + registration
- 3Guide
- 4Specialist or own tour business
Ways in: TVET College · Professional certification (CATHSSETA) · Entrepreneurship. University is not the only route.
Where can I study?
- TVET Colleges nationwide
- Cape Peninsula University of Technology
- Tshwane University of Technology
- Registered guide training providers
Admission requirements differ by institution, always check the official website.
What can I earn?
Entry level
R8 000 – R15 000
per month (estimate)
Mid career
R16 000 – R30 000
per month (estimate)
Experienced / senior
R35 000 – R60 000+ (plus tips)
per month (estimate)
Estimated salary ranges only. Salaries vary based on experience, qualification, industry, location and employer.
How to start preparing now
- • Learn your town's history deeply
- • Practise speaking to groups
- • Learn a new language
Try this career
Write and deliver a 5-minute guided tour of your school or neighbourhood.
Related careers
Like this field but not sure about this exact job? Try these.
This tool is designed to help you explore career possibilities. It does not replace professional career counselling, school guidance or official university admission requirements.