Project Coordinator
Participate in the nature guide training in the heart of the bush in South Africa. You will be trained in a nature reserve to become a professional guide. The training modules are spread over 1 year or can be joined for shorter periods of time (4 to 8 weeks) : species identification, tracking and group supervision with experienced guides. You will be part of an international team within our training organization to live a real immersive experience of personal and professional development. It is also an opportunity to train by acting positively on the ecosystems of the region!
Voici le témoignage d’une participante à la formation :
Mon aventure, c’est très bien passée, tout simplement magique, j’en garde un très bon souvenir.
Une seule remarque « négative » : pas avoir été informé que c’était quasi impossible de trouver du travail à l’étranger dans ce domaine-là : Guide safari en AFS. Sinon, je l’aurais fait en Namibie, grande déception. Mais la formation était de grande qualité, les intervenants super, tout s’est extrêmement bien passé.
J’ai appris énormément, j’ai adoré, et je suis tombé dans un groupe exceptionnel. Seulement un petit bémol pour cette histoire de visa.
Merci pour votre travail en amont, d’avoir tout géré !
Our wildlife training programs take place in South Africa and Botswana. 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, you will be based in camps located in the heart of the bush. You will go on foot or 4×4 expeditions twice a day. Your training may take place in one to four different reserves, allowing you to discover a wide variety of animal species and habitats.
This program lasts a full year. During the “theoretical” training, students participate in two outings per day: one in the morning from 5/6 AM to 10/11 AM and another in the evening from 4 PM to 8 PM to observe wildlife. There are also walking excursions to learn tracking techniques.
Following the training, students are placed in a practical internship at a partner lodge to test their guiding skills under the supervision of experienced guides and managers.
Trainers are also examiners, and 2-3 instructors will evaluate you throughout the course. Exams include oral presentations and real-life scenarios during expeditions, such as leading a safari, giving safety instructions, and providing explanations about animals.
At the end of your training, you will be able to obtain the following certifications:
– FGASA Field Guide Level 1
– Nature Site Guide NQF2 (CATHSSETA) qualification and FGASA Apprentice Field Guide Certificate
– Firearm Proficiency Certificate
– FGASA Advanced Rifle Handling
– FGASA Apprentice Trails Guide Status
– EcoTracker Track and Sign Certificate
– EcoTracker Trailing Certificate
– FGASA Tracker Certificate
– Basic and Advanced Birding
– Wilderness Medicine (Level 1 and 2)
While the field guide training provides an essential foundation for a professional guiding career, shorter programs are more accessible to a wider range of participants, including gap year students, interns, retirees, and nature enthusiasts.
The available training modules include:
The goal of these courses is to develop practical skills and expand knowledge gained in the FGASA Level 1 guide training. At the same time, you will enhance your environmental awareness and understanding.
You will have the chance to learn the traditional art of tracking, gaining insights into ancestral skills. We are committed to preserving and reviving indigenous knowledge by working with some of the last local experts.
The EcoQuest program has two main components: learning about nature and experiencing the daily life of a safari guide in the field. Additionally, you will learn to drive a 4×4, identify birds, trees, and other vegetation, and track animals.
This course allows bird enthusiasts and nature guides to acquire the basics of bird identification or deepen their existing knowledge. While part of the training is theoretical, it is primarily a practical experience involving extensive fieldwork.
This course focuses on uncovering the secrets behind stunning nature photography. Participants will have the opportunity to apply their learning in the field under the guidance of an experienced professional. Mornings and afternoons will be spent in the bush capturing the best shots, followed by classroom sessions for reviewing and constructively critiquing the photos taken during the day.
This unique course is designed to offer future guides and nature lovers an opportunity to connect with nature through unforgettable experiences. The training emphasizes the philosophy of nature and tracking, teaching participants to minimize their impact during activities. It is led by some of the most experienced guide trainers in Africa as part of the professional field guide training.
Like all of our training courses for working in the environment abroad , this project in South Africa allows you to benefit from complete learning while contributing to the preservation of the region's ecosystems.
Our trainings take place in South Africa, Botswana, Kenya and Zimbabwe.
24 hours a day, 7 days a week, you will evolve in camps located in the heart of the bush. You will go on expeditions on foot or by 4x4 twice a day. Depending on the option chosen, your training may take place in 1 to 4 different reserves, which will allow you to discover a wide variety of animal species and habitats.
This complete and in-depth training extends over a full year. It was created to meet the need for qualified guides in the safari market. It is intended for those who plan to position themselves in this market, but also for all those who wish to develop their knowledge of the African bush.
The nature guide training organization offers a formula that gives you every chance of success: "theoretical" training is given in 2 different reserves for about 6 months to experience as many situations as possible. Students take part in 2 outings a day, one in the morning from 5/6 a.m. to 10/11 a.m. and in the evening from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. in order to observe the nightlife. There are also walks to learn tracking techniques. Following the training, the students are then placed on a practical internship in a lodge to test their guiding skills. They are supervised by experienced guides and managers.
The trainers are also examiners, they will be 2-3 people to determine your success! You will have many exercises such as making oral presentations to other students to practice speaking, scenarios during outings: presentation of the safari, safety instructions, explanations about the animals, setting up the break coffee in a secure location (tea/coffee/biscuits!) etc.
At the end of your training you will be a certified guide in the following areas:
- FGASA Field Guide Level 1
- Nature Site Guide NQF2 (CATHSSETA) qualification and FGASA Apprentice Field Guide Certificate
- Firearm Proficiency Certificate
- FGASA Advanced Rifle Handling
- FGASA Apprentice Trails Guide Status
- EcoTracker Track and Sign Certificate
- EcoTracker Trailing Certificate
- FGASA Tracker Certificate
- Basic and Advanced Birding
- Wilderness Medicine (Level 1 and 2)
If this nature guide training constitutes an essential basis for those who wish to pursue a career as a field guide, or do their internship in a wildlife reserve. Participants who are joining the shorter modules have a completely different profile: gap year students, academic internship, people in search of in-depth knowledge of the bush, nature lover, etc.
We expect from the participants a real implication within the group, as well as the participation in all the tasks of upkeep and maintenance of the camp and the vehicles. Students will learn to pay attention to the needs and safety of their partners, to be responsible for each other in a wild environment, and to work as a team.
The objective of this training is to develop and consolidate the practical skills and knowledge acquired as part of the FGASA level 1 guide training. At the same time, you will improve your knowledge and awareness of the environment.
It is also accessible to those looking for an opportunity to experience wilderness and develop personal skills.
The Safari Guide course is for those who want to experience the bush and get to know the environment. Thanks to these 28 days spent in nature, you will be able to acquire solid skills and knowledge about nature.
You will have the chance to learn the traditional art of tracking. You will have an overview of ancestral know-how. Indeed, we are working to revive and sustain indigenous knowledge, collaborating with some of the last local experts.
EcoQuest training has two quite distinct aspects: getting to know nature, and living the daily experiences of a safari guide in the field. And in addition, you will learn to drive a 4x4, to identify birds, trees and other plants, and to track animals.
This training allows bird lovers and nature guides to acquire the basics of bird identification or to develop their knowledge in this area. If part of the training is theoretical, it is also and above all a practical training. It involves many hours spent in the field.
This is about learning the secrets behind successful nature photos. Photographers will also have the opportunity to put their learning into practice in the field, accompanied by an experienced professional. Morning and afternoon, the participants will be in the bush and will try to take the best shots. These outings will be followed by indoor sessions, dedicated to the analysis of the photos taken during the day, and which will be subject to constructive criticism.
This absolutely unique course is intended to offer future guides and nature lovers the opportunity to discover nature and be in communion with it, through unforgettable encounters. The training emphasizes the philosophy of nature and tracking. Participants will learn to have as little impact as possible during their activities. It is led by the most experienced trainer guides in Africa, as part of nature guide training.
Our organization is the leading nature guide training organization in Africa. Since 1993, we have trained more than 4000 student guides, young and old, from all over the world.
We run trainings all over Africa, from South Africa to Gabon, and from Kenya to Namibia. We are particularly proud of the work accomplished with local populations, in Gabon, Zambia, Botswana, South Africa, Swaziland, Namibia and Kenya: we have helped them to develop skills that have enabled them to find jobs in the eco-tourism sector.
Certifications and Accreditations of the Training Organization:
– THE FIELD GUIDES ASSOCIATION OF SOUTHERN AFRICA (FGASA)
– The Culture, Art, Tourism, Hospitality and Sports Sector Education and Training Authority (CATHSSETA)
– THE KENYA PROFESSIONAL SAFARI GUIDES ASSOCIATION (KPSGA)
– BOTSWANA QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY
We run trainings all over Africa, from South Africa to Gabon, and from Kenya to Namibia. We are particularly proud of the work accomplished with local populations, in Gabon, Zambia, Botswana, South Africa, Swaziland, Namibia and Kenya: we have helped them to develop skills that have enabled them to find jobs in the eco-tourism sector.
Certifications and Accreditations of the Training Organization:
- THE FIELD GUIDES ASSOCIATION OF SOUTHERN AFRICA (FGASA)
- The Culture, Art, Tourism, Hospitality and Sports Sector Education and Training Authority (CATHSSETA)
- THE KENYA PROFESSIONAL SAFARI GUIDES ASSOCIATION (KPSGA)
- BOTSWANA QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY
This program is available from 1 to 52 weeks, Please contact us for rates and availability.
| Duration | Fees to be paid upon registration |
|---|---|
| 4 Weeks | 4490€ |
| 8 Weeks | 6790€ |
| 52 Weeks | 20590€ |
Housing is allocated by local NGOs, not by Freepackers - the descriptions are there to give you an idea of the type of accommodation, as it is very likely that conditions will vary on site depending on the number of volunteers, weather conditions, availability, etc. Each volunteer will be accommodated according to the stated conditions, but it is possible that the accommodation may not match the description or images shown on this site word for word, for example, in the case of annexed housing, renovations, relocations, etc.
In all our camps, students are housed in single-sex double tents (except for couples). For single occupancy, a supplement applies.
All meals are included during the practical training, in the camps and reserves of our partner organisation. During the practical internship, we cannot guarantee that the same conditions will apply, as this will depend on the policies of the partner reserves and lodges.
After the training, you can be directed to a "junior" position as a guide in South Africa, even if the emphasis is on employing locals. You will need to do additional training to qualify for positions of responsibility. The training organization can give you information on higher education and ways to find a job, but they do not guarantee you a job at the end of the training.
This training organization is highly recognized for the quality of its nature guide training. The complete nature safari guide training opens doors in this sector and gives access to job opportunities.
Please contact the embassy or immigration website of the country you wish to enter.
You can find all ressources on the World Organization Website, in the Travel Advice section A vaccine vial.
For all international projects, Realstep requires participants to take out travel insurance covering accidents, illness, and repatriation, as well as civil liability for professional activities abroad.
For complete protection while studying or interning abroad, you can take out Cap Student insurance online by following this link Student insurance abroad | Chapka Assurances, which will give you a 5% discount.
If you take out another insurance policy, we will ask you to send us a copy of your certificate in English.
Achieve the language level required for your international project with tailored support. The Clic-campus method Free Packers X Clic Campus foreign language training courses combines videoconference lessons and an innovative e-learning platform, offering complete flexibility from the comfort of your own home.
A gap year is a period (often 6 to 12 months) during which you temporarily pause your studies or work to have a meaningful, structured experience: travel, volunteering, internship, job, personal project…
It can be done at any time, for the duration you choose, and in the field you want. The goal is to help you explore new possibilities for your personal and/or professional path.
Real Step offers a wide range of gap year programs abroad in various fields.
Anyone! A gap year can be taken at any age and is not limited to 18–25-year-olds. It can be done at any stage of life—whether for a career change, a lifestyle change, to explore different options, or to refine a professional project.
A gap year allows you to:
It depends on the country and your project. Make sure to budget for:
Internships during a gap year are varied, and you have a wide choice of fields:
Interns are accommodated in shared houses, hostels, or sometimes with local host families. You will have access to all essential amenities and are often close to shops so you can easily find what you need.
Departure dates are flexible; it is possible to leave every week. Please contact us to find out about program availability.
This depends on the missions. Local coordinators are on site to facilitate communication, but a minimum B1 level is often recommended to communicate locally. Some technical or research placements may require a higher level.
You can take language classes before you leave for your project.
The participation requirements are listed on each program page.
Yes, you will have a local coordinator on site as your main point of contact to answer your questions, ensure your safety, and support you if needed. You will always have an orientation upon arrival, including: an introduction to the project, the local team, your missions, and the rules to follow. The team also explains safety guidelines (recommended behavior, areas to avoid).
Local emergency assistance is available 24/7. We remain reachable throughout the entire project.
In addition, the projects we offer are carefully selected with reliable partners and in suitable destinations.
Internship schedules may vary depending on your program. In general, you will work between 30 and 40 hours per week. We specify these conditions on the program pages or in the downloadable brochures.
Yes, absolutely! Real Step internships are open to solo travelers, pairs, or groups. Many schools and students even organize group departures through our programs.
There are many diverse destinations: Asia, Europe, Africa, and Latin America—all around the world!
By joining a project with us, you are supported at every step.
You can contact us to explain your situation. If you have valid reasons to request a new placement, we will send you a request form. You will be informed as soon as a spot becomes available. You will then be able to change location, subject to availability.
There are different ways to finance part of your project. We have several resources to help you find funding support, whether through student mobility scholarships, Erasmus+ funding for projects in Europe, or regional grants. Some volunteers have also organized group fundraising initiatives.
For young people aged 18 to 30, it is possible to go abroad with a Working Holiday Visa (WHV) and work on site to finance part of the project.
Even without financial aid, a well-prepared project can be made accessible through a mix of “savings + fundraising + a job on site”.
Find all the information on funding your internship in this article.
The price covers accommodation, supervision, part of the local organization (meals, orientation), Freepackers’ expertise, and support for the projects. Part of the project fee is used to help develop the project on site. Our teams visit the projects to ensure they are safe, useful, and reliable.
Yes, you will have free time and you can go out, visit places, and travel, especially on weekends. You just need to respect the program’s organization (schedule, mission days) and follow the safety guidelines given by the local team. In some destinations, the team can also recommend places to explore.
Here are the essential mandatory steps to complete:
Other steps may be necessary depending on the type of internship, the country, or other factors.
Our team will provide you with all the information you need.
No, most of the internships we offer are unpaid, but this can vary depending on the host organization, the duration, and the country.
Yes, many students have validated their internship through Real Step projects. Our placements meet schools’ academic requirements.
A wide range of internships is available, and our programs are suitable for many engineering fields, such as:
Feel free to contact us to learn about all our internship opportunities.
See our Ultimate Guide to Succeeding in Your Engineering Internship.
This can vary depending on your school and your year of study, but in general you can go for 4 to 16 weeks.
Three months is often the duration required by schools to help you develop skills. To learn more about 3-month engineering internships.
Your missions can vary greatly depending on your specialty and your level of study and commitment, but overall you will be asked to take part in:
The goal is to encourage the practical application of the knowledge you have gained during your studies—skills you will be able to highlight later on.
Find our detailed advice in our guide Engineering internship cover letter: land an international experience.
Yes, many students have validated their internship through Real Step projects. Our placements meet schools’ academic requirements.
We offer many internships in a wide range of areas, such as:
Even though some details vary depending on the country, here are the main steps:
To understand the exact process, we recommend reading this article in detail.
You can go on a WHV to the following destinations:
Check our website to make sure you don’t miss a program—or contact us!
The budget needed for a WHV depends on the country you choose, your lifestyle, and the length of your stay.
Expenses to plan for:
Yes. You can take English or Spanish courses before you leave, or even during your project.
Course schedules are flexible depending on your goal. You can choose to take a few hours per week, or fully focus on your language courses over a longer period to prepare for a project such as a WHV or a job abroad.
Les Français n’ont pas besoin de visa pour aller au Japon pour des séjours de moins de 3 mois, le passeport suffit. En revanche, un business visa ou un visa vacances travail (working holiday visa) sont indispensables pour rester plus de 3 mois, par exemple si vous prévoyez de travailler ou de faire un stage au Japon. Il faut alors faire la démarche à la section consulaire de l’Ambassade.
Il est de votre responsabilité de choisir le bon visa pour votre projet.
Les conditions de visa peuvent changer et le visa dépend de la nature de votre projet. Veuillez toujours vérifier sur France Diplomatie avant de réserver votre billet et de partir pour un programme et de vous y prendre en avance.
Traditionally, Japanese dress codes are formal: a dark suit, white shirt, and dark tie. However, foreign businesspeople can dress as they normally would in their home country. It is also often customary to remove your shoes (at home, in some restaurants, etc.).
The yen is Japan’s official currency.
The cost of living in Japan is 2.6% higher than in France.
When traveling, plan for an on-site budget of at least €80 per day per person (¥11,595 per day).
Most dietary requirements (kosher, vegetarian, halal, etc.) can be accommodated, provided you request it well in advance.
Our local partners in Tokyo arrange airport pick-up at the international airport every Friday. For students enrolled in internships outside the city, instructions for reaching the final destinations will be provided in advance or upon arrival.
Either in the main residence in Tokyo, at the internship location when it is remote (natural reserves, for example), or with a host family. This sea turtle conservation internship in Japan includes accommodation. Japan’s housing shortage has triggered an unprecedented surge in prices, so it is strongly recommended to have accommodation arranged in advance for at least the first month of your stay.
Working holiday and internship programs include free time every weekend so participants can explore the surrounding area. Project coordinators and local organizations are always happy to share advice on places to visit and the excursions available on weekends.
It depends on the program you choose. For those who want to stay for 1 year on a Working Holiday Visa on projects involving a paid job like this one, it is strongly recommended to take Japanese classes upon arrival (4 weeks of intensive courses) to broaden your job search options.
In fact, most jobs in retail, services, or the hospitality industry require an intermediate level of Japanese. For 3-month internships, these can be done in tourism organizations that only require English. Farm work does not require a high level of Japanese either.
To travel to Japan, spring—especially April/May—is the recommended period. Summer in Japan is the rainy season. June and July are particularly wet, and the heat starts to build. Temperatures range between 25°C and 30°C.
Currently, people who are allowed to travel to Japan are not required to be vaccinated. For real-time updates, we invite you to consult the Institut Pasteur website.
The local partner provides 24/7 assistance. Participants receive the coordinators’ contact details in advance, as well as an emergency number to call. The coordinators are available at all times, during the week and on weekends.
Look into official channels to find opportunities. It is also important to adapt your application to the country’s norms (the CV and cover letter are different).
Finally, Real Step offers internships in Japan in various fields that may interest you! In ecology or even IT, communication, marketing, etc.
It depends on the company and the length of the internship. In Japan, working conditions are different, so it’s important to focus above all on learning and cultural immersion.
