Expedition Leader (Botswana)

Natural Habitat Adventures is currently seeking experienced Expedition Leaders to guide our Southern Africa Odyssey Nature Journeys starting in June 2027.

Our Expedition Leaders are among the best in the business. They are highly educated naturalists and experienced guides who are committed to conservation and deeply passionate about the wild places they share with our guests. Through their professional, enthusiastic leadership, they deliver exceptional guest experiences and inspire travelers.

Using their expertise in environmental education, our Expedition Leaders enrich each journey by interpreting the natural world and meaningfully connecting guests with nature, culture and conservation. They help guests deepen their understanding of wildlife, ecosystems, conservation successes and ongoing challenges, while also fostering a sense of curiosity, respect and stewardship. Our Expedition Leaders engage travelers of all backgrounds through thoughtful storytelling, inclusive communication and attentive, personalized service. They also prioritize guest well-being, consistently delivering outstanding customer service and maintaining a strong focus on safety.

Many of our guests are seasoned global travelers, yet they choose to travel with Nat Hab because of our leaders’ rare blend of scientific knowledge and professional guiding expertise. In the realm of nature-focused adventure travel, it is our Expedition Leaders’ commitment to excellence, education and conservation that sets us apart.

To support local communities and provide guests with authentic local insight and cultural perspective, we prioritize hiringField Team members who are from the regions we travel to. Only candidates currently residing in Botswana and legally authorized to work in Botswana will be considered.

QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE

• At least five years of professional guiding experience leading multi-day, small-group tours; a bachelor's degree in natural sciences or a related field; or an equivalent combination of education and guiding experience required
• Fluency in English required
  
• Required credentials and certifications (must be current and obtained before your first scheduled trip):
  • Wilderness First Aid Certification or equivalent locally recognized outdoor first aid training (minimum 16 hours)
  • CPR Certification
    
• Professional guiding experience in the specific destinations listed in the trip itinerary preferred
  
• FGASA Professional Field Guide certification preferred
  
• Demonstrated experience providing natural history interpretation, including explaining wildlife behavior and ecological relationships
• Deep knowledge of and passion for the region’s natural history, including wildlife ecology, habitats, ecosystems, and conservation
  
• Ability to consistently deliver engaging, accurate, and compelling research-based educational interpretation in both formal presentations and informal field settings, going beyond introductory-level science
• Skilled at spotting wildlife and facilitating safe, respectful wildlife viewing, with a strong commitment to ethical and minimal-impact practices
• Strong customer service and group management skills with attention to individual guest needs, ensuring a high level of care while supporting guest preparedness
• Ability to create and maintain a positive, inclusive, and cohesive group environment
• Exceptional communication skills with the ability to clearly inform diverse guests on safety, logistics, expectations, and interpretation, as well as communicate professionally and promptly with external partners and Nat Hab internal teams
• Confident, calm problem-solver with sound judgment and the ability to make independent decisions in challenging, dynamic environments
• Professional, proactive, and solutions-oriented, with a high level of integrity, maturity, patience, adaptability, and enthusiasm
• Photography knowledge with experience providing professional photography instruction preferred

OPERATIONAL EXPECTATIONS

• Dependable availability throughout the operating season for this itinerary preferred, with full availability from June 25-July 4 and July 15-July 24, 2027 required
  
• Capable of working long hours for multiple consecutive days in a physically and mentally demanding setting
• Must comfortably and reliably meet all the minimum physical requirements outlined for this itinerary
  
• When necessary, willingness to share accommodations and collaborate as part of a two-guide expedition team while supporting shared responsibilities related to guest experience, safety, and logistics

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS

This is an independent contractor role compensated at a competitive daily rate, commensurate with experience, plus gratuities. Contractors are eligible for annual rate increases based on performance.

Nat Hab provides branded gear as well as meals and any required transportation and lodging while on assignment.

To support destination-specific learning and professional development, Nat Hab also offers a Learning Stipend. All Expedition Leaders receive $100 USD ($140 CAD) for their first season guiding Nat Hab trips in a new region and $50 ($70 CAD) in subsequent seasons.

Nat Hab also offers a visual media compensation program for approved marketing content contributions, including photography, video, and social media assets. Additional benefits include gear and travel discounts.

DIVERSITY & INCLUSION STATEMENT
Natural Habitat Adventures is a growing company that welcomes applicants from diverse backgrounds. We seek to foster and maintain a welcoming, inclusive and high-performing culture in our office and in the field. Even if you don’t have experience in the travel sector, we invite you to show us how you can help Nat Hab become an even stronger company.

DISCLAIMER STATEMENT
This job description is intended only to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by an incumbent in this position. It is not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills or abilities required of persons so classified or assigned.

Applicants who are not currently residing in Botswana and legally authorized to work in Botswana will automatically be disqualified and therefore will not be reviewed.

**If applying for multiple positions, please only submit one application for the position you are most qualified for and mention your interest in other positions within your cover letter.**