Read through our list of frequently asked questions, and if you don’t find the answers you are looking for, you are welcome to contact us.
I am an international student – what do I need to know?
A trip to South Africa needs some planning – especially if you come from abroad. Click here to send us an email and we will provide information as to:
- Study Visa*
- Finances
- Medical aid
- Relevant documents
- Telecommunication
*Please note that immigration regulations are becoming stricter and less transparent. Some embassies do not issue study visas anymore. You can then enter the country on a 90 day tourist visa. You can extend a tourist visa once for another 90 days. We recommend that you return to your country of origin and then re-enter South Africa. Be aware that you might be asked for a return or transfer ticket when using a tourist visa!
You can also visit our downloads page for easy access to key information.
What are the total costs?
Click here to send us an email and we will provide information about costs & conditions of the courses.
When do the courses start?
Our intakes are scheduled for mid-January and mid-July every year. Contact us for the exact dates of your intake.
Can we apply as a couple?
Yes, of course. We will try our best to accommodate you as a couple.
Will there be breaks during the course?
Yes, you will have time off during your course, which will give the opportunity to connect with friends/family or to explore the country. We usually schedule several 1- and 2-week breaks and will close our camp over that period. Contact us for the detailed schedule of your respective intake.
I do not have my own vehicle – how do I get to and from camp?
We will organise your transfer for the first arrival at camp from a meeting point in Johannesburg. From there things usually fall into place as students team up or rent a car in the town nearby for breaks.
I want to bring my own vehicle, is that possible?
Yes, we do provide secure parking on the reserve. Click here for directions.
What does the daily routine look like?
We schedule two 3.5 hour activities per day (game drive or bush-walk AM/PM). The bush is your classroom and you will never stop learning in this amazing environment. In-between activities there is time for meals, lectures, self-study and leisure.
Is there any age limit for the courses?
You should ideally be 18 years for a 6-month and 20 years for the Career Course (due to drivers licence and PrDP). Talk to us if you are younger. Other than that there is no age limit but keep in mind that some activities, especially a Trails Guide course, requires a certain level of physical fitness.
What food will be provided during the course?
We provide 3 full meals a day – nutritious, healthy and tasty. We try our best to cater for dietary requirements – but please keep in mind that we are located in a remote bush camp and have to purchase according to a set menu-plan. For serious dietary requirements there is the option for you to get special groceries/supplements on town trips.
Am I insured during my stay with MORE?
MORE Field Guide College is included in the MORE Public Liability policy. This provides cover for your legal liability for the accidental death or bodily injury or illness of any person, or accidental loss of or damage to property in the course. Please note that you will need insurance for your own property in case of loss or damage due to natural hazards like flood or storm. Our insurance also does not cover personal student-to-student liability (i.e. one student hurts another student). We therefore recommend to consult your travel insurance to include that into your package. You will also need your personal medical aid insurance.
What are the requirements for the lodge placement?
Please note that a placement is earned on merits. You will need the following relevant qualifications by the end of your 6 month course in order to qualify for a placement:
- FGASA Apprentice Field Guide (previously FGASA Field Guide Level 1)
- Wilderness First Aid Level 2
- Advanced Rifle Handling
- FGASA Apprentice Trails Guide (previously FGASA Trails Guide Back up)
- Recommendation from MORE trainers/management
- PrDP (Professional Driving Permit)
Note: An additional placement fee will apply for the MORE Guide & Trails Experience. Should you do a placement at another lodge, outside of the MORE group, please note that MORE Field Guide College can not be held liable anymore. You will fall under the supervision of the external property.
What happens if I fail an exam?
Please note that the first attempt for all exams and assessments is included in your fees. Further attempts will be for your own account. We will of course assist you with the process.
We also want to make you aware that the course will contain book- and workbook studies, presentations, the learning of bird calls and more. Should you have any learning difficulties, please speak to us.
I am an international student. How do I get a study visa and PrDP (Professional Drivers Permit)?
We can refer you to an immigration company, who will be able to assist you with the process.
Will I be guaranteed a job after my course?
As employment is always related to personal performance and vacancies we cannot guarantee a job. Nevertheless, our aim is to take on the best students. As a professional company in the hospitality industry we are also well connected and most likely able to assist you in the right direction. Ideally bring a taxi/minibus license (to transport 10 pax) from your home country, as this is still accepted at National Department of Tourism (status: June 2018)
Are any of the placement lodges situated in a malaria-area?
Marakele National Park (where MORE Field Guide Camp and Marataba are located). But please note that other lodges might be in potential malaria areas. Anti-malarial prophylaxis are therefore highly recommended.
