Trailblazing the Future of Adventure Guiding in SA

The Adventure Guide Chapter Is Taking Off! Are You In?

Picture this: You’re leading a group of thrill-seekers through rugged terrain, adrenaline pumping, nature roaring around you. They’re relying on your expertise, training, and gut instincts to navigate this adventure safely. But here’s the thing—not everyone out there is playing by the rules.

Adventure tourism in South Africa is booming, but the guides steering the industry aren’t always qualified—and that’s a problem. Enter SA AIA’s Adventure Guide Chapter, the newest powerhouse driving professionalism, safety, and recognition in the adventure guiding world.

At our latest chapter meeting, we got real about the challenges guides face, from unregistered and unqualified operators to lack of career growth—and we’re here to fix it.

Who’s Leading the Charge? Meet Your New Chapter Chair!

Every adventure needs a fearless leader, and we’ve got one! The Adventure Guide Chapter now has an official Chair (cue the drumroll!). Kathy Leverton with the support of a group of accomplished and fearless guides, will steer the chapter’s goals, fight for recognition, and create opportunities for guides across SA.

They’re not just here for the title—they’re here to make real changes that impact guides like YOU.

Unprofessional Operators Are Out. Professionalism Is In.

Let’s address the elephant in the bushveld: Unregistered and unqualified guides are watering down the industry and putting clients at risk.

What’s the Plan?

🚨 Push for enforcement: We’re working with tourism regulators to clamp down on unprofessional guiding.📢 Educate the public: Clients need to know why hiring a trained, registered guide matters.⚖️ Protect qualified guides: You’ve invested in your training, and that should count for something! Support aspiring guide: You're keen on the industry but need that little extra push.

The days of fly-by-night operators undercutting professionals? Numbered.

CPD & Training: Because No One Wants a Rusty Guide

Adventure guiding isn’t just about knowing your way around a mountain—it’s about staying sharp, skilled, and safe.

Workshops & Training: From risk assessment to survival skills—sharpen your game; Making training more accessible: Training providers shouldn’t only exist in Cape Town & Joburg. We’re working on that; Networking opportunities: Because who you know can be as important as what you know.

Let’s keep learning and level up together.

A Guide for Every Trail: Career Growth & Mentorship

So, you love adventure. But what’s next?

One of the biggest challenges adventure guides face is figuring out a clear career path. Right now, there’s no structured way to progress beyond just “being a guide”—and that needs to change.

That’s why we’re starting work on defining real career pathways for adventure guides, creating mentorship opportunities, and building a framework that helps guides grow their skills, gain experience, and move up in the industry.

What’s the plan?

Developing a clear career structure – We’ll be working with industry experts to map out levels of experience, specializations, and leadership roles.
Creating mentorship opportunities – New guides need hands-on experience and guidance, and we’re going to help connect them with the right mentors.
Providing ongoing training & professional development – Because guiding isn’t just about certification—it’s about continually improving your skills.

This is just the beginning, and we’re calling on all adventure guides to help us shape this future together. Got ideas? Join the discussion and let’s build something great!

Big Moves: Our Regional Adventurous Reflections Conferences Are Coming!

Mark your calendars—we’re bringing the adventure to YOU!

Drakensberg Regional Conference – 14 - 16 July 2025
Western Cape Regional Conference – Date TBC

Expect:Hands-on workshops; Panel talks with industry leaders; Networking with top adventure professionals; Training Opportunities

Have topics you want covered? Let us know!

Ready to Be Part of Something Bigger?

The Adventure Guide Chapter isn’t just a talking shop—it’s a movement. Whether you’re an experienced guide, a young pro, or an aspiring adventurer, this is YOUR time to join the change.

Here’s How You Can Get Involved:

Sign up as a member: Gain access to training, events, and advocacy.
Join our events: Be part of the discussions shaping your industry.
Spread the word: Let’s educate the public on hiring qualified guides.

Adventure guides deserve more respect, more recognition, and more opportunities. Together, we’re making that happen

Are you in? Sign up today and let’s build the future of adventure guiding!