South African trails guide with backpack and rifle.

PK Podcast 61: James Steyn, FGASA Scout on Walking Safaris, Guiding Standards and Tracking at the Highest Level

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In this episode of The Paul Kirtley Podcast I speak with James Steyn, a highly experienced trails guide, trainer and assessor, and one of only a dozen people to have achieved FGASA Scout status – the top combined guiding and tracking qualification in southern Africa.

James is General Manager of Senalala Safari Lodge in the Klaserie, part of the Greater Kruger, where walking safaris are a core guest experience. Over more than 30 years in the field, he has worked in both national parks and the private sector, guided wilderness trails in Kruger, and played a role in training and assessing the next generation of guides.

In our conversation we discuss:

James’s journey from growing up near Kruger to becoming a professional guide;
The influence of legendary conservationist Dr. Ian Player and the early anti-poaching units;
Life as a wilderness trails ranger in Kruger National Park;
How guiding standards have evolved, and what FGASA qualifications represent;
The CyberTracker system and the demanding path to becoming a Senior Tracker;
What it takes to earn the elite Scout qualification;
Safety considerations when guiding on foot in dangerous game country.

James offers valuable insights into what makes a truly great guide, the discipline of high-level tracking, and why walking safaris remain one of the most powerful wilderness experiences in Africa.

Our conversation forms Episode 61 of the Paul Kirtley Podcast…

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