Company: Department of Tourism & SANParks
Industry: Tourism, Conservation, Public Service
Job Category: Internship / Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP)
Location: South Africa (Various National Parks Nationwide)
Contract Type: Fixed-Term (7 Months)
Remuneration: R200/day (Approx. R8,000/month)
EE Position: Yes (Inclusive of persons with disabilities)
Closing Date: 30 July 2025
Introduction
The Department of Tourism, in collaboration with South African National Parks (SANParks), has officially launched applications for the 2025/26 Tourism Monitors Programme. This empowering initiative is part of the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) aimed at reducing youth unemployment, enhancing tourism safety, and promoting environmental conservation.
With 250 available positions, this seven-month opportunity provides unemployed youth with exposure to one of South Africa’s fastest-growing sectors—tourism—while offering structured work experience across various National Parks in the country.
Job Description
The Tourism Monitors Programme integrates practical fieldwork with classroom-based training to equip young people with the necessary competencies for the tourism and conservation industries. The programme includes:
- Theoretical training in tourism safety, conservation, customer service, and field reporting
- Practical deployments within National Parks to assist with visitor safety, park patrols, guest relations, and conservation awareness
- Daily work at high-tourism areas including entry points, hiking routes, and visitor hubs
- Close mentorship under SANParks officials and tourism professionals
- A daily stipend of R200, totalling roughly R8,000 per month for the duration of the contract
Ideal Candidate
The ideal candidate for the Tourism Monitors Programme should meet the following core requirements:
- Age: 18–35 years
- Status: South African citizen
- Education: Minimum Grade 12 / Matric
- Residency: Must live within 40km–100km from the National Park (proof of residence required – no affidavits)
- Employment Status: Must be unemployed
- Language Proficiency: Literate and fluent in English
- Mobility: Own transport to and from work
- Flexibility: Willingness to work shifts, weekends, and public holidays
Role Responsibility
Selected candidates will perform multiple roles across different tourism and conservation touchpoints. Responsibilities include:
- Monitoring park areas for visitor safety and assisting in park surveillance
- Engaging with tourists, providing information and orientation
- Assisting rangers and park staff in patrols, first-line support, and general maintenance
- Recording observations and contributing to safety and environmental reports
- Supporting conservation awareness campaigns and guided tours
- Coordinating with local tourism offices for event or emergency planning
- Participating in community outreach, environmental clean-up, and awareness drives
Skills and Attributes
Core Competencies:
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
- Ability to remain alert and observant in natural environments
- Sound knowledge of local tourism attractions and heritage
- Conflict resolution and basic first-aid skills (advantageous)
- Commitment to environmental stewardship and public safety
Physical Fitness:
Shortlisted applicants may undergo fitness assessments such as:
- 2.4km timed run
- 25 push-ups
- 25 sit-ups
These are essential to ensure the candidate is capable of handling the physical demands of outdoor tourism support and patrolling duties.
Position Summary
The SANParks Tourism Monitors Programme 2025/26 represents a life-changing opportunity for South African youth to be part of a meaningful, national effort to uplift the tourism and conservation sectors. Participants will gain work readiness, practical experience, and structured training within some of the most beautiful and ecologically significant landscapes in South Africa.
The programme not only addresses high youth unemployment but also fosters local tourism development, enhances safety, and empowers communities to participate actively in protecting national assets. Participants will benefit from:
- Daily compensation
- Valuable professional references
- Practical skill development in tourism, conservation, and hospitality
- Networking opportunities within the public sector
This EPWP-aligned initiative is inclusive, encouraging participation from people living with disabilities, provided they meet the required physical and educational standards.
Application Process
To apply, candidates must submit the following:
- Detailed CV
- Certified copies of ID and highest qualification (dated within 3 months)
- Proof of residence (not older than 3 months, no affidavits allowed)
General SA Youth Application Portal:
https://sayouth.mobi/Join (Data-free)
Example Application Channels by National Park:
- Addo Elephant National Park (10 Posts)
- Municipality: Dr Sundays River
- Apply: https://forms.office.com/r/g6ihTKQgaH
- Email: addovacancies@sanparks.org
- Table Mountain National Park – Boulders (5 Posts)
- Municipality: City of Cape Town
- Apply: https://forms.office.com/r/3NV1JtFnML
- Email: TMNP.vacancies@sanparks.org
- Kruger National Park – Marula Region (30 Posts)
- Municipality: Bushbuckridge, Mbombela, Nkomazi
- Deliver documents physically to: BSP Offices, Paul Kruger Gate, Skukuza
- Email: Foen.Ngobeni@sanparks.org
Each park may have unique submission instructions—applicants are advised to visit SANParks’ official page or contact the park directly for specific details.
Final Notes:
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted
- Participation is limited to one applicant per household
- No accommodation or transport is provided by SANParks
- The programme duration is 7 months, starting shortly after the application deadline
- Fitness, medical, and criminal background checks will form part of the final selection process
Take the First Step
If you’re passionate about nature, interested in tourism, and ready to work outdoors in dynamic and protected environments, then this opportunity is for you. Apply now and become part of South Africa’s efforts to protect, serve, and grow our tourism and natural heritage sectors.
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