How to Become a Game Ranger: An Interview with Jason Kipling

Being a game ranger is perfect if you’re interested in a career related to conservation, but it requires a wide range of skills. Being a ranger may seem glamorous, but it’s not all fun and games. While we’re sleeping in our cozy beds, rangers are already up at 3:00 am, getting the Land Rovers ready and ensuring the cooler box is well-stocked. It’s hard work, like most jobs, and it’s certainly not a walk in the park. The vital ingredient in becoming a ranger is passion. You have to truly love people, the environment, and wildlife.

I had the opportunity to speak with Jason Kipling, a game ranger at Umkumbe Safari Lodge. He shared his experiences and insights about what it’s like to work in this exciting profession. Whether you’re considering a career change, planning a gap year, going through a mid-life crisis, or just starting out, Jason’s story might help you decide if being a game ranger is the right path for you.

What kind of qualifications are necessary to become a game ranger?

Hey there! Have you ever wondered what it takes to become a professional field guide? Well, guess what? I’m here to tell you all about it! So, let’s dive right in!

First things first, if you want to work as a field guide in Southern Africa, you need to study the FGASA syllabus. “FGASA” stands for the “Field Guides Association of Southern Africa.” It’s like a big rulebook that helps guides like me work legally and safely in this amazing field.

Now, you might be wondering what levels of guides there are, right? Well, there are three main levels: level 1, 2, and 3. Each level teaches you different skills and knowledge that you’ll need to become an awesome guide.

But hey, if you think you’ve got what it takes to do walking safaris in areas with dangerous game, there’s a little extra something you’ll need. It’s called the trails guide theory and practical assessments. Trust me, it’s worth it!

So, where did I study to become a field guide? Well, I went to this awesome place called Bushwise. It’s located at the Makalali Private Game Reserve in Limpopo. I gotta say, it was one of the best experiences of my life!

Now, let’s talk about what we actually learn in the FGASA syllabus. It covers all sorts of interesting topics like animal behavior (ethology), birds, reptiles, amphibians, botany, grasses, ecology, astronomy, survival skills, and a whole lot more! I mean, we learn it all to make sure we’re prepared for anything that comes our way.

So, there you have it, my friend! If you’ve ever dreamed of becoming a field guide and exploring the African bush, studying the FGASA syllabus is the way to go. It’s a wild adventure that opens up a whole new world of knowledge, and I promise you won’t regret it!

No, I’m from Cape Town, but I spent a lot of time in Botswana, Kalahari, and the Kruger National Park.

So, what led me to become a ranger? Well, after going on many bush holidays, I couldn’t stand the feeling of returning to the “real world.” I knew I wanted to live and stay in the bush.

Now, what kind of personality does it take to become a ranger? You really need to be a sociable person with great people skills! Being outgoing is a huge plus because this job isn’t for the shy types. As a ranger or guide, you’ll spend about 16 hours a day with guests and staff. So, being friendly and personable is key.

How long have I been a ranger? I’ve been in the guiding industry for 6 years now, and I can honestly say they’ve been the best 6 years of my life!

Let me tell you about my typical day. I want to share all the details with you!

Every day, I wake up bright and early at 4:30 in the morning. Before waking up the guests, I make sure to prepare coffee or tea for them. And while I’m at it, I take a moment to grab a quick cup of coffee for myself. Then, it’s time for a morning drive or walk, which is always a great way to start the day. We soak in the beauty of nature and enjoy the fresh air. By around 8:30, it’s breakfast time, and we gather together for a delicious meal.

Once the departing guests are ready to leave, I bid them farewell and begin preparing for the arrival of new guests. In the midst of all this, I attend to the needs of the current guests and take care of any necessary maintenance tasks around the camp. It’s important to ensure that everything is in perfect order for everyone’s comfort and enjoyment. And of course, I warmly welcome and assist the new guests to settle in.

By 2:30 in the afternoon, it’s time for a quick lunch break. After that, I take note of the sundowner orders from my guests and prepare the cooler along with snack boxes for our afternoon drive. We want to make sure everyone has a delightful and refreshing experience during the drive.

Hey there! Let me tell you about my daily routine as a ranger – it’s quite the adventure! Starting around 03:30 or 04:00, I head out for the afternoon or night drive. I love taking my guests with me as we explore the wilderness. We stay out until around 07:30 when it’s time for a hearty dinner.

As a host, I ensure my guests have a fabulous time. Before, during, and after dinner, I serve them delicious drinks and make sure they’re enjoying themselves. After dinner, we all gather around the cozy fire, and I share some of my captivating stories with them. It’s always a treat to see their faces light up with excitement!

When my guests are ready to call it a night, I escort them back to their rooms, making sure they’re safe and sound. Safety is my top priority! Once everyone has settled in for the night, I get to work restocking the bar and securing the lodge. It’s a bit of a night owl job, but I love every minute of it!

And of course, after a long day, I take some time to catch a few hours of sleep. It’s crucial to recharge for the next exciting day ahead!

Now, let’s talk about the advantages and disadvantages of being a ranger. There are a few things to consider.

So, let’s talk about the pros of working in the bush, because there are so many, especially if you love nature like I do! I mean, seriously, just imagine having the honor and privilege of working in one of the most naturally beautiful places in the world. Your office would be Africa! How amazing is that? The longer you stay in the bush, the more it grows on you, and the deeper your respect and understanding of the natural systems become. It’s like a peaceful, safe haven that’s just so BIG. And here’s the best part – you get to see and experience something new every single day. If you’re open to it, you’ll also learn something new every day too!

Now, let’s talk about the not-so-great stuff. The cons, if you will. One of the downsides of working in the bush is that you’ll be dealing with all different types of people 24/7. And let’s face it, not everyone you come across will be nice. It’s just the reality of the situation. Plus, you’ll be working seven days a week, usually for six weeks at a time, so your social life might quickly become non-existent. And if you’re working at a small lodge, it can get pretty lonely at times.

Now, I have a question for you. What has been your most dangerous encounter in the bush? Share your story with me!

There was this one time when a massive elephant bull charged right at me. He was in musth and he came so close, his tusks almost touching me! And just the other day, I was out following lion tracks on foot when I suddenly noticed a leopard lying less than a meter away from me. Talk about scary! But I just kept walking as if I hadn’t seen him.

So, let me ask you this: Did you receive any on-the-job training for driving those Land Rovers and Land Cruisers?

I did receive some basic training, but you know what they say – experience is priceless!

Now, I’m curious, what has been your most unforgettable experience as a ranger?

Wow, that’s a tough one. Personally, I find every moment special, but I have to say that the times when I have the camp all to myself are truly remarkable. It’s a rare opportunity for me to have some “me time” with nature. Usually, I hop in my car, find a spot, and witness a breathtaking sunset while immersing myself in the sounds of the bush. It’s incredible to see how the day slowly transforms into night.

What do you love about the reserve where you currently work?

The reserve I work in, Sabi Sand, is connected to the vast Kruger National Park. As a result, it’s a pristine natural ecosystem with very little human interference. One of the things that make this place special is the abundance of big game and the diverse landscapes and scenery. It’s truly a place where nature thrives.

Hey there! I want to talk to you about elephants. They’re amazing creatures, don’t you think? I mean, have you ever seen one up close? They really are something else.

I remember the time I saw an elephant walking past the Umkumbe Safari Lodge. It was absolutely mind-blowing! The sheer size of that creature was incomprehensible. I stood there in awe, watching as it gracefully moved with so much power. It was like witnessing a real-life giant in action.

But you know what’s even more incredible? The fact that elephants are known for their intelligence. I’m not kidding! They’re up there with some of the smartest animals out there. And you know what they say, “With great intelligence comes great complexity.”

Elephants have this incredible ability to communicate with each other in ways we can only imagine. They use infrasound, which is a very low-frequency sound that humans can’t even hear. It’s like they have a secret language, allowing them to send messages to each other over long distances. How cool is that?

Another thing that fascinates me about elephants is their strong family bonds. They live in tight-knit family groups called herds, led by a wise and experienced matriarch. These herds stick together through thick and thin, supporting and protecting each other. It’s a beautiful example of love and unity.

Now, let’s not forget about their appearance. Elephants are just majestic creatures. Their massive bodies, long trunks, and those huge, iconic tusks… they’re truly one-of-a-kind. And did you know that an elephant’s trunk has over 40,000 muscles? That’s mind-boggling!

But here’s the thing. Elephants are also facing many challenges in today’s world. They’re threatened by habitat loss, illegal poaching for their ivory, and conflicts with humans. It breaks my heart to think that such amazing creatures are in danger.

So, what can we do to help? Well, there are plenty of organizations out there working to protect elephants and their habitats. By supporting these organizations, we can make a difference. Every little bit counts, right?

In conclusion, elephants are truly remarkable animals. Their intelligence, communication skills, and strong family bonds make them extraordinary. We need to do everything we can to protect them, so future generations can also have the chance to witness these incredible giants up close.

Hey there, I’m Jason Kipling, and right now I’m working out of the awesome Umkumbe Safari Lodge. It’s a pretty amazing place to be, surrounded by the wonders of nature and wildlife. Honestly, I feel like I’m living in a dream!

Being out here in the wild, I get to experience things that most people can only imagine. It’s not just a job for me, it’s a passion. The thrill of the chase, the excitement of getting up close to these magnificent creatures, it’s a feeling like no other. And let me tell you, it’s not always easy. Sometimes the animals can be elusive, and it takes a lot of patience and skill to track them down.

But that’s what makes it so rewarding. When you finally come face to face with a lion or a leopard, it’s a moment you’ll never forget. You can feel your heart racing as you watch them in their natural habitat, going about their daily lives. It’s a humbling experience, one that reminds you of just how incredible our world is.

So whether you’re an avid adventurer or just looking to escape the daily grind, a safari is an experience you won’t want to miss. It’s a chance to step out of your comfort zone and explore a world beyond your wildest dreams. And if you’re anything like me, it’ll quickly become an addiction. The thrill of the hunt, the beauty of the animals, it’s something that will stay with you forever.

So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to embark on the adventure of a lifetime. Trust me, you won’t regret it.

Being a ranger has its perks, and one of the most rewarding aspects is spotting game.

I’m out in the wilderness, tracking a lion with my trusty partner, Jason. We carefully study the fresh tracks, trying to decipher where the majestic beast might be heading. It’s thrilling and slightly unnerving at the same time. There’s an element of danger lurking around every corner, always keeping us on our toes. The thrill of the hunt is palpable, but there’s also a sense of responsibility to protect ourselves and the lion.

As we continue tracking, I can’t help but think about the importance of our role in preserving these incredible creatures. Lions are known as the kings of the jungle, and their presence in the wild is crucial for maintaining the balance of nature. They play a vital role in the ecosystem, ensuring that other species have enough prey to survive.

Understanding the significance of lions in the natural world is essential for anyone who loves and appreciates wildlife. It’s not just about the excitement of spotting these majestic creatures; it’s about understanding their role and the impact they have on the environment.

When you’re out tracking lions, it’s important to remember that these animals are more than just symbols of power and strength. They are living beings with their own needs and desires. By observing their behavior and studying their movements, we can gain a deeper understanding of their lives and the challenges they face.

If you’re passionate about wildlife and conservation, tracking lions is an exhilarating experience that will deepen your connection to nature. It’s an opportunity to witness firsthand the delicate balance of life in the wild and to contribute to the efforts to protect these magnificent creatures.

With every step we take in the jungle, we are reminded of the immense responsibility we have as caretakers of the natural world. By following the lion’s tracks and learning from their behavior, we can play a small part in ensuring their survival for generations to come.