Live-In, Remote Wilderness Reserve

Location: Northern Cape

Salary: R25 000 - 30 000 per month, negotiable

Benefits include: Medical Aid, Pension, Accommodation, utilties and more.

Employment Type: Permanent, on-site at the reserve

 

We are recruiting an experienced Stables Manager to join one of South Africa’s most respected conservation-led safari destinations in the southern Kalahari.

This is a unique opportunity for an exceptional horse professional to manage all stable operations within a remote, pristine wilderness environment while contributing to a broader conservation mission that has been shaping the landscape for more than 25 years.  As the Stables Manager, you will play a key role in delivering safe, memorable horseback experiences for guests, ensuring the highest standards of horse welfare, and leading a dedicated team with professionalism and care. This is a live-in position on a remote reserve, perfect for someone who thrives outdoors, values purpose-driven work, and finds fulfilment in managing both people and horses to the highest standards.

 

This role is ideal for someone who is passionate about horses, thrives in remote natural environments, and enjoys balancing hands-on operational work with team leadership and guest interaction. It suits a dedicated professional who values purpose, autonomy, and the opportunity to leave a lasting impact.

 

Extensive experience managing horses, stables, and equine operations.

Experience in safari, reserve, or trail-riding environments is beneficial.

Strong riding and horse-handling skills.

Sound knowledge of equine nutrition, health, and conditioning.

Experience leading and supervising staff.

First Aid certification (equine/human) is advantageous.

Valid driver’s licence; PDP and rifle competency are beneficial.

Close attention to safety, detail, and professional guest interaction.

FGASA Certified

 

Manage daily stable operations, including paddocks, feed rooms, tack rooms, and stable areas.
Maintain the health, fitness, welfare, and overall conditioning of all horses.
Develop feeding plans, exercise routines, and stable schedules.
Lead, train, and oversee grooms, horse guides, and stable staff.
Allocate horses appropriately based on guest riding ability and operational needs.
Oversee maintenance, safety, and cleanliness of saddlery, tack, and riding equipment.
Manage veterinary schedules, farrier visits, vaccinations, and medical care.
Implement horse and rider safety protocols and ensure compliance.
Support or lead horseback safaris when needed.
Manage stock, feed orders, bedding, and related equipment budgets.
Maintain accurate horse health, treatment, and workload records.
Collaborate closely with guiding, lodge management, and operations teams.
Assist in training new horses and integrating them into the reserve environment.
Ensure all stable areas remain clean, organised, and guest-ready.

Remote game reserve with early starts, weekends, and public holidays.

Physically demanding, outdoor-focused role.

Live-in position with daily engagement in a wilderness environment.

 

Equal opportunity: All backgrounds are welcome, with no bias. All are considered based on requirements.

Job specifics: Requirements mirror advertisement, duties may adjust for client needs.

Fair process: Fair assessment, only shortlisted candidates contacted due to volume.

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Candidate verification: Candidates selected by the client are verified. False info may disqualify or end employment with the client.

Offer clarity: The Advert is not a binding offer. Written offers based on pre-employment conditions.

No direct link: Advert is not tied to Kontak Recruitment. We assist in the employment process ONLY.

Applicant Responsibility: Upon applying, confirmation of receipt for a specific advert is given. If no confirmation is received, you must verify with Kontak Recruitment.