I applied to study a course in tourism at Starwan Technical institute. I had seen them in Facebook and after calling them I felt confident it would open up career opportunities for me and help me achieve my ambition to be part of a Tour guide. The qualified and experienced lecturer have taught me a lot and connected me with people in the tourism industry. They have many tourism courses from short courses to diploma in tours and travel and also tour guiding among others. Apply online today to start your journey in the tourism industry. Tourism Student.
Tour guiding courses are designed to prepare individuals for a career as a professional tour guide, equipping them with the knowledge and skills needed to lead and engage groups of tourists. Here’s a detailed overview of what you might expect from a tour guiding course, including typical requirements, course content, and potential career paths:
Requirements for Enrolling in a Tour Guiding Course
- Educational Background:
- High School KCSE or Equivalent: Most courses require at least a high school certificate or equivalent . Some programs might accept candidates with relevant work experience in place of formal education.
- Language Skills:
- Proficiency in English and foreign language: Strong communication skills in English are often required, as it is commonly used in the tourism industry. Additional languages like German,French,Spanish and Chinese can be beneficial, especially for guiding international tourists.
- Interest and Enthusiasm:
- Passion for Travel and History: A genuine interest in travel, history, culture, and storytelling can be advantageous.
- Customer Service Skills: Experience or a demonstrated aptitude for providing excellent customer service can be helpful.
- Health:
- Health Considerations: Being in good physical health is important, as the job can involve walking long distances, standing for extended periods, and handling various physical tasks.
Core Units in Tour Guiding Courses
- Introduction to Tour Guiding:
- Overview of the role and responsibilities of a tour guide
- Understanding the tourism industry and different types of tours (e.g., cultural, adventure, historical)
- Tour Planning and Organization:
- Creating and organizing tour itineraries
- Coordinating logistics, such as transportation, accommodations, and activities
- Communication and Public Speaking:
- Techniques for effective communication and public speaking
- Engaging and entertaining different types of audiences
- Cultural and Historical Knowledge:
- In-depth knowledge of local history, culture, and landmarks
- Understanding the significance of various sites and their relevance to tourists
- Customer Service and Interaction:
- Providing excellent customer service and managing group dynamics
- Handling diverse groups, addressing complaints, and ensuring a positive experience
- Safety and Emergency Procedures:
- Ensuring the safety and well-being of tour participants
- Responding to emergencies and managing risk
- Guiding Techniques:
- Practical techniques for guiding and leading tours effectively
- Using storytelling, visual aids, and interactive methods to enhance the tour experience
- Marketing and Promotion:
- Strategies for promoting and selling tours
- Understanding target audiences and effective marketing methods
- Local Legislation and Regulations:
- Knowledge of relevant local laws, regulations, and industry standards
- Compliance with tourism regulations and ethical considerations
Practical Experience
- Field Trips and Practicals:
- Hands-on practice leading tours and interacting with real or simulated groups
- Field trips to relevant sites and landmarks
- Internships or Work Experience:
- Opportunities to work with established tour guides or tourism companies to gain real-world experience
- Assessment and Feedback:
- Evaluations based on practical guiding exercises and assignments
- Constructive feedback from instructors and peers
Career Opportunities
- Tour Guide:
- Leading groups on various types of tours, such as city tours, historical tours, or nature tours.
- Tour Coordinator:
- Organizing and managing tours and travel arrangements for clients or organizations.
- Travel Consultant:
- Providing advice and planning services for travelers and tourists.
- Cultural or Heritage Specialist:
- Focusing on specific cultural or historical aspects as part of guided experiences or educational programs.
- Tourism Manager:
- Overseeing tourism operations, including managing tour guides and developing tour programs.