WELCOME TO
Franschhoek Valley Adv and Outdoor Academy
Franschhoek Valley Adventure and Outdoor Academy offers professional training, exciting outdoor activities, and meaningful conservation programs—helping you build skills, explore nature, and make a lasting impact
"Where your journey begins"
- About Us
Where Training Meets Purpose and Adventure
Nestled in the heart of the beautiful Franschhoek Valley, our Academy offers a unique blend of training, adventure, and community development. We focus on creating opportunities that strengthen local tourism, promote environmental stewardship, and uplift communities through education and action.
- VISSION
Shaping Tomorrow’s Tourism Protectors
The Academy seeks to enhance adventure tourism within the Franschhoek Valley through a dynamic partnership with Heart Adventures and their Berg River Dam Adventure initiative. Learners will not only gain formal qualifications but will also apply their skills in real-world scenarios across a variety of adventure categories centered around the Berg River Dam area.
- CORE ADVENTURE DISCIPLINES
The proposed qualification will focus on a wide spectrum of adventure-based activities, including:
- Mountaineering
- Hiking and trekking
- Kayaking
- Abseiling
- Zip-lining
- Horse riding – wine tasting on horseback
- Overlanding and 4×4 adventures
These offerings will ensure that students are prepared for the broad demands of the adventure tourism industry both locally and internationally
- TRAINING APPROACH
The program will follow a hybrid/blended learning model.
Allowing students the flexibility to complete their theoretical training online from anywhere in the world. However, all practical components will be conducted on-site at the Franschhoek Valley Adventure and Outdoor Academy.
Participants may choose between:
Full-time on-site attendance
Online theory completion with practical training blocks in Franschhoek.
This model supports accessibility, inclusivity, and scalability of the program while ensuring high-quality, hands-on learning experiences.
- CURRICULUM AND QUALIFICATION
The curriculum has been carefully designed.
With input from seasoned professionals and aligned with the CATHSSETA (Culture, Art, Tourism, Hospitality and Sport Sector Education and Training Authority) requirements. The main focus is on Adventure Guiding, but the program also introduces students to:
•Cultural Guiding
•Nature Guiding
These optional modules will allow learners to broaden their skillsets and pursue additional qualifications.
Timeline and Implementation
A detailed curriculum and implementation schedule is provided in the attached document. The phased rollout allows for:
• Pilot training cycles
• Feedback and quality assurance
• Gradual intake scaling
• Ongoing course and material updates to reflect industry trends
- Why Choose Us
INDUSTRY EXPERIENCE AND LEGACY
01.
What makes our training different?
Will of Africa, established in 2011, has trained over 25,000 students in Defensive and 4×4 driver training and currently provides vehicle-specific training to Toyota South Africa. Our proven track record in specialised training makes us well-positioned to lead this project with the excellence it requires.
02.
How will this initiative benefit South African youth?
The program is designed to open doors to the adventure tourism industry by equipping young people with accredited skills, practical experience, and clear career pathways. Beyond training, it creates opportunities for employment and entrepreneurship, helping youth build sustainable futures.
- COMMUNITY INTEGRATION AND EMPLOYMENT
Empowering Graduates for Lasting Impact.
Graduates from the Academy will be equipped not only to guide and host adventure activities but also to contribute meaningfully to:
Local festivals and events
- Community-based tourism safety and support initiatives
- Adventure ambassadors in the town of Franschhoek for the Tourism Board.
- Franschhoek tourism street-level visibility and engagement
We envision a scenario where certified adventure guides are visible and active ambassadors for Franschhoek, contributing to both tourism safety and visitor experience.
- Conservation
Protecting the Valley We Call Home
Environmental Conservation
Protecting natural habitats, wildlife, and ecosystems through clean-up drives, habitat restoration, and invasive species control.
Cultural Conservation
Preserving local heritage, traditions, and historical sites that are integral to the Franschhoek Valley’s identity.
Community Conservation
Involving local residents in eco-friendly practices, education programs, and projects that support both people and the environment.