Guide Spotlight: Jennifer Eisele

Culture & Adventure Guide | Western Cape

Nestled between coastlines, fynbos, and the majestic Cape mountains, Jennifer Eisele has carved out a unique niche for herself as a Culture and Adventure Tourist Guide in the Western Cape. With a guiding registration that spans iconic regions—Cape Metropole, Winelands, Overberg, West Coast, and Breede—and specialisations in hiking and sea kayaking, Jennifer is a powerhouse of passion, professionalism, and people skills.

Her story begins on the edge of the Richtersveld, where her father ran a campsite frequented by 4x4 overlanders and river guides. “As a kid, I would jump onto the river trips,” she recalls, “four to six days in the wilderness, camping and taking care of guests—it was freedom and adventure all at once.” Her early exposure to the river guiding world lit a spark that never went out.

Jennifer Eisele - Sea Kayaking

Jennifer’s journey hasn’t followed a straight line—like any good trail, it’s been full of twists. For a time, she worked as a kindergarten teacher and later trained as a cultural guide, navigating the open road and tightly packed itineraries. “Cultural guiding gave me insight into the tourism industry,” she says, “and helped me understand how to communicate with everyone—from guests to operators.”

Her return to outdoor guiding came through Gravity Adventures, where she rediscovered her love for raw, immersive experiences. When sea kayaking courses reopened during the pandemic, she was ready. “It felt natural. Paddling turned into work, and work turned into passion again.”

So what makes her dual focus so special?

“Every hiking or kayaking trip is unique,” Jennifer explains. “Watching guests push past their comfort zones and embrace nature—whether it's spotting whales or paddling alongside penguins—is such a cool moment. Cultural guiding lets me share local history, even while out on a trail. It all connects.”

Jennifer brings more than knowledge—she brings heart. She’s the kind of guide who checks weather patterns days in advance, who navigates city traffic with ease, and who carries a quiet respect for both people and place. “I’m a bit of a mother hen,” she admits, laughing, “but being prepared means you can create something truly magical and safe.”

When asked about her favourite place to guide, she lights up: “A whole day at Cape of Good Hope Reserve—there’s nothing better.”

As a member of SA AIA, Jennifer is excited about the future. “The fact that SA AIA helps us navigate marketing, develop skills, and raise industry standards is a game-changer. It makes me feel like we’re part of something real.”

And her hopes for the sector? “I want to see companies investing in guides, making training more accessible, and building a strong, respectful community. Gravity Adventures does this, and it makes all the difference.”

Her advice to new guides is simple: “Be a team player. Be prepared. Be open-minded and warm. That’s what makes the difference—every time.”

Jennifer Eisele embodies the spirit of South African adventure tourism: grounded, generous, and always ready to guide the next great journey.