The job of a mountain guide

Background information
Our mountain guides are state-certified professionals, with a diploma from the French ‘Ministère de la jeunesse et des Sports’ (Ministry of Youth and Sports). Their job is to help others, whether it be beginners or experienced hikers, to discover the mountains with guaranteed safety. Established in 1976, the mountain guide certificate is the only qualification allowing an individual to be paid for leading group hikes in the mountains.

Sound training and extensive skills
After 3 years of thorough training, the guide’s knowledge of the mountains (including fauna, flora, geology and heritage) and physical and technical abilities are second to none! A large part of the training deals with safety aspects and leading a group on difficult, rough or snowy terrain, as well as perfecting map reading and compass skills, forecasting the weather, nivology, instructional strategies and first aid. They also have the opportunity to obtain additional qualifications in mountain biking or canyoning for example.

Safety first
With training in first aid, the guides are able to provide such assistance when out in the mountains. They carry a first aid kit at all times as well as rope to assist group members at difficult stages of the hike.

Why go with a mountain guide
Hiking has become an extremely popular leisure activity that many people do on their own on, generally speaking, easy, way-marked trails. But with the difficult terrain and changing weather conditions typical of mountain areas, making use of a guide allows you to safely venture to places where walkers would not go alone and to discover a region, its culture, history and traditions in a truly exclusive way.