The Carnet of the International Federation of Mountain Guides
Associations (IFMGA or UIAGM, no difference) is the highest
professional award attainable in mountaineering. It is recognised
throughout the world, and in alpine countries such as France
and Switzerland it is a legal requirement for anyone taking
clients into the mountains on or above glacier level, whether
climbing or skiing.
To achieve the IFMGA carnet takes tremendous dedication to
mountaineering and a high level of skill in all aspects of
the sport – rock climbing, ice climbing, alpine climbing
and Ski Touring. It also requires a portfolio of climbing experience
which takes years to acquire.
All of the ISM guiding team, and any Visiting Guides working
alongside us, are either Full Guides holding the International
Carnet or Aspirant Guides working through the scheme that have
passed all the requisite exams to allow them to work legally
in the Alps. Their competence has been rigorously tested and
it is your assurance of safety – something we would never
compromise.