UIAGM / IFMGA Guide Award

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.