Union of International Mountain Leader Associations


The Union of International Mountain Leader Associations was founded in November 2004. It was decided at the meeting that all IMLs would be awarded the same carnet and badge giving an internationally recognised identity. It also paves the way for other countries from around the world to join UIMLA setting a world standard for mountain leaders.
The principal aims of UIMLA are:
The UIMLA International Mountain Leader and the IFMGA Mountain Guide are the only internationally recognised qualifications for those leading groups in the mountains. Holders of these awards can also work in the UK's mountains.
The International Mountain Leader Award is the professional qualification for individuals who wish to lead trekking parties to all mountain areas except on glaciers, and where the techniques or equipment of alpinism are required. The International Mountain Leader can also operate on easy snow-covered terrain, providing it is of a gentle, Nordic type in the “middle” mountains. On successful completion of the full training and assessment programme, and by belonging to their recognised National Body, the individual will gain the full IML Award, a professional Carnet and Internationally recognised badge, giving them comparability with other IMLs worldwide.
UIMLA's International Office is at:

UIMLA, Maison des Parcs et de la Montagne, 256, Rue de la République F-73000 CHAMBERY, France

Member associations