Becoming an IFG Associate
The letters IFGA after a name are the hallmark of a wilderness guide at the pinnacle of their profession.
In survey work carried out by the IFGA, 92% of premium camps, lodges and hotels in wilderness locations reported that they would choose an IFG Associate in preference to a candidate without IFG accreditation.
Find out about how to become an IFG Associate in your region
Our mission has 2 parts
01
To provide a hallmark for wildlife guides who have achieved the very highest level of professional excellence.
02
To assist guide training organisations in delivering guides who are ready to meet the exacting requirements of international wilderness tourism, while playing an active role in ecosystem conservation.
The IFGA method
01
Needs analysis
Through quantitative and qualitative research, the IFGA maps the specific requirements which camp, lodge and hotel operators have for wildlife guides in a region. We map those needs across 5 “domains”: knowledge, skills, behaviours, sensitivities and philosophies.
02
Standard creation
For each domain, a set of 10 detailed standards are developed which, taken together, reflects the industry's requirements within that domain.
03
Assessment and examination
The IFGA provides assessments which allows a training organisation to quantify student attainment throughout their IFGA training program, as well as a final examination for the prestigious award of International Field Guide Associate, IFG.
Two IFGA examination cycles are offered each year, in December and June.
There are no annual fees to maintain IFGA Associate status.
Your IFGA training provider will provide you with their training and examination costs.
Costs
Contact Us
To find out more about how to join the IFGA, whether as an Associate, training provider, or hospitality provider looking to hire an IFGA guide, please contact us through the form.