Expedition Leaders are people who love the outdoors so much they’ve decided to turn it into their career. Working in the outdoors offers challenges and rewards, making it a perfect fit for those passionate about nature and adventure. Do you love the outdoors? Do you want to make a career out of the outdoors? Then read on!
What is an Expedition Leader?
Expedition Leaders are people who have chosen to dedicate their lives to outdoor adventures. Not only are they outdoor enthusiasts, they are often professionals with a range of qualifications that allow them to teach others how to hike, climb and explore nature safely and effectively. Normally, they have a main passion (like rock climbing, hiking or mountaineering) but are able to use their skills across a range of activities.
Not everyone can be, or wants to be, an Expedition Leader. The role usually attracts people who get joy from helping others reach new heights and experience new things.
Connection with Nature and Adventure:
Expedition Leaders have a deep connection with nature through adventure in everything they do. Whether it’s reading the weather, navigating routes, watching the seasons, or assessing safety, being amongst nature is usually their happy place. Being in charge of a group means an Expedition Leader needs to be highly self-aware and possess a finely tuned connection with themselves through high-performance.
Day in The Life of an Expedition Leader:
The work undertaken by Expedition Leaders is typically seasonal and contract style, and sometimes you'll join a trip for 12 weeks at a time. Typically, Expedition Leaders will work with a range of companies depending on the demand. The work is often associated with travel:
- Rafting Guides chase the seasons, from Nepal to Japan and New Zealand.
- Hiking Guides follow the summer seasons across countries or even continents.
- Climbing Guides head to the climbing meccas of the world.
- Kayaking Guides might do a stint in the South Pole and spend the rest of the year in the Pacific Islands.
- Tour & Expedition Leaders join a company that offers expeditions across the globe and join one of their various tour groups as the expedition leader. Check out Gray's story about working as an expedition leader in Alaska.
Expedition Leaders usually stay fit, healthy and connected with the outdoors. The role is satisfying, allowing you to spend time with groups while they are on adventures. The pay varies according to location, roles, and responsibilities.
Qualifications and Skills Needed:
To keep current as an Expedition Leader, there are essential qualifications you need to maintain. Consistency in the field is key to success. Always being out there in contact with guests, working with gear, and practicing safety techniques is crucial for staying up to date.
Expedition Leaders come in all ages, sizes, nationalities, abilities and personality types. They wear many hats, encompassing roles such as managers, medics, morale-boosters, safety auditors, psychologists, and multi-sport athletes.
Through our Adventure Guide Programs you will gain the necessary qualifications in bush, rock, first aid and swift water to kickstart your Expedition Leader career.
How to Get a Job in the Outdoors as an Expedition Leader:
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Gain Relevant Experience: Start by gaining experience in outdoor activities you’re passionate about, such as hiking, climbing, or kayaking. Volunteer or work with outdoor adventure companies to build your resume. This hands-on experience is invaluable and provides a solid foundation for your career. Our programs are 90% field based meaning you will gain adequate hands on experience.
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Obtain Necessary Qualifications: Pursue certifications relevant to the activities you want to lead. For example, an Advanced Outdoor First Aid Certification is highly valued. Additionally, certifications from organisations like the New Zealand Outdoor Instructor Association (NZOIA) or the American Mountain Guides Association (AMGA).
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Join Training Programs: Enrol in experiential education courses that prepare you for the lifestyle and responsibilities of an Expedition Leader. Pure Exploration offers comprehensive programs that hone your skills and provide networking opportunities. These programs cover everything from leadership training to advanced outdoor skills, ensuring you are well-prepared for the demands of the job.
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Develop Soft Skills: Leadership, communication and problem-solving skills are essential. Being able to manage a group and ensure everyone's safety and enjoyment is crucial. These skills can be developed through experience and training, and they are just as important as technical outdoor skills.
- Network: Connect with other professionals in the field through courses, workshops and outdoor communities. Networking can open doors to job opportunities and collaborations. Attend industry conferences, join professional organisations, and engage with online communities related to outdoor leadership.
Benefits of Being an Expedition Leader
Being an Expedition Leader comes with numerous benefits that make it a highly rewarding career:
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Connecting with Nature: Expedition Leaders spend most of their time outdoors, allowing them to develop a deep connection with nature. This connection is not just beneficial for physical health but also for mental well-being.
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Staying Physically Fit: The physical demands of the job keep Expedition Leaders in tip top shape. From hiking and climbing to setting up campsites, every task contributes to maintaining a high level of fitness.
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Inspiring, Educating & Mentoring Others: One of the most fulfilling aspects of being an Expedition Leader is the opportunity to inspire and educate others about the outdoors. Whether it's teaching someone how to read a map or guiding them through their first mountain climb, the impact you can have on guests is immense.
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Continuous Learning: The outdoor environment is always changing and there is always something new to learn. Expedition Leaders continuously expand their knowledge about weather patterns, flora and fauna and survival techniques. This also changes when you change destinations, activity or guest demographic.
- Travelling to Exciting Destinations: Expedition Leaders often travel to some of the most beautiful and remote locations in the world. This travel aspect adds an element of adventure and exploration to the job. Working for Pure Exploration could see you end up in New Zealand, Patagonia, Nepal, Costa Rica or Thailand!
Challenges of Being an Expedition Leader
While being an Expedition Leader is rewarding, it can come with its challenges:
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Seasonal and Contract-Based Work: The nature of the job is often seasonal and contract-based, which can mean periods of downtime between work.
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Physical Demands: The physical demands of the job can be intense, requiring a high level of fitness and stamina. Expedition Leaders must be prepared for long days of physical activity in various weather conditions.
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Responsibility for Group Safety: Ensuring the safety of a group in potentially hazardous outdoor environments is a significant responsibility. This requires vigilance, preparedness, and quick decision-making.
- Work-Life Balance: The job often involves extended periods away from home, which can impact personal relationships and work-life balance.
Should You Become An Expedition Leader?
Becoming an Expedition Leader is a rewarding career for those who love working in the outdoors. It requires dedication, flexibility and a passion for adventure. By gaining relevant experience, necessary qualifications and joining comprehensive training programs like ours, you can turn your love for the outdoors into a fulfilling career. Embrace the adventure and take the first step towards becoming an Expedition Leader today!
Check out our Adventure Guide Program in New Zealand, Nepal and Patagonia.