Mountain Leadership

What is a walking Group Leader & Mountain Leader?

A Walking Group Leader has the skills and knowledge to confidently lead others in a “middle mountain” or non-technical hill environment. A Mountain Leader is able to lead others on technical and challenging walking and trekking expeditions in mountain and steep-ground environments. Walking & Mountain Leadership is the key to the safe enjoyment of our hill and mountain areas. This course is aimed at developing the skills necessary and providing the internationally benchmarked South African Mountain Leadership qualifications.

What we will focus on:

·         The technical skills of walking & mountain leadership including: navigation & route finding (including limited visibility), risk management, identifying & dealing with mountain hazards, dealing with emergencies, expedition planning, equipment care and usage, (safety on steep ground, river crossings, and winter survival skills – ML only).

This course can be conducted partly online with a practical component in the Drakensberg or other mountain areas, and will lead to assessment as Walking Group Leader or Mountain Leader depending on the experience and competence of each participant. The course will consist of a combination of lectures, workshops and practical sessions & assessment is a combination of a written exam & practical assessment (including night- or limited visibility navigation).


Mountain Training Standards Trust (MST) Accredited.

Chrysalis Project is a registered MTS (previously MDT) provider. The MTS is responsible for the establishment and maintenance of standards and qualifications for all mountaineering related activities in South Africa. These were   developed to provide internationally recognized skills and training standards for the many clubs, organizations and individuals active in mountain related activities.

The system has various levels and associated courses. For more information on the MTS visit www.mountaintrainingstandards.co.za   


The MTS is linked to the Mountain Club of South Africa, which is a UIAA affiliate.

Course Instructor:      

Nic Shaw is Managing Director of Chrysalis Project and has a wide range of mountain experience in South Africa, Canada and the UK. Working with the Mountain Club of South Africa’s search & rescue team, Nic has taken part in many training and rescue sessions, expanding his knowledge of the field and the skills required to safely enjoy the adventure.