Meeting point
OUTDOOR - Interlaken Base
Industriestrasse 17, 3812 Wilderswil
Outdoor Guide Training
SOA Basic Certificates
Rescue3 Training
Clear Structure
Season:
May August
Key info
Our guides speak German & English
Canyoning Basics and Advanced Course in two modules
River Rafting Basic Course with training days and exam
Rescue3 Whitewater Rescue with three days of intensive training
Rope Park Operator with hands-on rope activities
Overview
Recommended for:
Anyone ready to level up with the skills that actually matter.
You'll learn step-by-step how to safely lead people through nature experiences.
The Outdoor Academy guides you through a structured training program with clear modules in rafting, canyoning, and rope activities. You'll learn techniques, practice them in water and on rocks, and later apply them in real situations. The training combines theory, practice, and guided experience into a comprehensive learning path.
Course details
AcademyLearning objectives
- SOA River Rafting Guide 1
- SOA Canyoning Guide 1
- SOA Rope Park Operator
- Rescue 3 WRT PRO
Course curriculum
Assessment methods
SOA River Rafting Guide 1
After passing the practical and theoretical exams, you qualify as a River Rafting Guide 1. This allows you to work as a guide or assistant on suitable rivers and later advance to SOA River Rafting Guide 2. Issued by Outdoor Switzerland AG.
SOA Canyoning Guide 1
This certification shows you can safely co-lead canyoning tours under the responsibility of a more qualified guide. It forms the basis for advanced courses like SOA Canyoning Guide 2, SOA Rope Specialist, and SOA Trip Leader. Issued by Outdoor Switzerland AG.
SOA Rope Park Operator
This certificate confirms you can professionally supervise rope activities, instruct guests, and perform simple rescues in rope parks. It opens up opportunities in rope parks and similar facilities and serves as a foundation for further rope and rescue training. Issued by Outdoor Switzerland AG.
Rescue 3 Whitewater Rescue Technician WRT PRO
This internationally recognized certificate confirms your competencies in water rescue, emergency management, and tactical operations in whitewater. It is a standard requirement in many areas of whitewater sports. Issued by Outdoor Switzerland AG in collaboration with Rescue 3.
Certification
The Swiss Outdoor Association SOA is the national authority for certifications in various outdoor activities and represents the industry in Switzerland. In many areas, an SOA qualification is a prerequisite to work as a guide. The standards are internationally recognized. Rescue 3 is an international organization and its certificates are accepted worldwide.
Issued by:
Outdoor Switzerland AG
Itinerary
Meeting points Introduction and Basics
At the beginning, you'll clarify organization, safety, and your role in the guide team. You'll get to know the equipment, workflows, and standards. This foundation ensures you are prepared to start the practical modules.
Modular Structure with Final Exams
The course is divided into clearly separated modules. Each module is completed and ends with an exam before you move on to the next. You first work on the technical basics, take the corresponding SOA or Rescue 3 exam, and build on that. This process ensures you are properly qualified step-by-step before taking on new areas of responsibility.
Targeted Practical Application
Between the modules, you gain practical experience on tours. You support active guides, take on your own sections, and apply standards in real environments. This deepens your technique, communication, and decision-making skills.
Completion and Future Prospects
Upon successfully passing all exams, you receive qualifications as an SOA River Rafting Guide 1, SOA Canyoning Guide 1, SOA Rope Park Operator, and Rescue 3 WRT PRO. After the training, you can work in outdoor and other companies as an assistant or guide, accumulate practice days, and advance to higher levels such as Guide 2, Rope Specialist, or Trip Leader.
Whats included
10 week training program
Course documents
Accommodation in fully equipped apartment
Transport during the courses
Required equipment
Certified canyoning rafting and rope park instructors
Coordination and support
Licensing fees and certificates upon completion
Not included
Insurance
Participants are not insured by the organizer and need valid accident and travel insurance.
What to bring
Swimwear and towel
Travel documents
Toiletries and medication
Solid waterproof shoes
Personal clothing for all conditions including robust outdoor wear
Weather info
General weather info
Weather can influence any tour, and a clear decision is often only possible on the day itself. We review conditions carefully and remain within our safety limits, and bad weather alone does not mean we have to stop.
Make sure we can reach you with current contact information in case your booking changes. Silence from us means your tour is still planned or the final call is not yet made. If we need to cancel, you can rebook, choose another activity, or get a full refund.
For detailed advice on how to prepare for (and enjoy!) bad weather days in Interlaken, check out our weather blog
Meeting points
Meeting points
Activity location