JUNGLE SKILLS COURSE
Become a Certified Jungle Guide
Ready to lead in one of the most extreme environments on Earth?
Join us deep in the rainforest for an unforgettable field experience that will challenge your limits, sharpen your instincts, and connect you with Indigenous knowledge keepers, world-class instructors, and the raw power of the jungle.
This course is for aspiring and active expedition leaders, eco-tourism professionals, Indigenous guides, field researchers, and anyone ready to take their jungle skills, expeditionary knowledge and leadership to the next level.
Course dates: April 7 - 21 2026
Cost: USD $2999 /person
Location: Darien National Park, Darien Province, Panama
Group Size: A minimum of 4 participants is required for this course. Maximum group size is 14 participants
Limited spaces. Global applicants welcome
Course Location: Darien Gap, Panama
Languages: English, Spanish
Train in real jungle conditions
-Learn advanced survival & navigation
-Master expedition planning & emergency protocols
-Work with Indigenous experts
-Build expedition leadership skills
-Earn internationally recognized accredited certification
-
This course is designed to be partially student-led, giving participants the opportunity to take ownership of the expedition planning process. Working in teams, you’ll be responsible for developing large portions of the route plan — including identifying navigation points, assessing terrain risks, organizing group logistics, and proposing contingency options. While experienced instructors provide mentorship and oversight, much of the decision-making and route execution will come from you and your peers. This hands-on leadership approach ensures that what you learn isn’t just theoretical — it’s applied, tested, and refined in real time as you help shape the course of the journey through one of the most challenging and remote environments on Earth.
As part of the course, you and your team will take the lead in planning and navigating an expedition along a rarely travelled route from the mid-section of the Tuira River to the historic Cana Field Station, deep in the heart of Darién National Park. This route may include a summit of Mt. Setetule (1,180m), a partial traverse of the Purriche Swamp — or both. The path will be chosen based on your team’s decisions, weather conditions, and real-time assessments of readiness and terrain. Should conditions shift, you'll adapt the plan and opt for a direct incursion via the traditional trail, making the most of your time at Cana. Once there, you’ll lead further exploration — whether it’s climbing Mt. Pirre across the valley or scouting the remote Seteganti River — putting your newly acquired jungle guiding skills to the test in one of the most biodiverse and revered jungle regions on the planet.
IAJG Certified Instructor: Rick Morales, IAJG Certified Instructor, Association Director.
IAJG Certified Assistant Instructor: Cesar Gonzalez. Certified Jungle Guide, Instructor in Training.
Certification Gained: Upon successful completion of this course, candidates are issued Certified Jungle Guide (CJG) Certification, endorsed by the International Association of Jungle Guides (IAJG), accredited by Geoversity.
An IAJG Certified Jungle Guide is a trusted professional expertly trained to safely navigate tropical rainforest environments worldwide. Equipped with advanced risk management skills, wilderness medical knowledge, and deep cultural and environmental understanding, our certified guides set the standard for excellence in adventure, research, film expeditions, and beyond. Choosing an IAJG guide means choosing proven expertise, commitment to safety, and responsible exploration.
-
Description
Certified Jungle Guides may lead training and expeditions in Jungle, Tropical and Rainforest Regions not exceeding their certification and competency level. They may mentor non-certified guides in knowledge and skills-testing preparation for certification.
They may wear or otherwise display International Jungle Guides Association logos and media in a professional manner and context on clothing, marketing material and digital marketing platforms, as approved by the association.
They may participate in International Jungle Guides Association curriculum development in discussion with Certified Jungle Guide Instructors. They may lead training and expeditions on behalf of the association, as employed by the association to do so. Certified Jungle Guides must adhere to the International Jungle Guides Association currency requirements.
Certification Currency
Curriculum minimum components (jungle specific):
Planning and Preparation
Risk and Emergency Management
Indigenous Communities and Cultural Awareness
Movement and Navigation
Equipment and Camp Craft
Medical Preparedness
Communication and Coordination
Knowledge testing:
Candidates must first successfully complete an approved knowledge curriculum course through either the International Jungle Guides Association, an International Jungle Guides Association Certified Jungle Guide Instructor or through an approved Training Partner to include the following jungle region specific subject matter. This knowledge may be delivered through an online or digital course platform or in-class / in-person.
Skills testing:
Candidates must then successfully apply tested knowledge and jungle specific practical leadership skills through either the International Jungle Guides Association, an International Jungle Guides Association Certified Jungle Guide Instructor or through an approved Training Partner, in an approved field setting over a multi-day expedition scenario. Field testing may be delivered in-person only. Course schedule and curriculum and testing must be association approved.
Candidates that have successfully completed both knowledge and skills testing will be granted Certified Jungle Guide status.
Hybrid testing:
Combined Knowledge and field testing may be conducted as approved by the International Jungle Guides Association.
Challenging Certification Requirements:
Candidates may challenge knowledge testing by contacting the International Jungle Guides Association for more information on requirements for proof of competency. Skills testing can only be done in person as approved by the International Jungle Guides Association, by an International Jungle Guides Association Certified Jungle Guide Instructor or through an approved Training Partner.
Certification fee: USD$150. Valid for three (3) years.
Recertification and Currency Requirements:
Certified Jungle Guides must maintain a high degree of professionalism, respect for nature, peoples, cultures and clients. They will adhere to International Jungle Guides Association Rules, Regulations, Policies and Ethos. They will operate solely within their experience, physical capability, competency and certification level.
Recertification
Certified Jungle Guides must recertify every three (3) years from the date of certification issuance, only through the International Jungle Guides Association. To be eligible, two expeditions must have been lead over the past 3 years of certification. Recertification fee: CAD$150. Recertification fee includes annual membership dues, recertification administration, and three (3) years of certification.
First Aid Currency
Certified Jungle Guides must maintain valid and applicable first aid training certification relative to their operation, as offered and available in their respective region(s) of operation. Proof of first aid certification must be available upon request by the association, and included in any certification application, or recertification application.
Regular spot checks or audits
In order for the International Jungle Guides Association to maintain international credibility among its certified guides, instructors, staff and training partners, all persons holding certification, approvals or training partner status must be available and willing to undergo regular random spot checks whether in person or otherwise, by the International Jungle Guides Association, or designated person(s) thereof.
Failure to comply with Association Currency Requirements may result in the member(s) being stripped of certification.
Clear process to address non-compliance:
Written warning → Probation → Certification suspension or expulsion.
-
Difficulty Level: Advanced
Description: This is a physically and mentally demanding field course designed for those with prior outdoor experience. Participants should be prepared for long days on foot in challenging terrain, high heat and humidity, minimal comfort, and unpredictable conditions. The training takes place in real jungle environments with limited access to outside support, requiring a high degree of personal responsibility, adaptability, and teamwork. This course is not suitable for beginners.
-
The main items required for training in this unique environment are:
-70-90Lt. trekking pack
-Trekking poles (collapsable)
-Jungle Boots
-Sandals
-Lightweight snake gaitors
-Head torch
-Spoon / spork + Bowl
-Water containers suitable for 4Lt. (water bladder / bottles)
-Compass
-Electrolytes
-Snacks, Lunch Snacks
-Trekking clothing x1 pair
-Evening attire x1 pair
-Personal med kit / toiletries
Your course instructor will issue a more detailed kit list.
Your Instructor: Rick is a veteran explorer and expedition leader, with over two decades guiding various projects through Central America’s most challenging terrain. Respected across the region, he’s played a key role in developing sustainable eco-tourism practices that protect fragile ecosystems while delivering authentic cultural experiences. His leadership has influenced both public policy and private sector initiatives, making him a driving force in Central America’s environmental and tourism landscape.
A native of Boquete, Panama, Rick Morales is a pioneer of Panamanian adventure—he is one of the very few to have thru-hiked the length of Panama non-stop.
-
IAJG Certification fee
IAJG Certified Instructor for prior planning, course duration, and post course administration.
IAJG Certified Assistant Instructor for course duration.
Internal transport from Panama City (public bus), to your course location, and back to Panama City upon course completion.
Transportation required while on course: Boats, canoes etc.
Lodging while on course, campsites, park fees, indigenous territory permits, fees and permissions.
The service of local staff and/or a pack horse.
All meals at villages, and freeze-dried breakfast and dinner during the jungle stage - Mixture of Panamanian camp-style meals, freeze-dried trekking meals, locally catered meals when lodging in villages.
-
International air transportation to and from Panama City.
Insurance of any kind (Medical, Evacuation, Repatriation) Note: This is mandatory for global participants.
Prophylaxis, as discussed with your travel doctor. Note: Yellow Fever vaccination is mandatory for entry into Panama.
Alcoholic beverages not provided by hosts with meals.
Additional hotel days/nights in Panama, or in the jungle.
Personal equipment according to personal needs and preferences (list of mandatory items and recommendations will be provided upon registration).
Tips to Local Darien’ support Guides and Porters; discretionary but anticipated by the local guides. Your trip leader can help advise on how much.
Early departure or evacuation costs from course location. We recommend each participant carries USD$500 cash on their person while on course for evacuation to Panama City.
Expedition snacks (Can be purchased in Panama City).
Lunch snacks or snacks, drinks not included in course, frequently available when lodging in villages.
-
Jungle Guides International – Terms and Conditions
(Effective June 2025)These Terms and Conditions govern participation in any course or expedition offered by Jungle Guides International (JGI). By registering for a JGI program, you acknowledge and agree to the terms outlined below.
1. Jurisdiction and Legal Framework
Jungle Guides International is a Canadian organization, and all agreements, disputes, or claims related to our services shall be governed by and interpreted in accordance with the laws of the Province of Nova Scotia, Canada, and applicable Canadian federal law.
Participants and guides agree to abide by these Terms regardless of their country of origin or location of the expedition.
2. International Association of Jungle Guides (IAJG) – Global Protection
Guides certified through the International Association of Jungle Guides (IAJG) operate as independent professionals within the JGI network. These Terms provide a framework for mutual respect, risk awareness, and fair conduct, ensuring appropriate protection for all guides operating under the IAJG framework worldwide.
3. Participant Responsibility
Participants agree to the following conditions before joining any JGI course or expedition:
Travel Insurance: Participants are required to purchase and maintain valid travel and medical insurance that includes emergency evacuation, accident, and repatriation coverage. Proof of coverage may be requested.
Travel Documentation: Participants are solely responsible for obtaining all necessary travel documents, including passports, visas, vaccination records, and permissions to enter Panama or any other destination.
Emergency Contact Information: Participants must provide emergency contact details prior to departure.
Liability Waiver: All participants must sign a Release of Liability, Waiver of Claims, Assumption of Risk, and Indemnity Agreement prior to travel. Failure to do so may result in removal from the program without refund.
4. Health and Physical Fitness
Participants must disclose any medical conditions or limitations that may impact their ability to safely participate. JGI reserves the right to decline participation if there is reasonable concern regarding safety, health, or group risk.
5. Cancellations and Refunds
Our cancellation and refund policy is designed to protect both participants and the local guides who invest significant time and resources preparing for each program.
Cancellation Policy:
More than 30 Days Before Expedition Start:
Full refund provided.15–30 Days Before Expedition Start:
25% of the total cost will be retained by JGI to cover preparation costs your guide may have ensued in preparation for your expedition. The remaining 75% will be refunded to you, along with any of the 25% retained, not otherwise used for any incurred costs.Less than 15 Days Before Expedition Start:
50% of the total cost will be retained by JGI. Of this, 25% will be paid directly to the guide, along with any costs ensued in preparation for your expedition. The remaining 50% will be refunded.Last-Minute Cancellations:
Managed on a case-by-case basis, in conversation with the lead guide. A minimum of 50% of the total cost can be retained.No-Shows:
Participants who fail to arrive on the agreed start date without notifying JGI in advance will forfeit 100% of their payment. No refunds will be issued.
6. Program Modifications or Cancellations by JGI
JGI reserves the right to cancel or modify any program due to unforeseen circumstances, including but not limited to safety concerns, natural disasters, political instability, or insufficient participant numbers. In such cases:
A full or partial refund may be issued, or
An alternative program or date may be offered.
JGI is not responsible for non-refundable travel expenses incurred by the participant.
7. Assumption of Risk
Participants understand that jungle expeditions and wilderness travel carry inherent risks, including but not limited to injury, illness, delays, environmental hazards, wildlife encounters, and limited access to medical care. Participation is voluntary, and participants assume full responsibility for all associated risks.
8. Respectful Conduct
JGI promotes a respectful, inclusive, and culturally sensitive environment. Participants are expected to act respectfully toward guides, local communities, and fellow group members at all times. Failure to adhere to behavioral standards may result in removal from the program without refund.
-
Jungle Guides International
Release of Liability, Waiver of Claims, Assumption of Risk and Indemnity Agreement
IMPORTANT NOTICE: By submitting payment for participation in any Jungle Guides International course, expedition, or training, you confirm that you have read, understood, and agreed to the terms and conditions outlined below. This agreement affects your legal rights. Please read carefully.
1. Assumption of Risk
I understand that participating in wilderness-based training, expeditions, or travel programs with Jungle Guides International (JGI) involves inherent risks and hazards. These include, but are not limited to:
Illness or injury in remote locations with limited access to medical care
Interaction with wildlife, insects, or plants
Slips, falls, or injuries from rugged terrain, rivers, cliffs, or natural disasters
Exposure to extreme weather, physical exertion, dehydration, or environmental challenges
Delays, cancellations, or disruptions due to weather, political, or logistical factors
Risks during travel by foot, boat, vehicle, or air
Cultural misunderstandings or variable health and safety standards
I freely accept and fully assume all such risks, including the possibility of personal injury, illness, death, or loss of property.
2. Waiver of Claims and Release of Liability
By participating, I waive any and all claims I may now or in the future have against Jungle Guides International and all affiliated parties, including but not limited to:
Directors, employees, contractors, volunteers, agents, and training partners
IAJG-certified guides operating globally
Heirs, successors, and assigns
This includes claims for negligence, breach of contract, or breach of any legal duty of care, and applies to any loss, injury, or damage sustained in connection with my participation.
3. Indemnity
I agree to indemnify and hold harmless JGI and its affiliates from any and all third-party claims, liabilities, or expenses resulting from:
My participation in any JGI program
My conduct during the course or expedition
Any inaccurate medical or travel documentation provided by me
4. Medical Fitness and Insurance
I confirm that I am medically and physically fit to participate. I understand that:
I am solely responsible for ensuring I am healthy and adequately prepared
I must secure personal travel insurance, including coverage for injury, illness, emergency evacuation, and trip cancellation
I am responsible for all costs related to medical care, evacuation, or repatriation
5. Legal Compliance and Cultural Respect
I agree to abide by all local laws and respect Indigenous communities, wildlife, and the guidance of certified expedition leaders. I understand that disrespectful or unsafe behavior may result in removal from the program without refund.
6. Photography and Media (Optional)
Unless I notify JGI in writing, I grant permission for any photographs, videos, or written feedback collected during my participation to be used by Jungle Guides International for educational or promotional purposes without compensation.
7. Governing Law
This agreement is governed by the laws of the Province of Nova Scotia, Canada, and the applicable laws of Canada. Any disputes will fall under the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of Nova Scotia. This waiver applies internationally to all participants and is intended to protect JGI and IAJG-certified guides wherever they operate.
8. Agreement by Payment
By making payment to Jungle Guides International for any course, expedition, or training, I confirm that I have read, understood, and voluntarily agreed to the above terms.
This agreement is binding and enforceable without signature, and is deemed accepted upon payment.
INFO
Prepare for your course - Learn from home!
Be ready when the Jungle bites back. Our Launch offer - Free for 2025
Interested in jungle guiding, but can't make it into the field just yet? This comprehensive course is for you! Learn the foundational knowledge of expedition leadership in Jungle regions around the world.