WGA Code of Ethics
This Code of Ethics defines the ethical principles and professional conduct expected from all members of the Wilderness Guides Association (WGA) who operate as wilderness guides, instructors or organisations.
It applies specifically to professionally organised and often commercial guiding activities, where guides carry responsibility for the safety, wellbeing and experience of clients and participants.
Context and scope
The WGA Code of Ethics must be read in conjunction with the definition of the WGA Wilderness Guide and the WGA Mission Statement.
Together, these documents define the professional, ethical and operational framework within which WGA members operate.
Read about the WGA Wilderness Guide
Read the WGA Mission Statement
Professional responsibility
WGA members accept professional responsibility for the people they guide and instruct.
- Placing safety and wellbeing above commercial, personal or reputational interests
- Operating only within approved certification levels, scope and ecoregions
- Making decisions based on professional judgment, not client pressure or objectives
- Accepting accountability for decisions made in the field
Honesty and representation
WGA members represent their qualifications, experience and limitations honestly and transparently.
- No exaggeration of skills, experience or certification level
- Clear communication of risks, limitations and expectations to clients
- Accurate representation of environmental conditions and operational scope
Competence and continuous development
WGA members commit to maintaining and developing professional competence.
- Operating only within areas of proven competence
- Maintaining relevant skills, training and experience
- Engaging in ongoing professional development and reflection
- Seeking supervision or support when operating at the edge of experience
Respect for environment and context
WGA members act as stewards of the environments in which they operate.
- Minimising environmental impact
- Respecting local regulations, land use rules and access rights
- Respecting cultural and social contexts of the areas they operate in
Respect for clients and participants
WGA members treat clients and participants with respect, care and professionalism.
- Creating a safe and inclusive guiding environment
- Respecting physical, emotional and psychological boundaries
- Communicating clearly and appropriately at all times
Professional conduct
WGA members act in a manner that reflects positively on the profession of wilderness guiding.
- Professional behaviour toward clients, colleagues and partner organisations
- Respectful cooperation with co-guides, instructors and organisations
- Avoiding behaviour that may undermine trust in the profession
Commercial integrity
In commercial and professionally organised guiding contexts, WGA members maintain ethical integrity.
- Transparent communication about services and responsibilities
- Responsible management of commercial pressure and expectations
- Refusal to compromise safety or ethics for financial gain
Commitment to the WGA framework
By becoming a member of the WGA, guides, instructors and organisations commit to operating within the WGA standards, ethics and professional framework.
Failure to adhere to this Code of Ethics may result in review or action in accordance with WGA governance procedures.