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Compass resting on a topographic map during a navigation exercise

Guided course

Mountain navigation course: learn to read the terrain

Learn to read a map, use a compass and make sound decisions when the terrain or the weather changes.

  • LevelBeginner
  • DurationHalf day or full day
  • GroupSmall group or private
5.0· 76 Google reviews
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Course summary

Mountain navigation course: learn to read the terrain

Learn to read a map, use a compass, plan a route and make simple decisions when the terrain or the weather changes. It is the foundation for everything else: without it, any other mountain technique stays shaky. The course combines a very short theory session with plenty of real practice on the ground, led by an AEGM / UIMLA-qualified mountain leader.

Compass resting on a topographic map during a navigation exercise
  • AreaVal d'Aran, Pyrenees
  • DurationHalf day or full day
  • GuideJavier Gil
  • GroupSmall group or private
  • LevelBeginner

Before you sign up

Is it for you?

You'll love it if…

  • You want to stop feeling uneasy about moving through the mountains without signal or GPS
  • You are going to hike in the mountains on your own and want to do it with better judgement
  • You already use a map and compass but have never really put them to the test

It may not be the course for you if…

  • You want a theory course in a classroom, with no time outdoors
  • You only want to learn how to use your phone's GPS
Javier Gil
AEGM / UIMLA-qualified mountain leader · Ecotour Experiences

Who will be with you on this course

Javier Gil

Before talking technique, Javier asks each person in the group what experience they have with a map and compass. That lets him set the pace of the course: starting from scratch is not the same as consolidating a skill you already have but that is only truly tested on the ground.

What he is after is not that you remember symbols, but that you leave able to make a real decision when the terrain or the weather changes. That is exactly what separates a well-handled outing from an avoidable problem.

Course highlights

Why take this course

Course content

What you'll learn

  • Reading a topographic map: contour lines, symbols and scales
  • Using the compass: taking a bearing, orienting the map and allowing for magnetic declination
  • Identifying real landmarks on the ground
  • Planning a route: working out timings, elevation gain and escape routes
  • Making simple decisions when the weather or the terrain changes
  • Knowing when to turn back, before the problem appears

Before you come

What to bring. Mountain boots, warm clothing in layers, water and food for the day, a rucksack. If you have your own compass, bring it; if not, we lend you one during the course.

Prerequisites. None. The course adapts from complete beginners to those who already use a map and compass but want to build real confidence on the ground.

Included

  • AEGM / UIMLA-qualified mountain leader throughout the day.

    Mountain leader
  • The outing is tailored to the group before you start.

    Planning
  • Maps and compasses lent and shared during the course.

    Navigation equipment

Not included

  • To the meeting point.

    Transport
  • Your own, for the day.

    Food and drink
  • Except what is lent during the course.

    Personal technical equipment

Frequently asked questions

What people ask us

01Do I need any previous experience?

No, the course adapts from complete beginners to those who already use a map and compass but want to build real confidence on the ground.

02Do we use GPS or only a map and compass?

The focus is on the map and compass, the tools that work without a battery and give you real judgement.

03Is it suitable for children?

It depends on their age. Tell us when you book so we can adapt the content and the terrain.

04How long does the course last?

It adapts to the group: it can be run as a half day or a full day, depending on what we agree.

05Who leads the course?

A qualified Ecotour mountain leader.

06How many people are in a group?

A small or private group. The number of participants is agreed when the date is confirmed.

Reviews

What our travellers say about us

Excellent5.0
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