tour director certification

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6 Best Training Programs And Courses For Tour Guides

Your tour guides are the face of your company. They’re the ones interacting with your guests on a day-to-day basis and making sure they’re having the best experience possible.

If you want to provide your guests with excellent service, you might want to consider investing in specialized tour guide training. There are a number of programs to choose from, from beginner courses that teach the basics of guiding to more advanced certifications that fully prepare a guide for every kind of tour.

The travel landscape is constantly changing, and keeping your guides up-to-date on the latest trends will help you better meet your guest’s expectations.

In this post, you’ll learn why investing in additional training for your tour guides is a good idea — plus six unique programs to consider.

Why should you invest in training for your tour guides?

What qualities should a tour guide have.

• 6 best training programs and courses for tour guides.

1.  TripSchool

• 2.  International Tour Management Institute

3.  Be a Better Guide

4.  international guide academy.

• 5.  EastguidesWest

6.  Good Tourism Institute

Tour guide training programs help guides hone in on a number of important skills, including their storytelling capabilities and how to solve problems on a tour. Courses on public speaking and group psychology can feel more confident during their tours. In turn, they’ll provide a better experience.

Courses that introduce guides to real-life scenarios and have them work their way through them can be especially useful for those who have never worked as a guide before.

In other words, these training programs specifically focus on developing the traits that make a “just OK” tour guide great.

Finally, additional training can also make your company more reputable. With a certification or two under their belt, your tour guides can make your company stand out from others in your area.

Remember that an excellent tour guide can leave a lasting impression on your guests and make them want to refer your company to their friends. A bad one can do just the opposite. Don’t you think that’s worth the investment?

An exceptional tour guide is an expert on their destination and the tours they’re leading. 

They’re  also charismatic  and know how to connect with guests. The best tour guides love being around people, have superior communication skills, and understand how to read a crowd.

Tour guides should also have great storytelling skills. They should be able to package information into interesting narratives that capture your guests’ attention.

Finally, a great tour guide is always enthusiastic about the experience they’re leading. They know how to get guests excited about your tours and make sure they’re enjoying themselves throughout the whole experience.

6 best training programs and courses for tour guides. 

Most training programs today are available online as well as in person. Whether you’re looking for destination-specific training or quick courses your guides can complete on the go, here are six of the best training programs available for tour guides.

TripSchool offers online courses as well as in-person destination training around the U.S. Co-founded by industry veterans Mitch Bach and Alan Armijo, the company is dedicated to helping both tour guides and operators offer travelers the best service possible.

Your guides can take several online courses with TripSchool, including:

• Local Tour Guide & Experience Certificate:  a complete tour guide training program
• Multi-Day Tour Director Certificate:  a program that’ll teach guides how to design memorable tour experiences
• Start Your Own Tour Business:  a step-by-step guide to starting a travel business
• Storytelling Mastery:  a program to help guides develop their storytelling skills
• Student Tour Mastery:  a guide to working with students specifically

TripSchool also offers in-person training specific to destinations like San Francisco and New Orleans. There are even experience-based programs like “New England Fall Foliage” and “Southwest National Parks” that are tailored to guides operating in those segments.

2.  International Tour Management Institute

The International Tour Management Institute (ITMI) is a well-known program that provides training from experienced leaders in the tourism industry. The tourism school focuses on hands-on, in-person training, although online courses are also available.

ITMI offers one- to two-week online self-study programs, where tour guides can learn the fundamentals of being a travel leader. There’s also a five-week online group training program that features 10 live classes for local guides.

The tour director coaching and certification program is five weeks long and includes four days of in-person field training. This program allows guides to practice their skills in real life and teaches them how to handle situations that may arise domestically and internationally.

All of the courses also include training in socially responsible and environmentally conscious tourism.

Veteran tour guide Kelsey Tonner started the Be a Better Guide project to connect tour and activity entrepreneurs all over the world.

His Online Tourism Academy features practical training programs for tour guides and operators alike. All courses can be completed online and are also available on mobile. They include:

• Create Unforgettable Tours:  A step-by-step program teaching guides or operators how to jumpstart their tour business.
• Scale Your Tour Business:  A program teaching operators how to grow their business.
• Entertain and Captivate:  Teaches tour guides how to use storytelling to captivate their guests.
• Inspire Your Staff:  A course dedicated to honing skills like customer service, public speaking, people skills, storytelling, and more.

The academy has a growing community of over 17,000 members from 40+ countries around the world.

The International Guide Academy started in 1973 with courses in Australia, Hong Kong, and London. In 1988, the academy began offering courses in the U.S. The company expanded to Mexico in 2007 and to Canada in 2010.

Local tour guides can participate in both online or in-person courses that teach leadership, research, and public speaking skills. The academy caps its class sizes at 22 students, which allows for more individual attention during and after the program.

The academy also lets tour operators design custom curriculums that meet their company’s specific needs.

5.  EastguidesWest

East guides West offers training and consulting for tour operators and tour guides in unknown, underrated, and under-valued destinations around the world. The program also connects local tour companies and guides to larger, more well-known Western tour operators.

Tour guide training ranges from starter courses touching on everything you need to know to become a guide to more immersive multi-day, in-person programs. Several online courses are also available, including one on tour problem solving and another about keeping guests healthy.

The Good Tourism Institute places an emphasis on sustainable tourism, the goal being to make the tourism industry a better place for businesses and travelers alike.

The company is working on an online course that teaches how to offer unique experiences that benefit your local community. The course will focus on the latest trends in modern-day tourism, strategy development, office management, communication, and online marketing.

If you’re looking for a way to make your company stand out from others in your area, investing in extra tour guide training is the way to go. Each company on this list offers a variety of different training programs that can help your guides offer the best service possible.

Writer Carla Vianna

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International Guide Academy

Training tomorrow’s tour directors and tour guides today..

Tour Director​

Tour Directors, also known as Tour Managers or Group Leaders, are hired by Tour Operators and are responsible for overseeing the logistical flow of the tour for their passengers.

Tour Guides offer local expertise through walking tours, motor coach narration, airport meet and greets, and Conventions support, in addition to other local opportunities.

After Graduation

Join our diverse array of classes in multiple locations like Denver, Miami/Ft. Lauderdale and aboard a cruise ship (December 2024).

Endorsements

Over the past 51 years, students from over 70+ countries across 6 continents have earned their certification and launched an exciting career traveling the world.

Here Are Just a Few of the Tour Companies that Hire IGA Graduates.

Why choose IGA ?

Pioneering legacy.

International Guide Academy was founded in 1973 and was the first company to provide certification courses for Tour Directors and Tour Guides.

Strong Code of Ethics

IGA emphasizes an awareness of, and an adherence to a Code of Ethics that benefits the graduate and the travel and tourism industry.

Superior Programs

IGA certification programs are constantly updated to reflect current conditions and skills required in the travel and tourism industry.

Seasoned Instructors

IGA instructors are seasoned travel and tourism professionals with years of experience leading groups. They bring to the courses experience that goes beyond textbooks.

A Meaningful Certification

At IGA, graduates earn their Certifications. IGA course work teaches skills that prepare students to become travel leaders. An IGA Certification is roughly the equivalent of one year gaining skills working as a Tour Director.

Multiple Locations and Formats

IGA offers their certification courses in a variety of locations and formats. In 2024, the Tour Directing course is held in Denver, Miami, and on a Cruise Ship! Tour Guide course is presented on-line Via Zoom.

About The International Guide Academy

“Embark on a journey towards a fulfilling career that will leave your friends in awe.” Choose the path of passion and excellence by earning your certification from the pioneers themselves – founded in 1973, we are THE original and THE most reputable institution in the field. Our commitment to superior certification programs, as well as our world-respected adherence to the strongest ethics, sets us apart as industry leaders.

Are you dreaming of a career as a Tour Director and/or Tour Guide?

Let IGA be your gateway to these fulfilling and rewarding new careers.  Contact us at 303.434.7557 and our company president, Daniel Slater, will personally answer ALL your questions.

Contact Information

8700 E Jefferson Ave #370190 Denver, CO 80237

+1 303-434-7557, [email protected].

Tour Director Certificate

Welcome to TripSchool’s Tour Director online training … your first step to becoming a tour director out in the world!

Becoming a tour director is one of the most thrilling careers you can have. It’s never old, never boring, but not for the faint of heart.

In this course we’ll outline all the details and skills you’ll need to succeed in the career.

Note: this training is sold through TripSchool’s website. Visit the course page here .

Course Content

About instructor.

Course Includes

• Course Certificate

Email Address

Remember Me

Registration confirmation will be emailed to you.

Campfire is a learning and networking hub for the experiences industry. Created by TripSchool and partners.

• Video Library

Find Guides

• Tour Guides
• Guide Job Board
• Tour Business Directory

Privacy Overview

Welcome to IATDG!

INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION FOR TOUR DIRECTORS & GUIDES

We are the world’s premier organization for group tour providers and leaders.

Whether you’re a tour director, guide, or run a tour company, IATDG is where you come to learn, get hired and connect with other industry professionals!

Orlando 2019!

The 2019 Tour & Talent Exchange is coming up soon! We can’t wait to see over 400 of you in Orlando for four days of interviews, professional development, and unparalleled networking opportunities.

▶ Watch this 2-minute video about a past conference!

Join the IATDG community today!

Becoming an iatdg member gives you the benefits and community that will help you succeed throughout your career..

Learning Opportunities

IATDG is much more than just an annual conference. Through our training partners, we offer exclusive opportunities all year long to learn new destinations, develop professionally, or get certified as a tour director if you’re new to the industry.

Upcoming IATDG Destination Trainings

Charleston & Savannah   December 9-13, 2019 US East Coast: Boston, NYC & Washington D.C. February 3-11, 2020 Canada: Toronto, Niagara, Ottawa, Montreal & Quebec City February 23-29, 2020 Canadian Maritimes June 22-28. 2020 New England Fall Foliage August, 2020 The Southwest National Parks August, 2020

GLOBAL TOUR DIRECTORS & GUIDES

TOUR OPERATORS

ANNUAL TRIPS TO LEAD

IATDG was founded in 2016 to offer a global community of tour directors and guides the chance to get hired, meet each other, and learn from industry leaders. Today our community of thousands of travel professionals form a worldwide community that supports and encourages each other in this industry!

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“IATDG changed my life!”

How to become a powerful tour director that wows guests

By Checkfront Marketing

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Maybe you’ve been working as a tour guide for years and you’re ready to take it to the next level — perhaps you’re looking into how to become a tour director.

Or you’re just starting out in the tour industry and dreaming about where you could take your career. Either way, being a tour director is a job like no other. 

You’ll wow guests with your storytelling skills, sharing your knowledge of the best spots in town and helping people tick items off their bucket lists. All this while traveling the world and making a living for yourself outside of the typical 9 to 5. 

But being a tour director is much more than being a tour guide — and getting a job as one is no easy feat. 

We’ll dive into the difference between a tour guide and a tour director, what skills and qualifications you need to become a tour director and share a step-by-step guide to help you land your first job as one. 

Why consider becoming a tour director

Tour guides and tour directors share some similarities. While a tour guide might lead a group around a city, national park, or venue for a few hours, a tour director’s responsibility takes on a new level.

Tour directors lead groups over several days or even weeks, taking them to multiple destinations.

As a tour director, you’ll have many of the same responsibilities as a tour guide including: 

• Guiding guests around a venue, site, or nature spot or on an activity 
• Engaging the group and sharing information in a fun way 
• Making sure everyone stays safe and together 
• Expert knowledge of the local area and destinations en route

Of course, roles will vary for different tour operators. While a tour guide is responsible for staying with a group on a multi-day tour, a tour director takes on additional logistic and management responsibilities.

Typically, as a tour director, you’ll also be responsible for: 

• Creating and/or providing any step-on guides to make sure the whole trip runs smoothly
• Connecting with accommodation providers, fellow tour operators and restauranteurs
• Email and/or phone communication with guests in advance of each trip
• Planning activity duration along with start/end times, and when guests can enjoy some free time
• Being available to guests (most likely 24/7) to answer questions and respond to emergencies
• Solving problems — like delayed transport, a closed venue, or guests leaving medication at last night’s hotel
• Transporting guests to different places or overseeing this transportation 
• Staying on top of travel arrangements and keeping all plans on schedule

What does a Tour Director do

A tour director leads a group of travelers on a trip that could last anywhere from two days to several weeks. Along the way, you’ll visit multiple sites, most likely a range of historical, cultural, and nature sites, doing tours and activities at each one. 

You may lead these tours yourself, and local tour guides (also called “step-on guides”) might join for portions of the trip. Local tour guides bring an insider’s perspective to a neighbourhood walking tour or expertise on a particular topic. 

For example, on a 10-day trip around northern Italy, a local artist might lead a street art tour on one of the days and an expert sommelier may talk the group through a wine tasting on another day, then it’s back to you.

While some multi-day tours might be booked out by one group — like 20 family members getting together for a yearly reunion — you’ll most likely be leading a group of mostly strangers, helping them bond as you all travel together. 

You can be hired as a full-time employee for one tour operator or as a contractor. So, the work can be flexible and you can decide how many tours you lead each year. 

How Much Do Tour Directors Make? 

According to Glassdoor , the average salary for a tour director in the United States is US$47,011, in Canada, it’s CAD$86,090, and in the United Kingdom, it’s £54,102.

But that salary can vary. It all depends on where in the world you work, how many responsibilities you take on during the trip, and whether you’re an employee, contractor, or tour director for your own business.  

What Skills Do You Need to Become a Tour Director

Many skills of a tour guide are the same as those needed to be a great tour director. But here are the ones you’ll need to hone in particular: 

1. Customer service

You’ll be dealing with guests day in, day out. You’ll need to be friendly, charming, and approachable, even when it feels like everything is going wrong. 

2. Public speaking

You’ll need confidence speaking in front of large groups and the ability to capture people’s attention and tell a great story.

You’ll need to learn how to write a tour guide script and come up with the funny things tour guides say by cracking a joke or two along the way. 

3. Organization

There are a lot of moving parts to consider. Your role guiding parts of the trip will be getting people from point A to B, working with step-on guides and multiple stops on the route.

You need to keep the whole trip moving on time, too. After all, you’ve got other activities planned! 

4. People skills

You’ll need to bring together different personalities from around the world and adapt your guiding style to suit the group.

You’ll also be dealing with accommodation owners, restaurants, tour activities, venues, step-on guides, and drivers. It’s a lot of people to manage and you’ll have to be able to stay on top of communications. 

5. Leadership

Guests need to feel like their tour director has each situation under control. Ideally, you want guests to respect arrival and departure times. And it’s up to you to keep morale high when activities get sidetracked while managing group dynamics.

6. Problem-solving

Plenty of things can go wrong: a guest gets sick, the weather rains off your vineyard tour, and the coach breaks down.

You need to be quick on your feet and flexible, managing the guests’ expectations while finding solutions to keep the tour moving. All while being calm and good-tempered despite any hurdles you come across. 

7. Passion for the industry

Guests want a tour director who’s excited about what they’re doing — even if they’ve been on the road for three months straight. You’ll also love to keep learning interesting information to share with guests and new ways to share it.

8. Comfortable being on the road

While a tour guide probably sleeps in their own bed each night, as a tour director, you might be on the road for weeks at a time, stringing together long tours back-to-back. 

What Qualifications Do You Need to Become a Tour Director

While many tour directors have a Bachelor’s degree, you don’t need one to break into the industry. A high school diploma may be enough depending on the tour operator you want to work for. 

Degrees in business administration or tourism management are particularly useful, and you can even do tour guide training programs and specific training in tour directing from private companies. 

Qualifications in common tour activities — like quad bike guiding or wine tasting — will make you stand out to tour operators who offer those types of tours. 

You should also look into whether you need a tour guiding or directing license. This all depends on where you work. While some cities require you to get a license and pass an exam, others have no requirements at all.

How to Become a Tour Director: A Step-by-Step Guide 

Convinced this is the career for you? Here’s how to make it happen. 

Step 1: Build Your Skills as a Tour Guide or Through Other Jobs 

As we’ve said, a tour director will be responsible for a lot of things, being both customer-facing and in charge of keeping things moving behind the scenes. The more you can build the skills needed for the job, the better. 

The best way to do this is by working as a tour guide. You’ll get hands-on experience guiding guests, speaking about an area or venue, and keeping groups safe and engaged. Try guiding different types of tours (think food, history, and outdoor activities) to get a range of experience for your resume.  

Even if you haven’t worked as a tour guide, you can build your skills through other jobs. Hospitality and events opportunities along with teaching jobs (especially if you volunteer to run a student trip) can build skills in leading and managing groups. 

Step 2: Consider Training and Licenses 

Consider getting some training in tour directing. You can look into local college courses or invest in an online course or in-person training. Doing so will not only build your skills, but it’ll also help you stand out from other applicants, especially if you don’t have much tour guiding experience. 

There are plenty of companies offering tour guide training programs , but also some offering training for tour directors specifically, such as: 

• The International Tour Management Institute offers a tour director course and certification through online learning and in-person training in California
• The International Guide Academy offers tour director courses in Denver, Fort Lauderdale, and onboard a cruise ship.
• TripSchool offer online and in-person tour director and guide training 

Plus, you should consider any licenses needed to work in your country, as well as those needed to drive vehicles or teach adventure sports, which will help you stand out to tour operators. 

Step 3: Prepare Your Resume, Cover Letter, and Video Introduction  

Tour director hiring is very different to tour guide hiring . Tour operators will be looking for many of the same things — personality, people skills, reliability — but they’ll also need to see if you can guide guests over longer trips. 

But how do you show that without meeting a tour operator in person? Here’s what to consider when applying for tour director jobs. On your application:

• Include interests and hobbies:  of course travel is one of these, but what else? Tell the tour operator about your love for architecture, rafting, or modern art, especially if they offer tours related to that topic.
• Include a photo: it’s a customer-facing role afterall. Make sure you look friendly yet professional, and the photo is high-quality and clear.
• Keep it short: Keep your resume concise and to one page. 
• Include extra skills: Don’t forget to include any languages you speak or if you hold multiple passports — especially if the tour operator offers international tours. 

And when crafting your cover letter: 

• Let your personality shine through: don’t just repeat what’s on your resume. Add more personality and share why you’d be great for this role.
• Mention past employers wisely: If you mention tour operators you’ve worked for in the past, remember it’s a small industry. The company you’re applying to may know them and reach out for a reference, so only include them only if they have nice things to say about you. 
• Tailor it to the job and tour operator you’re applying to : if the tour operator mainly runs student tours, for example, talk about how you can engage a group of rowdy kids or make history fun for young people with your lively storytelling 
• Keep it short: around two to three paragraphs should be enough. 

Video introduction

While not every tour operator will require a video, more tour companies are requesting it as part of the hiring process. A video introduction allows you to introduce yourself, share more about your skills, and offer an anecdote about your experience that demonstrates why you’re the right person for the job. 

The benefits of video introductions are that tour operators can see your personality beyond what they can absorb from your resume and cover letter. Plus, you’ll have a better chance to showcase your confidence, humour, and speaking skills. 

Some tips for video introductions: 

• Keep it short: one to two minutes maximum. 
• Write a script beforehand:  this will reduce the chance of stumbling over your words, going off on a tangent, or your mind going blank. 
• Record yourself and watch it back: are you speaking too robotically or too fast? Are you smiling? Are you standing in the shadows? Is your brightly coloured checkered sweater too distracting? 
• Film in the right spot: make sure it isn’t too noisy, or dark, and you don’t have a distracting background.
• Consider investing in a phone microphone: this will help to improve the sound quality. 
• Skip the selfie angle: ask a trusted family member or friend to film you or use a tripod.

Step 4: Look for Tour Director Jobs 

There are a few different places you can find tour director jobs: 

Online Job Boards 

Search online job boards like Glassdoor , LinkedIn , and Indeed , as well as travel job boards like Travel Massive , GoAbroad , and Coolworks . You can also check tour operator websites for job openings. 

Hiring Conferences

Search for upcoming hiring conferences and grab yourself a ticket. For example, the International Association of Tour Directors & Guides has a hiring event where you can interview multiple tour operators as well as attend educational talks. 

Prepare some business cards and copies of your resume to take with you to these types of events, even if you don’t have interviews lined up. After all, you never know who you’re going to bump into! 

Online Groups and Networking

Online communities and social media groups in the tour industry are great for meeting people, but they’re also a gold mine for finding jobs. Tour director jobs may be shared directly in these groups, or you can reach out to your connections to see if anyone knows of a company that’s hiring. 

Contact your local tour guide guild to see if they can connect you with tour operators looking for tour directors. And be sure to reach out to any tour director or tour guide friends to let them know you’re looking for a job. You never know who is connected to who. 

Reach Out to Tour Operators

Be proactive in your search and reach out to tour operators to ask if they’re hiring any tour directors. If peak travel season is coming up, they may well be. And if not, they might keep your resume on file and get in touch at a later date when they do need a tour director. 

Final thoughts 

Becoming a tour director may seem like a daunting challenge. But by building the right skills and experience, preparing your application materials, and knowing where to look for jobs — you can land your dream job. 

Looking for more tips for training tour guides?

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Certifications

Best Tour Director certifications

Tour director certifications allow job seekers to demonstrate their competency as an tour director to employers. However, not all tour director certifications provide the same value for job seekers. The best certifications for a tour director are Certified Tour Professional (CTP), Certified Tour Guide / Director, and Travel and Tourism Professional (TTP). Below is a list of the best tour director certifications. Obtaining an tour director certification will give you a leg up when you apply for jobs and increase your potential salary.

3 best certifications for tour directors

3 best tour director certifications, 1. certified tour professional (ctp).

Packaged travel professionals who obtain, and maintain, their CTP designation demonstrate to the industry that they are experienced, knowledgeable and motivated professionals who care about the industry and the colleagues with whom they work. The CTP is considered the hallmark of professional competency and excellence in the packaged travel industry.

• More than two years of education or training after high school required?   Yes
• More than two years of work experience required?   Yes
• Oral or Written Exam Required?   Yes
• Renewal Required?   Every 5 year(s)
• Tour Manager

2. Certified Tour Guide / Director

The 15-day Tour Director/Tour Guide Certification Program is held in San Francisco, CA and consists of 40% classroom and 60% in-the-field training. Because of the real-world training needed, this program is not offered online. Topics covered during the training include; Local and City Sightseeing, Psychology of Group Travel, Motorcoach / Intermodal Tours, International Air Tours, Travel Emergencies, and Healthy Travel.

• More than two years of education or training after high school required?   No
• More than two years of work experience required?   No
• Renewal Required?  

3. Travel and Tourism Professional (TTP)

Travel is an exciting, multi-faceted business for service oriented professionals that want to work independently or for a variety of employers.

• Renewal Required?   Every 2 year(s)
• Travel Manager

What is the best certification for a tour director?

The best tour director certification is Certified Tour Professional (CTP). The Certified Tour Professional (CTP) is awarded by the National Tour Association. The advanced certification is for more experienced employees as it often requires some work experience to acquire. Here's a bit more background on how to obtain this tour director certification: To become a certified Certified Tour Professional (CTP), you need to pass the exam. This certificate requires more than two years of work experience. Renew certification every 5 year.

The most common combination of tour director certifications include: Certified Tour Professional (CTP), Certified Tour Guide / Director, and Travel and Tourism Professional (TTP).

Online courses for tour directors to earn certifications

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Tour Guide Certification: Knowledge and Trust

Becoming a certified tour guide can significantly enhance your career in the travel industry. Tour guide certification not only validates your expertise but also boosts your credibility and professionalism. In this article, we will explore …

Written by: Johny D.

Published on: June 30, 2023

Becoming a certified tour guide can significantly enhance your career in the travel industry. Tour guide certification not only validates your expertise but also boosts your credibility and professionalism.

In this article, we will explore the importance of tour guide certification, the process involved, and the benefits it offers to both tour guides and travelers. Get ready to discover how certification can take your tour guiding skills to new heights and open doors to exciting opportunities.

What is Tour Guide Certification?

Definition and purpose of tour guide certification:

Tour guide certification is a formal recognition of a tour guide’s competence and expertise in providing professional guiding services. It signifies that a tour guide has met specific standards and possesses the necessary knowledge and skills to deliver exceptional experiences to travelers.

Types of certifications available:

When it comes to tour guide certifications, there are various types available, catering to different destinations and specializations within the travel industry. Here are some common types of certifications:

• National or Regional Certifications: These certifications are issued by national or regional tourism authorities and focus on specific countries or regions. Examples include the Blue Badge Guide certification in the United Kingdom or the Certified Tour Guide designation by the National Institute of Tourism Promotion in a specific country.
• Cultural and Historical Certifications: These certifications specialize in cultural and historical destinations, providing in-depth knowledge of specific sites and landmarks. For example, the International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) offers certifications for heritage interpretation and conservation.
• Adventure and Outdoor Certifications: For guides specializing in adventure tourism or outdoor activities, certifications such as Wilderness First Aid or Leave No Trace Trainer Certification can be valuable. These certifications demonstrate expertise in safety, wilderness skills, and sustainable practices.
• Sustainable Tourism Certifications: As sustainability becomes increasingly important in the travel industry, certifications such as the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) certification or the Travelife certification showcase a guide’s commitment to responsible and eco-friendly tourism practices.
• Specialized Tour Certifications: These certifications focus on specific types of tours, such as culinary tours, wine tours, or wildlife tours. They equip guides with specialized knowledge and skills required to deliver exceptional experiences in those areas.
• Language and Cultural Interpretation Certifications: For multilingual guides or guides operating in multicultural settings, language and cultural interpretation certifications can be valuable. These certifications ensure proficiency in multiple languages and understanding of cross-cultural communication.
• Professional Association Certifications: Many professional associations, such as the International Tour Management Institute (ITMI) or the Professional Tour Guide Associations in different countries, offer certifications specific to their organization. These certifications demonstrate adherence to professional standards and a commitment to ongoing education and development.

Benefits of Tour Guide Certification

Enhanced knowledge and skills:

Certification programs provide tour guides with comprehensive training, covering various aspects of guiding, including destination knowledge, storytelling techniques, group management, and safety protocols. This training equips guides with the knowledge and skills needed to deliver informative and engaging tours.

Increased credibility and professionalism:

Tour guide certification enhances your professional standing by demonstrating your commitment to the highest industry standards. It instills confidence in travelers, as they know they are in the hands of a knowledgeable and trustworthy guide. Certification sets you apart from non-certified guides and increases your chances of securing employment with reputable tour operators.

What Does Tour Guide Certification Entail?

Educational requirements and training programs:

Tour guide certification typically involves completing a structured educational program that covers a range of topics relevant to tour guiding. These programs may be offered by accredited organizations, colleges, or vocational schools, and can vary in duration and curriculum.

Examinations and practical assessments:

Certification programs often include written examinations to evaluate a guide’s understanding of the course material. Additionally, practical assessments may be conducted to assess guiding skills, such as leading mock tours or demonstrating effective communication with guests.

Where to Obtain Tour Guide Certification

Accredited organizations and institutions:

When seeking tour guide certification, it’s crucial to obtain it from accredited organizations or institutions recognized within the travel industry. Here are some reputable entities that offer accredited tour guide certifications:

• World Federation of Tourist Guide Associations (WFTGA): The WFTGA is a globally recognized federation that promotes and supports the profession of tour guiding. They provide certification programs through their member associations in different countries, ensuring high-quality standards and professional development for tour guides worldwide.
• International Guide Academy (IGA): The International Guide Academy offers comprehensive training and certification programs for aspiring tour guides. They provide both on-site and online courses, covering a wide range of topics such as guiding techniques, destination knowledge, and customer service skills.
• Institute of Tourist Guiding (ITG): The Institute of Tourist Guiding is a leading professional body in the United Kingdom. They offer accredited certifications, including the Blue Badge Guide and Green Badge Guide certifications, which are highly respected and recognized qualifications for tour guides in the UK.
• Professional Tour Guide Associations: Many countries have professional tour guide associations that offer certifications. Examples include the National Tour Association (NTA) in the United States, the Japan Guide Association (JGA), and the Professional Tourist Guides Association of South Africa (PTGSA). These associations set standards and provide training and certification programs specific to their regions.
• Local Tourism Boards and Authorities: Local tourism boards and authorities in different countries often offer certifications for tour guides operating within their regions. These certifications ensure guides meet specific standards and possess the necessary knowledge to deliver high-quality tours. Examples include the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) or Tourism New Zealand’s Qualmark certification.
• Vocational Schools and Universities: Some vocational schools and universities offer tour guide certification programs as part of their travel and tourism curriculum. These programs provide comprehensive training and may offer diplomas or certificates upon completion. Examples include the Tourism and Travel Management programs at reputable institutions worldwide.

Online certification programs:

Online certification programs provide a convenient and flexible way to obtain tour guide certification from anywhere in the world. Here are some reputable online platforms that offer tour guide certification programs:

• Udemy: Udemy is a popular online learning platform that offers a variety of tour guide certification courses . These courses cover a wide range of topics, including destination knowledge, guiding techniques, storytelling, and customer service. Udemy courses are self-paced, allowing you to learn at your own convenience.
• Coursera: Coursera collaborates with leading universities and institutions to provide online certification programs, including those related to tour guiding. Their courses are designed by industry professionals and cover various aspects of tour guiding, such as cultural heritage interpretation, sustainable tourism, and destination management.
• Global Travel Academy: The Global Travel Academy offers an online tour guide certification program that covers essential skills and knowledge needed for professional guiding. Their comprehensive course includes modules on guiding techniques, customer service, safety protocols, and destination-specific information. The program provides the flexibility to study at your own pace.
• International Tour Management Institute (ITMI): ITMI offers an online tour director certification program for individuals interested in leading group tours. Their comprehensive curriculum covers topics such as itinerary planning, logistics management, group dynamics, and storytelling. The program includes online training modules, assignments, and practical assessments.
• iGottaGuide: iGottaGuide is an online platform that offers a self-paced certification program for tour guides. The program includes interactive modules on topics such as communication skills, guiding techniques, and destination knowledge. Upon successful completion, you receive a certification recognized by the iGottaGuide network.
• American Tour Guide Association (ATGA): ATGA offers an online tour guide certification program for individuals seeking to become professional guides in the United States. The program covers essential skills, legal requirements, and best practices for guiding in various regions of the country. The certification is recognized within the US tourism industry.

When choosing an online certification program, ensure that the provider is reputable, offers comprehensive curriculum content, and provides support and resources for your learning journey. Consider reading reviews, checking the course syllabus, and verifying the credibility of the certification upon completion.

Importance of Continuous Learning and Professional Development

Staying updated with industry trends and regulations:

The travel industry is constantly evolving, with new trends, regulations, and destinations emerging. As a certified tour guide, it is essential to stay informed and up-to-date with industry developments to provide the best possible experiences for your guests.

Engaging in additional training and specialized certifications:

To further enhance your skills and expand your knowledge, consider pursuing additional training and specialized certifications. These opportunities allow you to specialize in specific areas, such as sustainable tourism, cultural heritage, or adventure guiding, enabling you to offer unique and sought-after experiences.

Frequently Asked Questions

A. Is tour guide certification necessary to work as a tour guide?

While certification may not be mandatory in all destinations, it is highly recommended to pursue tour guide certification. Certification enhances your professionalism, provides a competitive edge, and gives you the knowledge and skills to deliver exceptional tour experiences.

B. How long does it take to get certified as a tour guide?

The duration of tour guide certification programs can vary, depending on the depth of the curriculum and the flexibility of the program. Programs can range from a few weeks to several months, depending on the intensity of study and practical training involved.

C. Are there different certifications for specific regions or types of tours?

Yes, there are certifications available that focus on specific regions or types of tours. These specialized certifications allow you to delve deeper into the unique aspects and requirements of particular destinations or niche markets within the travel industry.

Conclusion:

Tour guide certification offers numerous benefits for both tour guides and travelers alike. It provides enhanced knowledge and skills, increases credibility and professionalism, and opens doors to exciting career opportunities. By pursuing certification and engaging in continuous learning, you can become a top-tier tour guide, delivering memorable and enriching experiences to travelers from around the world.

Fun Fact: Did you know that the world’s oldest known tour guide certification program was established in 1950 in Switzerland? It aimed to ensure that tour guides met certain standards and provided high-quality guiding services. Since then, tour guide certification has become a global practice, with certifications offered in various countries across the globe.

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About Johny D.

Da Nang and Hoi An: A Mesmerizing 5-Day Journey

Thor’s extraordinary journey: travel w/o flying.

Dear Cherie,

I want to express my deepest appreciation to you and to your excellent classes in tour management.  I can truly say that you have changed my life!!

Through your all-encompassing  resources, I received the names of tour companies and cruise lines and learned the best approach to apply for a variety of tour-related jobs. 

Once I was hired as a Tour Director with a superior tour company, I had all of the skills necessary to perform my new job, thanks to the thorough instruction I had received from you. You gave top-notch training, good advice for all situations and I received a wealth of information from your classes.

I can thank you for the 17 successful years I have had as a Tour Director, along with the 18 exciting years I have spent at sea in my cruise line job.  Neither job would have been possible without you.

Not only did you provide detailed instruction and resources, you also provided a personal touch.  Through the years you have been available to your students, helping as necessary and rejoicing in our successes.  You have put in a good word when it was needed and you have provided new information.  You have even provided extra work assignments, such as the privilege to work the Super Bowl, the Rose Bowl and help out with shore work for cruise lines in port and in airports.  This has been outside the scope of your classes and you have gone over and above!

As I continue in my two rewarding jobs, your expertise and your relationships in the travel community has now provided me with a new and exciting challenge in an additional job onboard cruise ships, combining the skills and passions I have.  I look forward to this new addition and challenge to my career.  The last 18 years have been the most amazing, exciting and adventurous of my life and I have you and your classes to thank for that. 

If there is anyone thinking about embarking on a travel  career, I would say “Go for it”.  With Cherie as your unique teacher, you will have a fantastic journey! 

Check out my free  Video Series!

       New 2020 Online Master Course:

" Live Your Dream Travel Job! " New interactive online course: Click Here

Cherie Anderson earned her Bachelor of Arts in Secondary Education from Arizona State University and completed her graduate work at California State University of Northridge. After graduation she started her professional career as a high school physical education instructor.

Loving what she did but not quite feeling that her dreams were being met, Cherie searched for that perfect professional career that she could really be passionate about. When she found out about cruise hosting and tour directing she knew immediately that was the profession she longed for. Starting out as a cruise host, she spent several years escorting groups to Alaska, Mexico, the Panama Canal and the Caribbean the Caribbean, Asia, Australia, New Zealand, the South Pacific, and many more wonderful places extensive experience under her belt, Cherie went segued into becoming a full-time professional Tour Director, and traveled around the world!

I know the in's and out's of the travel industry and been training successful Tour Directors and Tour Guides for years! 

Don’t be shy! Contact me if you have questions or would just like to know more!

[email protected] Phone: 949 830 8603

Thought I would drop you a quick line. It's been almost a full year since I completed your on-line course (end of September). I have completed a full season with EF Explore America and am in full throttle with Paragon Tours.

I have passed my year end review with flying colors at EF and have been invited back for next season with a "not so bad" raise. This has all worked out well. I leave tomorrow AM for a Maine Booth bay Harbor tour which at this time of the year will be beautiful.

I do have to tell you that your course has opened the doors and the information learned is as good as anywhere else. I constantly get asked by other TD's what year I went to … and really knock their socks off when I told them where I was trained. Most, after paying big bucks, the very expensive travel school … are amazed and some are "really put off" because I got the same job as they did without paying thousands of dollars. I can stand my ground with the best of them. Of course, the knowledge is one thing, but once learned, it's the personality that makes the tour (and tips :-)).

Anyway, that’s it for now and thanks again!!!!!!!

I sent out about 10 resumes in early December and applied to a couple of cruise lines'  Alaska   programs.  I received one call for an interview in mid-December and had a phone interview just before X-mas.  The 35-minute interview, which consisted of questions, scenario and discussion was pretty intense, but I made it through, although I was a little nervous. The interviewer started out by asking what I thought the responsibilities were and my corresponding qualifications.  I was prepared with my list because of Cherie's outline in Lesson 12. This lesson was invaluable, especially Chapter 4. This was followed by the typical interview questions, some follow-up about the specifics of the position and then scenarios.  The scenarios were almost identical to what Cherie had prepared for us.  Anyway, last week I received an invitation to the TD training later this month.  I can't wait!

A special thanks Cherie for making it possible for us to break into this new career and get our first assignments. Take Care Randy

“Cherie Anderson is a vivacious, detail-oriented, multi-cultural, superior tour director who eagerly shares her passion for travel and her vast knowledge of our world. Not only is Cherie a tireless champion of the travel and tourism industry but also an approachable, sincere teacher always generous with her time and expertise.  Her "Tour Director Training Guide: Get Paid to Travel" should be on every travel agent's, tour operator's, and prospective tour director's/guide's book shelf. It was a real treat for us and our listeners to have Cherie on our radio show

"Travel Talk: Escapes."” February 28, 2009

Hi Cherie: Thank you once again for all your help and sending me the pdf files of your book. It is an amazing product and I congratulate you on it. For your information, I purchased the book for my "God son" as a graduation gift for his receiving his Master's Degree from Kings College in London. He is now beginning his studies for his Ph.D. I'm not sure what the correct title of his degree is but it is in the Tour and Travel Industry and deals with eco-travel and such. He is currently in Gran Canaria prior to beginning his continuing studies. He has already read your book and wanted me to tell you the following: "I want her to know that I'm finding the textbook EXTREMELY helpful!"

I'd also like for you to know that he is an AMAZINGLY talented young man and has a very promising future in the tour and travel industry. I was hoping he could enroll in your classes, but his studies abroad prevent that at this time, thus the reason for sending him your book and pdf files. And, as a result, he will escort his first international tour in March 2013 for a company based in Florida. Again, I am so thankful for your help as it has given me great joy to give your book to him to assist him in the beginning of his travels. I know he will be a blessing to all who travel with him.

Cordially, Jerry Burks Palm Springs, CA 92264

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