SummitPost.org

In correspondence recently with guiding companies in the Elbrus area regarding a possible ascent this summer. At least one company has said that the guide will be qualified to "UIAGM/IFMGA (or equivalent)". It's the "or equivalent" bit that intrigues me. What else could sensibly be regarded as an equivalent to this? Are there local Russian (or even more local) qualifications that would be equally acceptable for a guide on Elbrus.

Can anyone advise, please?

JD