about me
Background & Qualifications
My name is Asteris Chatzikas and I am a International Mountain Leader based in Thessaloniki, Greece. I provide on-demand guiding and training for outdoor activities, including hiking, trekking and snowshoeing, both in Greece and abroad.
I hold both national and international mountain leading qualifications and am actively involved in the vocational training of future Mountain Leaders, contributing as an instructor in formal training programs.
Involvement
I am a board member of the Hellenic Mountain Leaders Association (HMLA) and serve as a delegate to the Union of International Mountain Leader Associations (UIMLA).
In this role, I have been closely involved in the process of HMLA becoming a full member of UIMLA, supporting training courses, organizing assessments and contributing to its successful integration into the international organization.
Mountain Rescue
I have been an active member of the Hellenic Rescue Team (HRT) for more than 10 years, serving in the Mountain Rescue Department.
My involvement includes volunteering, contributing to training as a Mountain Rescue and First Aid Instructor as well as a delegate to ICAR’s Avalanche Commission. In 2024, I was part of the organizing committee for the ICAR Congress, successfully held in Thessaloniki, Greece.
Guiding
Alongside my institutional and training roles, I have guided extensively in Greece and abroad, delivering experiences that range from single-day hikes to multi-day, self-supported treks.
My approach is centered on creating meaningful experiences in the mountains, where safety, awareness and immersion come first. I aim to inspire people to explore more, build confidence in their abilities and develop a deeper, more responsible connection with the natural environment.
