Dani Perret

Dani Perret is a certified UIAGM mountain guide who is based in the big mountain Mecca of Engelberg in Switzerland.

Perret is The Mountain Studio’s go-to guide whenever we need to explore something new, and he always handles it in a safe manner thanks to his bundles of experience and knowledge.

Perret’s a true mountain man, born and raised in the Swiss Alps, and spends most of his time skiing, mountaineering, climbing, or trail running out on the mountains. A lifetime of this has left him with a wealth of knowledge that he’s passionate about sharing with others. Dani’s the founder of Engelberg Mountain Guides, and has also written several guidebooks, all to help more people experience adventure and wonder in the mountains.

Most memorable skiing experience

“There are so many that it’s hard to pick just one. My job is a wonderful mix of easy days and bigger adventures. In general terms, though, starting the Urner Haute Route hut to hut tour after a late dinner, followed by walking and skiing in moonlight until the sun rises in the morning is quite a special experience. Another highlight is skiing untracked powder on what we call the Big-5 in Engelberg with a group of friendly, experienced clients. Other days, I enjoy the challenge of showing people some of the more advanced runs in the real backyard of Titlis. There’s real adventure to be had there, but you need some rope skills, skins, and determination.”

“As a guide, I want to be able to offer every guest a lasting experience that’s appropriate for their level. I also want to tempt the people who put their trust in me to venture out of their comfort zones and widen their horizons, with safety and fun front of mind at all times.”

How do you maintain your passion for skiing when you’re working as a guide?

“I always have to do ski tours for myself, and try to push myself to or beyond my limits. It’s important to never stop learning for yourself, and to keep learning more about the conditions on the mountain. If I neglect things like that, I’ll soon run out of patience and passion.”