Who am I?
My name is Benoît Sauvagnat, an explorer of trees and forests since childhood. A dreamer, treehouse builder, and passionate climber, I have always found in trees a refuge and a place for learning.
My roots
I grew up in the Combrailles, in the Auvergne region, where my feet spent more time in forest humus than on pavement. The forest was my first field of study: observing, touching, climbing, understanding… It was only natural that I turned toward ecology.
After completing a scientific baccalaureate with a focus on ecology, I continued with a BTS in Nature Management and Conservation, driven by the desire to understand ecosystems and share their beauty.
My paths
I then ventured into organic market gardening for two years, before travel became a part of my life. Between trips and work periods, I discovered supervised tree climbing and became an instructor on nature retreats. Gradually, I realized that this activity brings together everything I love: education, nature, emotions, and sharing.
The evidence
After several stays, I decided to pursue the Professional Qualification Certificate as a Tree Climbing Instructor (EGA) — the only certification in the world dedicated to this activity.
Today, sharing tree climbing, nature, and the outdoors with both children and adults has become my daily mission.
My vision
Respect for life
The tree is always at the center of each installation.
Transmission
support, reassure, inspire, share.
Creativity
Imagine spaces that are tailored to places and people.
Authenticity
Offering simple, human, and joyful moments.
Can't find the answer to your question?
Your frequently asked questions
Do you have to be fit to participate?
No, our activities are accessible to everyone, with no need for experience or particular physical fitness.
We adapt each facility to suit everyone’s abilities, including people with disabilities.
Where do the activities take place?
Jiwikaia operates on its own sites in France and Switzerland, carefully selected for the quality of their environment and the beauty of their trees.
We can also operate directly on your property. In this case, a site assessment and a phytosanitary diagnosis are carried out beforehand to ensure the safety of the location and the health of the trees.
How long does an activity last?
It depends on the format chosen.
An activity can last from a few hours (workshop, introduction, guided activity) to several days for a full stay or a complete bivouac.
Is it secure?
Yes, absolutely.
All our installations are supervised by professional climbers, trained in safety and in guiding participants. All equipment is checked before each use, complies with current standards, and is recorded in a Personal Protective Equipment log.
Participants remain roped in throughout the entire activity to ensure their safety.
Who puts the first rope in the tree?
We work closely with a team of trained squirrels. They are all skilled at rope installation, well cared for, and fed with top-quality seeds.