Porters on Mount Kilimanjaro – Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is considered more accessible than other Seven Summits, as even disabled individuals, the elderly, and children have been able to ascend without technical equipment or mountaineering experience.
The success rate for reaching the summit depends on various factors, and porters significantly increase your chances by taking on the responsibility of carrying most of your equipment while you hike.
Mount Kilimanjaro rises to an impressive 5,895 meters above sea level, making it the highest mountain in Africa and the tallest free-standing mountain in the world.
Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro typically requires 5 to 9 days on the mountain, during which trekkers cover long distances daily and mostly sleep in camps. The exception is the Marangu route, which provides huts.
Porters on Mount Kilimanjaro
Porters are dedicated individuals who assist tourists on their journey up Mount Kilimanjaro. Since there is no accommodation at the summit, tourists must carry tents, sleeping bags, personal items, utensils, and other essentials for their time on the mountain.
Porters usually precede you with your luggage, allowing you to carry only light baggage, making your climb more manageable and comfortable.
By the time you arrive at the campsite, porters have already set up your tents and other essentials.
The life of a porter involves a continuous cycle of ascending and descending Mount Kilimanjaro throughout the year, yet the compensation they receive is modest.
Tipping porters at the end of the trip is the best way to show gratitude, although it is not mandatory. Tourists can tip based on their budget and preference.
Porters are typically locals from the slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro and are advised to carry a maximum of 20 kilograms of luggage during the hike.
Some porters endure poor working conditions, depending on the company they work for.
Others work as freelancers, with no health benefits or contracts, relying on the chance of finding work from hikers at the start of the trek.
The duties of a porter include ensuring access to clean water, carrying items, assisting the chef in preparing and serving food, washing dishes after meals, and providing encouragement to climbers for comfort and safety. They are always ready to help, even in emergencies.
Unfortunately, some companies mistreat porters, evident in the worn-out clothes and shoes they wear, which can sometimes lead to hypothermia.
Additionally, some porters lack adequate food and proper shelter during the climb, despite the physical strength required to carry luggage.
Another challenge porters face is low daily wages. The minimum daily wage for porters is only $8, and some companies pay even less.
It is recommended to tip porters after a climb to support their efforts.
Tanzania Porters Association (TPA)
The Tanzania Porters Association (TPA) was established to improve the working conditions of porters on Mount Kilimanjaro.
This organization has implemented rules and regulations to protect porters.
The vision of the TPA is to promote the welfare and rights of porters on Mount Kilimanjaro and Mount Meru, ensuring fair pay and working conditions for all.
The organization’s objectives include educating porters about their rights and safety and addressing their socio-economic well-being while they work on Mount Kilimanjaro and Mount Meru.
