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When climbing Kilimanjaro, unless you have been referred to a reputable tour company from a trusted friend, there are several things you must look out for. This article will better educate you on the do’s and don’ts before you begin your journey.
• Unfortunately, there continue to be Kilimanjaro websites that are here today and gone tomorrow (after collecting your tour fees by way of wire transfer). A primary indicator of these outfits are companies that only offer wire transfers as acceptable payment. Wire transfers, cashiers check, or personal checks are acceptable forms of payment, but only if the trekking company also accepts Credit Cards. Remember, you have no recourse if a disputed charge is needed unless you pay by way of credit card.
• Avoid companies that outsource their guides. Meaning once your tour is booked, they send your tour out for bid to the cheapest priced available guide. Seek out companies that employee their own guides. This will ensure they have control over the quality of the personnel and also ensures your experience isn’t just tossed to a group of unlicensed guides.
• Select a guide service before you go. Since you must use a guide to climb Kilimanjaro depending upon the route and the expedition you wish to receive, climbing Mt Kilimanjaro can range from $1,600 to $6,000. You certainly don’t won’t to be on the low end (you can find plenty of reviews on that) and the high end is simply overpriced. Somewhere in the middle is where you’ll typically find a comfortable climb with competent staff using proper safety measures and regulations on the mountain.
• Get an accurate count of the porters and request a list of written names as your trek begins. Since porters loads are regulated by the National Parks, each porters pack is weighed to ensure proper treatment of porters and not to exceed the limits placed upon them. But for the scamming companies, within several miles of the trail, you can see porters transferring their loads to another and departing off a side trail leading outside the park. Not only are the porters overworked and paid the same wage, but then the departing porters show up at the end of the climb reaching their hands out for a tip. While you may only make friends with your guides, cooks and a few porters, it will suit you well to briefly meet and shake hands with each mountain crew member before you start.
• It is wise to get a list of porters before you leave and give them tips directly after in the parking lot before you depart from your climb.
• Select Guides that are certified by the TANAPA. This ensures every aspect of your tour is in compliance with the National Parks, and your trek will
• Finally, a simple call to speak with the guide service can eliminate many of the scamming companies or low level touring outfits. You can also eliminate many companies if they have no phone number at all on their site. You should be able to quickly assess a tour company that’s right for you by asking the questions above. Best of luck with your adventure and may you have an enjoyable and worthwhile time in Africa.