Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is a bucket-list adventure for many, but behind every successful summit stands a dedicated team of porters. These unsung heroes play a crucial role in every trek, ensuring climbers have the support they need to reach the Roof of Africa. Let’s take an inside look at a day in the life of porters on Kilimanjaro.
Morning Routine
The day for a porter starts before dawn. While climbers are still tucked away in their sleeping bags, porters are already up, preparing breakfast and boiling water. They pack up the campsite, carefully organizing tents, cooking gear, and personal belongings into their loads. Each porter typically carries up to 20 kg (44 lbs) of gear — a limit set by the Kilimanjaro National Park authorities to prevent exploitation.
We have a porter whose job it is to run ahead to the next camp to get the best campsite. He makes sure it has the best views and is far from the toilets.
On the Trail
Once everything is packed, porters hit the trail, often moving at a faster pace than the climbers to reach the next campsite ahead of the group. This allows them time to set up tents, start preparing meals, and ensure everything is ready by the time the trekkers arrive. Despite the physical strain, porters navigate rocky paths and steep ascents with remarkable agility and endurance. Many wear simple footwear, sometimes even worn-out sneakers, highlighting the challenging conditions they face daily.
At the Campsite
Upon reaching the next camp, porters quickly spring into action. They pitch tents, organize the communal dining area, and start cooking.
Our porters eat their meals before serving the clients. Usually, the clients are still hiking from the previous campsite.
Some porters double as cooks or waiters, serving food and ensuring climbers are comfortable. Others fetch water from nearby streams, often hiking additional distances to secure clean water. It’s a seamless operation, yet one that requires incredible teamwork and discipline.
Evening Routine
After dinner, porters clean up the campsite and prepare for the next day’s trek. Only once their duties are done can they relax and rest. The high-altitude cold can be harsh so the porters huddle together in larger tents. Despite this, many porters maintain a positive attitude, singing songs and sharing stories to lift everyone’s spirits.
The Challenges They Face
Porters endure long hours, heavy loads, and extreme weather conditions. Unfortunately, not all trekking companies treat their porters fairly. Some porters face low wages, inadequate food, poor sleeping conditions, and lack of proper gear. This is why organizations like the Kilimanjaro Porters Assistance Project (KPAP) are vital.
Kilimanjaro Porters Assistance Project (KPAP)
KPAP is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the working conditions of porters on Kilimanjaro. They collaborate with responsible tour operators to ensure fair wages, adequate food, proper gear, and ethical treatment. KPAP also educates porters about their rights and offers training programs. Tour operators partnering with KPAP commit to transparent practices, ensuring climbers’ journeys are not only memorable but also ethical.
A Final Thought
Porters are the backbone of every Kilimanjaro climb. Their tireless work and unwavering dedication make it possible for adventurers to achieve their dreams of standing atop Africa’s highest peak. By choosing a KPAP-partnered company, you can ensure these incredible individuals are treated with the respect and dignity they deserve.
So next time you set foot on Kilimanjaro, remember to show your appreciation — a simple ‘asante’ (thank you in Swahili) goes a long way.