Kilimanjaro climb, Rongai route

The Nale Moru (Rongai) route offers the advantage of attempting the climb in relative seclusion compared to the more crowded Marangu and Machame routes. On Kilimanjaro, we have built a number of standards into our mountain services. All cooking is on gas or kerosene stoves (rather than firewood) and all rubbish is carried off the mountain. Hot washing water in bowls is provided to avoid polluting the streams. Porter welfare is another important part of our staff policy.

You may be surprised to learn that, after the Kilimanjaro Park Fees, porterage is easily the largest single ground cost element on the climb and so the temptation for unscrupulous operators to reduce this cost always exists. Treatment of local staff is one of the major differences we have identified in the operational standards offered by tour operators in Tanzania.

We pay one of the highest salaries on Kilimanjaro, and we pay immediately after the trek. We are one of the few companies who meet the National Park guidelines in this area. We ensure that the porters have sufficient food and fuel for the trek. We provide communal sleeping tents for all staff on all camping routes. Sick porters have access to the same medical box as our clients and do not lose part of their salary because of illness. These initiatives do not mean that we are 'soft' employers; indeed, we have found that it is easier to obtain high standards of service when staff are treated fairly.Our local coordinators, The African Walking Company, very much share these aims and are actively working with the management of Kilimanjaro National Park to improve visitor facilities, the treatment of local staff, and the training of local guides.

Additionally, we add an extra day to the standard five-day itinerary to ensure maximum acclimatisation and give ourselves the best possible chance of enjoying the magnificent scenery. Recent statistics indicate that the chance of reaching the summit increases by at least 20% if an extra day is spent acclimatising. During the years 2000-2001, almost 90% of the clients on this trip reached Gillmans Point and nearly 70% reached Uhuru Peak, the true summit of Kilimanjaro. We also have an optional village walk that explores Marangu for half a day. This village is a fascinating mixture of small but fertile coffee and banana farms, friendly Chagga people, and some beautiful scenery with waterfalls and magnificent views. Part of the revenue from these walks goes directly to a locally managed project that aims to improve the poor facilities in local schools.