Mount Kilimanjaro Expedition 2012

Kilimanjaro Crew

The Kilimanjaro Mountain Crew are special, super humans beings... Not only do they take care of you, most of them climb with you all the way to basecamp, where they patiently await your return. The Chief Guides and Assistant Guides even go right to the Summit with you!

The Mountain Crew are the most hard working people on the mountain. It is their responsibility to cook your meals, set up camp, and in some cases, carry you down if it becomes neccessary. They will do everything in their power to get you to the top.

For the two of us, our Mountain Crew consisted out of ten people: 6 porters, a waiter, chef, Chief Guide, and Assistant Guide. Every morning we were provided with warm water and breakfast before the Crew broke down camp and hurried away to go setup at the next camping location. Upon arriving at the next camp, everything was ready and waiting.

Tipping the porters and guides are a tradition that everyone on the mountain adheres to. What amount the tips should be are generally communicated to the hikers via their various tour operators, but, because these guys literally are one of the reasons we made it to the top, we decided to give them even more than is normally given. I think they truly deserved it.

Be nice to your Mountain Crew, and do not take advantage of their willingness to do almost anything you ask. They are friendly and helpful, and by building a good relationship with them, you will make your Kilimanjaro experience even better.