As a former porter himself, Simon knows how hard porters work to make your trips safe and enjoyable. That is why SENE respects and takes care of their crew. We provide a fair living wage, sufficient meals, proper shelter and sleeping arrangements. Our crew are not nameless individuals. They are crucial on the mountain and an important part of our success. They are the ones that make the experience fulfilling with endless singing, dancing and always a smile on each and every face.          

SENE supports the efforts of the Kilimanjaro Porters Assistant Project.   

The Kilimanjaro Porters Assistance Project is a Tanzanian NGO (Non-Governmental Organization) registered in January 2003. The Porters Project is an initiative of the International Mountain Explorers Connection, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization based out of Boulder, CO in the United States.

The focus of the Kilimanjaro Porters Assistance Project (KPAP) is improving the working conditions of the porters on Kilimanjaro. We do this by:  

• Lending clothing at no charge to the porters for their climbs  in class
• Teaching English, First Aid, HIV/AIDS, and Money Management classes to the porters during the low seasons
• Raising public awareness concerning proper porter treatment

KPAP's Recommended Guidelines for Proper Porter Treatment:

• Porters are paid the Kilimanjaro National Park's recommended wages of 6,000Tsh/day for the Marangu route and 8,000Tsh/day for all other camping routes.
• Loads do not exceed 25 kilos
• Porters receive the full amount of tip intended for them
• Porters are outfitted with proper clothing and gear
• Porters have proper shelter and sleeping equipment
• Porters are provided with food and water
• Number of crew is consistent throughout the trip
• Sick or injured porters are properly cared for

The Partnership for Responsible Travel Program recognizes companies with fair labor practices and conscientious operations. As a Partner for Responsible Travel the company is expected to:   Logo for KPAP's Partner for Responsible Travel

• Adhere in practice to KPAP’s recommended guidelines for Proper Porter Treatment.
• Allow the company to be monitored for observance of these guidelines.
• Have a representative from each climbing group complete KPAP’s Climb Survey online.
• Have clients visit the Kilimanjaro Porters Assistance Project office in Moshi or allow KPAP’s volunteers to speak with climbers at the gates.
• Assist KPAP in transporting donated clothing for our clothing lending program.

Courier Program:
Carry clothing to Tanzania. The Kilimanjaro Porters Assistance Project is in great need of people and companies who are coming to climb Kilimanjaro who would be willing to act as couriers by transporting clothing. These items, donated by manufacturers, ski schools, and individuals, are available for borrow to outfit porters.

The airlines from the U.S. presently allow a passenger to carry 2 pieces of luggage at 50 pounds each when traveling directly to Africa. If you suspect that you will be under the weight limit and would like to assist KPAP, they would send you one of their duffel bags filled with donated clothing. As KPAP is a nonprofit organization, they ask of your consideration to pay for the shipping charges as a tax deductible donation. Average cost is $40 to $60. The clothing is stored in Boulder, CO and Seattle, WA and will be hand delivered to you if you are departing from these areas. A letter will also be emailed to you that will assist you with customs. One month’s notice prior to your departure is appreciated.

Please contact jack@mountainexplorers.org if interested in participating or if you know of anyone who can help.

Download a guide to your porter.