Pristine Trails was among a few Kilimanjaro Porter Assistance Project partner companies that took part in a Mt. Kilimanjaro cleaning initiative at the beginning of September. This was a voluntary initiative taken upon by the Mt. Kilimanjaro National Park Authority and a few companies at the forefront of porter welfare.
We were able to send a crew of 20 people, consisting of a mix of guides, porters, and cooks. Our crew spent three days on Mt. Kilimanjaro, covering the Shira and Machame camps, and collected a total of 100 kg (220 lbs.) of trash.
Beyond the clean-up, this endeavour had a variety of additional positive outcomes. First, it provided employment (salary) to our crew and those who participated from other companies. This was much-needed after months of not working. Second, porters were trained in the Leave No Trace environmental principles by Sentinel Outdoors Institute. Third, crews were able to practice the new set of standard operating procedures defined by the government to protect themselves and tourists from COVID-19. And lastly, the initiative aimed to publicize Mt. Kilimanjaro as an ongoing desirable destination for tourists.
The Scale and Impact of the Cleanup
Mount Kilimanjaro sees tens of thousands of trekkers every year, and that kind of foot traffic leaves a mark. Recent clean-up campaigns have collected hundreds of kilograms of waste, from discarded water bottles to old gear, across the mountain’s diverse ecological zones. These efforts play a vital role in protecting Kilimanjaro’s fragile environment and setting a standard for sustainable tourism in Tanzania.
Practical Tips for Eco-Friendly Trekkers
You can help keep Kilimanjaro clean by making small choices that reduce your impact. Carry a reusable water bottle instead of relying on disposable plastic. Choose biodegradable soap and toiletries. Most importantly, Leave No Trace! Following this principle ensures the mountain stays wild and beautiful for those who come after you.
There was a great article written about the event, which can be found here. Now, start planning your own trip to Kilimanjaro! Explore our Kilimanjaro Trekking Routes for inspiration.
