The tourism sector worldwide has experienced one of the hardest blows and we are certainly feeling it here at Pristine Trails. In September 2019, we hosted 21 trips – safaris, Kilimanjaro treks and beach holidays – of 74 total visitors. This year, while we are seeing nowhere near these numbers, September did bring some light as we started off the month with our first Kilimanjaro climb since March! We will end the month having two climbs and two safaris, one of which is a honeymoon. While these few trips are just a fraction of our typical business, we are so grateful to see that tourists are slowly but surely returning to Tanzania.
COVID-19 FUNDRAISER RESULTS
On behalf of the entire Pristine Trails team, we want to thank you all so much for reaching out to us, giving us words of encouragement and donating to the fundraiser we launched in June to support our staff. The over $12,000 that was raised has been distributed to over 100 Pristine staff members, who are all so grateful for your assistance. Here are just a couple of messages (translated) we received:
“Thank you to the management for organizing this fundraiser to enable us [staff] and helping to cushion the impact of the pandemic on our lives.”
Yahaya, Kilimanjaro Guide
“My mom is sick and tomorrow I have to take her to the hospital. With this [money] you have saved me in a way that you don’t even know. But God bless you for giving these funds.”
Sadati, Safari Guide
“I would like to give thanks to the Pristine management for facilitating this fundraiser and I am thankful for what I have received. It is truly a remarkable initiative worth congratulating.”
Juma, Kilimanjaro Guide
A roster of names and the amounts donated was also shared with Kilimanjaro Porters Assistance Project for them to audit and ensure everyone on the list received their fair share.
