Your mountain porters are an essential part of every trek up Mount Kilimanjaro, not just because of the intense physical work they do in carrying all of the equipment and climber luggage, but because of the passion and spirit they bring to your trek, offering constant encouragement and smiles.
Pristine Trails values the porters and the entire mountain crew, and is committed to their fair treatment, through our partnership with the Kilimanjaro Porters Assistance Project (KPAP). KPAP is a locally registered NGO, working underneath the International Mountain Explorers Connection (IMEC) Partner for Responsible Travel, a U.S. based organization.
To maintain our partnership, we must adhere to the following:
Each Pristine Trails climb is monitored by a third-party KPAP porter who ensures our adherence to each and every requirement. Our partnership is completely voluntary, illustrating our commitment to the local workers who are integral to your experience.
If you would like to support the work of KPAP beyond booking your trek with Pristine Trails, you may donate directly here.
Pristine Trails has done away with one-use plastic on all mountain, safari and day trips. Our mountain crews have undergone Leave No Trace training to combat issues of littering and waste on trekking trips and frequently participate in Kilimanjaro cleaning efforts organized by Leave No Trace and KPAP. It is important to us to participate in these initiatives.
Plastic bottles of water and other drinks are never used. These decisions are in line with our commitment to preserve our environment by reducing unnecessary waste. The Tanzania Government has also banned one-use plastic bags in the country.
Pristine Trails has sent large crews of guides and porters during the wildfires of 2020 and 2022 to participate in the firefighting efforts in protection of our beloved mountain. We frequently communicate with the tour operator association and important tourism players on fire prevention strategies.
Pristine Trails partners with Knock Foundation, a registered non-profit in both the U.S. and Tanzania, providing educational opportunities to deserving students in Tanzania. Knock Foundation grants educational scholarships and runs after-school enrichment programs at the primary school level.
We have been long-term partners with Knock Foundation, donating trips to charity auctions, arranging school visits for our travelers, and offering mentoring to some of the program’s beneficiaries.
If you would like to directly support the work of Knock Foundation, you may donate directly here.
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