For the dedicated Kilimanjaro guides leading Thomson treks, becoming a head guide is the result of years of hard work, training, and genuine passion. We sat down with several team members who began their careers at Thomson to learn about their journeys from porters to head guides.
After completing formal schooling and embarking on countless treks, these guides gained the vital experience and leadership skills essential for success on the mountain. They credit Thomson with playing a pivotal role in their journeys—providing education, mentorship, and opportunities for growth.
Their passion is unmistakable, and as a trekker, you feel it too—in their expertise and encouragement during tough climbs, in their pride at every sunrise, and in the way they make your journey feel like part of something greater.
MSAFIRI MUNNA
What were your first roles with Thomson?
Before I became a head guide for Thomson, I started working as a porter in 1998, then a waiter, camp manager, cook, and then a guide.
What made you want to be a guide?
I was in love with mountains since I was very young. My uncle was one of the first guides working for Thomson, so when I completed my education, I started climbing the mountain with my uncle. He was a great mentor for me and through his teachings, I fell in love with mountains and was able to make my dream of becoming a guide a reality.
How did Thomson help you become a guide?
Thomson helped me a lot to become a guide as they offered me a huge support to the some of the courses, including Wilderness First Responder (WFR), National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS), the Kilimanjaro National Park Authority (KINAPA), rock climbing, English, Human Behavior, and my guiding license.
What is your favorite part about being a guide?
My favorite part of being a guide on Kilimanjaro is to see the smiling faces from my guests all the way from the airport to the top of Kilimanjaro. I am proud of the great feedback they give after the trek. Safety is my first priority as a guide, so all the time what I like to see, is my clients’ safety!
What do you love most about Kilimanjaro?
Mount Kilimanjaro is very special to me. The different climate zones make it spectacular every time, from the rainforest to the summit – Uhuru Peak. Kilimanjaro is a beautiful mountain.
What are your future goals?
Climbing mountains is what I like the most so one of my huge dreams and goals is to climb the Seven Summits. I have summited two of them already, including Aconcagua in Argentina, which is the highest peak in South America.
Secondly, I would like to learn more and more to become a great mountain guide ever.
Anything else you’d like us to know?
Yes, Thomson is the best tour company on Mount Kilimanjaro with a great reputation. They have the best team working for them, including guides and porters.
“Msafiri was incredible. His attention to detail was impressive. He was friendly and personable, and my entire family felt safe with his guidance and direction. It was also apparent that the entire staff under his direction respected his leadership”
– Joseph Altman, Hopkinton MA
PENDAEL LAUWO
How did you get your start at Thomson?
I started as a porter until I was promoted to a personal porter/toilet crew and a camp setter. In 2006 I went for Kilimanjaro guiding training.
What made you want to be a guide?
The reason I wanted to be guide is because of family history. My grandfather Yohana Lauwo was the first guide to lead guests on Mount Kilimanjaro, so I had a lot of brothers who were guides.
What was the process of becoming a guide, and how long did it take?
It took me two years to complete guide studies and training. Working as a porter was very important for me because I was able to learn a lot about mountain before going to attend the guiding courses.
How did Thomson help you become a guide?
Working for Thomson helped me with my guiding studies and schooling. Thomson has also supported me with more trainings such as, environmental awareness and safety trainings that have added the most value to my career as a guide.
What is your favorite part about being a guide?
My favorite part is getting to know the guests, I especially like watching them reach their goals at the summit and enjoy the views of the glaciers.
What makes Kilimanjaro special to you?
I love Mount Kilimanjaro because it is the most safe and accessible mountain in the world and anybody can climb it. Kilimanjaro is my second home, and I love meeting different people from different nations.
“Pendael was an outstanding guide—knowledgeable, supportive, and always encouraging throughout the Kilimanjaro trek. His calm leadership and positive energy made the journey unforgettable and truly rewarding. He was fun to talk to, easy to trust, and clearly a respected leader among the team.”
– Charles Fitzpatrick, Boston MA
WILLIAM BWENJE
What was your first job with Thomson?
I began my journey with Thomson Safaris in 1998 as mountain porter.
What made you want to be a guide?
My passion for Mount Kilimanjaro and its breathtaking views inspired me to become a guide. I never tire of the mountain’s scenery and wanted to share this experience with others.
What was the process of becoming a guide, and how long did it take?
I attended and became certified at the College of Mweka Wildlife in 2003. But after that I continued to work as a personal porter for two years until 2005 when I was promoted to be an assistant guide.
After starting as an assistant guide, I dedicated myself to learning and gaining experience on the mountain. Over the years, I worked diligently to enhance my skills and knowledge. In 2012, after nine years of commitment and training, I was promoted to be a head guide.
How did Thomson help you become a guide?
Thomson provided me with opportunities to grow within the company, starting from the assistant guide position. They supported my professional development, allowing me to gain the necessary experience and certifications to advance to head guide.
What is your favorite part about being a guide?
My favorite aspect of being a guide is witnessing the awe and accomplishment on trekkers’ faces when they experience the beauty of Mount Kilimanjaro. Sharing the mountain’s wonders and helping others achieve their goals is incredibly rewarding.
What makes Kilimanjaro special to you?
Kilimanjaro’s ever-changing landscapes and majestic views captivate me. Each climb offers a new perspective, and I never grow tired of its beauty. The mountain’s challenges and rewards make it a special place for me.
What are you most proud of?
Working with Thomson has been a fulfilling journey. The company’s commitment to ethical practices and support for local communities aligns with my values. Kilimanjaro is not just a mountain; it’s a symbol of perseverance and beauty. Guiding trekkers to its summit and sharing in their success is a privilege I cherish.
“William is an amazing head guide, I cannot recommend him enough. He executed a successful summit and kept us safe along the way. He’s so enjoyable to talk to and always open to answering any questions.”
– James Quigley, Ocean View DE
JAMES UPANGA
How did you get your start at Thomson?
I started climbing the mountain in 2006 with Thomson as a porter, then I worked my way up to become a waiter, and then an assistant guide. I was promoted to be a head guide in 2014 and since then I have never looked back.
What made you want to be a guide?
When I was a porter, I really admired the guides – the bond they built with the guests and how well-respected they were by everyone. I knew I could do it if I had the chance.
How did Thomson help you become a guide?
Thomson has helped me a lot on my journey to be a guide, which took seven years. They sponsored me to go on guides training, and I was one of the top 5 best students in our intake.
Thomson got me a sponsor, and I was able to go to college where I earned my degree in tourism and wildlife. I have much respect for Thomson and the mountain itself.
What is your favorite part about being a guide?
My favorite part is sharing my passion for our local culture and history, fostering my knowledge with visitors, and creating memorable experiences for them. I have guided many people to the Roof of Africa including some famous Hollywood stars.
What makes Kilimanjaro special to you?
I love Kilimanjaro not only because of its beauty, but through my work on the mountain, I’ve been exposed to different cultures all over the world. Kilimanjaro is my home, and by doing this I have built a home for my family, and I’m able to pay school fees for my children.
“James was absolutely perfect! He runs a very professional group. We were so happy with him and the entire team. We are so thankful for James! He’s an exceptional, solid leader.”
– Michel Stone, Spartanburg SC