Personal Porters

Why hire a personal porter?

Hiring a personal porter may not be something you’ve given much thought to, but we’ve found it is something our guests have absolutely loved and appreciated. Personal porters share the weight of your equipment, plus, so much more:

They carry your day pack!

Your day pack can weigh between 10-20 lbs, so this is quite literally a weight off your back, allowing you to focus on putting one foot in front of the other and making it to the roof of Africa.

They offer support!

Everyone can use some encouragement during physical challenges. Porters have trekked these trails countless times and know when to give you an added bit of support to help you stay in the game. It is like having your own personal cheerleader as you make your way up the mountain.

They enrich your experience!

Our guests have loved learning about Tanzanian culture on the mountain from their personal porters. It’s a unique and wonderful bonding experience.

Watch porters and guides cheer on a Thomson guest near the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro.

OUR GUESTS SAY IT BEST

My personal porter Coleman greeted me every morning, and at Crater Camp when my hands were in pain from some sunburn and cold, he even tied my boots and put on my gaiters for me. He was my shadow…always with a fantastic attitude, amazing smile and a terrific sense of humor.

– Anne Dickinson

I summited Kili with my twin boys; we will always remember Henry Ngo, our personal porter. He was kind, helpful, and personable. I had recent back surgery, which he knew about and stuck with me during the entire summit bid to make sure I was safe. I wouldn’t have made it to the summit without his help.

– Donn Tokairin

My personal porter Zak Petro was fantastic. Couldn’t do enough for me. He stayed by my side throughout the entire duration. He did everything from carrying half of my load, to watching me to ensure that I was doing well, to being good company. I was lucky to have him!

– Brad Singer

Should You Hire a Personal Porter on Kilimanjaro?