MAJESTIC KILIMANJARO - Articles

Porters' Scholarship Program Launched Today!

Mon, 23 Mar 2015 07:56:37 GMT

It is very important that we work to improve conditions in local communities within Tanzania. So this year as well as our continued support of the Paradiso Orphanage, we created the Majestic Kilimanjaro Scholarship Program, Yeah!

This program enables selected porters to attend three (3) month English language courses, driving school, wilderness first aid training, nine (9) month guiding school, hospitality school or mechanics training. We also provide a monthly stipend/allowance so these men can continue to look after their families during the training.

Further education of this nature is well out of the reach of most porters. A nine month guide or hospitality course costs between 500,000 to 800,000 Tanzania Schillings (TSch) a day, and yet porters earn from 11,000 to 15,000 TSch a day. Apart from the cost of the courses, there is also the challenge of continuing to support their families while studying instead of working. Our scholarship fund, which has been formed from profits from the climbs and safaris we conduct through Majestic Kilimanjaro, looks after all that so that the recipients can just focus on their studies.

Scholarship Program Launch
Today we were very excited to launch the program with Porters - James Kahumba, Christian Lomnyaki, Amani Ernest and Silvano Clemence (who has been working with us as a cook for the last two years), starting their three months English course at the YMCA Vocational Training Centre. This will be followed by a one month driving course.
These 4 men will attend class every day for 45mins and then be expected to complete homework. English language skills and a drivers license will allow these men to take up opportunities that weren't open to them before. On their successful completion they will be able to choose whether to attend either a nine months guide, hospitality or mechanics training.

Here they are on their first day - class started at 7.30am so it was bright and early!

23/3/2015 First English class. From Left: Teacher Mlay Moshi and Students - James Kahumba, Christian Lamnyaki, Silvano Clemence and Amani Ernest

Working hard and having fun!

Looking pretty happy after their first class!

We are very excited and wish James, Christian, Amani and Silvano every success!

A Great Day on Safari for the Children

Sun, 07 Dec 2014 01:13:21 GMT

Majestic Kilimanjaro and friend of the Paradiso Orphanage, Ruth Sisk from Ireland, had the pleasure this month of sponsoring the 24 children from the orphanage on a one day safari to Lake Manyara!
Lake Manyara is a small park ideal for a day trip and kids were happy to spot some of the park highlight like baboons, impalas, zebras, wildebeest, giraffe, elephants, water birds, ostrich and other birds. It was a good day

Big smiles all round for their lunch boxes!

Thumbs up for a great day!

Sheetal, Nikhil & Gayathri's Majestic Journey

Fri, 13 Dec 2013 23:34:03 GMT

On December 9 2013, three friends Sheetal, Gayathri & Nikhil arrived in Arusha, Tanzania to start their Kilimanjaro adventure!

Day 1 - The Climb Begins

Their 7 day Machame Route climb started at the Machame Gate. The weather was good and all were happy.

Day 2

Sheetal, Gayathri and Nikhil were doing well this morning and on the way to Shira cave today. It was raining but all was good so far!

Day 3

Today the group headed to Baranco Camp via the Lava Tower. They were doing fine despite of the rain they had been getting everyday.

DAY 4

In the morning of Day 4, Sheetal, Gayathri and Nikhil scaled and scrambled up Baranco Wall. They then made their way to Barafu instead of Karanga camp. Since the group was taking a slow pace Lead Guide Tumaini and the group decided that they would do day time summit the next morning.

Day 5 - Summit Day - They Did It!

Sheetal, Gayathri & Nikhil started making their way to the summit at 05:50. Though tired, all three climbers kept walking - pole, pole - slowly, slowly as the guides always say. It snowed for them - in Africa! There is nothing like a rest and a warm cup of tea to keep you going!

Despite the rain they had every day and snow, Sheetal and Nikhil summited to the Roof of Africa! It took 9 hrs of determination to make it to the top. Gaya had to turn back just before Stella Point - it takes courage to get this far and wisdom to listen to your guide, and your body, and turn back if necessary.

Everyone is doing well and will spend the next two days trekking back.

Congratulations to Sheetal, Nikhil and Gaya, you can all be very proud of your achievement! Welcome to the select group of people who have been brave enough to go on this journey.

Post your comment to Congratulate Sheetal, Nikhil and Gayathri and we'll ensure they see them

It doesn't take a whole lot to make these children smile!

Mon, 30 Sep 2013 08:26:30 GMT

We use profits from our Majestic Kilimanjaro business to provide support to New Paradiso Orphanage. Clients who choose to use our services know that their money is staying in Tanzania and is being put to good use.

In September our Managing Director, Tumaini Sandi, suggested we purchase supplies such as 50 kg of Rice, 10 litres of Cooking oil, 120 Eggs, 10 kg of Sugar, tea bags, washing powder, soap for shower, tooth paste etc to help out the household. He then went shopping in Arusha town to purchase everything.

Tumaini Sandi - so many choices in soap bars!

The beautiful children (most of whom lost their parents due to HIV/ AIDS) with carers Babu and Bibi are shown here happily receiving our gift. As you can see the eggs are taking pride of place.

Front left: Tumaini; Back left: Bibi (Grandmother); Front right: Babu (Grandfather); Centre: Most of the children who live in New Paradiso.

Their honest sweet smiles can not be compared to anything else in life.

Front Left: Deo - Tumaini's friend who helped with the shopping and transportation.

News: Linh & Gareth Successfully Summited Kilimanjaro

Fri, 20 Sep 2013 05:22:02 GMT

Posted by Tumaini Sandi, Managing Director and lead Guide:

"Yesterday after lunch at Karanga Camp we decided to go to Barafu (base camp) and start the summit at Midnight.

We have now arrived to the Peak of Kilimanjaro 5,895m.

Both climber are happy and doing well.
We made it at 7.36am after we left the camp at 12.20am."

A huge congratulations to Linh and Gareth for successfully summiting Kilimanjaro. A big thank you to Tumaini and our entire team for safely leading the expedition!

Send your message of congratulations and we will ensure they receive them.

Sunrise on Kilimanjaro.

Linh and Gareth at Uruhu Peak, Kilimanjaro - the highest point in Africa.

View of the glaciers from the top of Africa!

Day 7 Return to Arusha

Linh & Gareth successfully completed their climb on 21st September 2013 and returned to their accommodation in Arusha.

Their adventure will continue with their Safari led again by Tumaini Sandi.

Thank you Linh & Gareth for choosing Majestic Kilimanjaro to lead you on this once in a lifetime adventure - we hope it has been a trip you will always remember.

News: Climbers Linh & Gareth Day 5

Thu, 19 Sep 2013 10:00:48 GMT

Both climbers are continuing well with the climb. It's 11:30am and they are at Karanga Camp for now.

A message from Linh & Gareth to family & friends: "We are having a great time, and thanks every one for the messages keep them coming"

The team scaling Great Barranco Wall. This is the only part of the trek where scrambling (using hands) is needed in order to ascend the wall.

Scaling the Great Barranco Wall

Gareth & Linh still smiling after scrambling to the top of Barranco Wall!

The Everlasting Flower plant dominates the alpine desert on Kilimanjaro.

About to have a well earned rest at Karanga Camp.

Keep your messages coming and we will forward them to Linh & Gareth.

News: Climbers Linh & Gareth Day 4

Wed, 18 Sep 2013 10:42:50 GMT

Linh & Gareth are on day four of their climb heading to Baranco Camp. Both climbers are feeling good despite being a little bit tired.

Leave a message for Linh & Gareth in the comments and we will make sure they receive it.

News: Climbers Linh & Gareth Day 2 & 3

Wed, 18 Sep 2013 00:04:27 GMT

Day 2

It was a very hot and dusty climb but all was good as Linh and Gareth made their way to Shira 1 camp at 3,500m for their overnight stay.

Tumaini, Linh & Gareth

There are many mounds of rocks that have been built by trekkers along the route. Some believe that adding a rock brings good luck for the summit.

Sunset view of Kilimanjaro

Day 3

Linh & Gareth arrived safely at Shira 2 camp. Both climbers are doing well and enjoying the trek.

Write your messages of support and encouragement in the comments and we will forward them to Linh & Gareth.

News: Climbers Linh & Gareth Day 1

Sun, 15 Sep 2013 09:29:57 GMT

Linh & Gareth, packed, ready and excited, left their accommodation in Arusha this morning and set off with the Majestic Kilimanjaro team of 12 staff (1 Lead Guide, 1 Assistant Guide, 1 Cook and 9 Porters) in our bus for the Lemosho Route starting gate.

Send them a message in the comments and we will forward it to them via Tumaini our lead guide.

Enjoying their lunch break on Day 1 of their climb

New Arrivals: Linh & Gareth

Sat, 14 Sep 2013 03:30:59 GMT

Linh & Gareth arrived safely into Arusha and were met by Tumaini Sandi, Managing Director of Majestic Kilimanjaro.

They have had their briefing meeting and are all ready to start their climb tomorrow - 15th September.

News: Climbers Julie & Paul Day 7 - They did it!

Wed, 11 Sep 2013 10:46:45 GMT

Congratulations to both Julie & Paul who summited to the top of Africa, Aruhu Peak Kilimanjaro, this morning at 6.02am having left camp at Midnight (Tanzania time). It was a cold windy night! They are now descending back to Barafu for lunch before proceeding down to the lower camp.

Send your messages of congratulations and we will make sure they receive them.

View on the return trek.

Receiving their certificates at the end of their trek.

Julie & Paul returned safely to their hotel and are now on Safari with their guide Benno.

Congratulations again to you both and thank you for choosing Majestic Kilimanjaro to lead you on this fantastic adventure!

News: Climbers Julie & Paul Day 6

Tue, 10 Sep 2013 11:00:44 GMT

Julie, Paul & the team are at Barufu camp and every one is happy. Paul and Tumaini hiked this morning to 4,976 meters for acclimatization. Julie decided to take a rest at the camp. They are having nice weather again today!

Later tonight they will be setting off for the summit. They will have an early dinner, go to bed for some rest and then rise at 11.30pm and start their summit trek at approximately midnight.

It's an exciting night for them all, please send your messages of encouragement via the comments and we will make sure they receive them.

News: Climbers Julie & Paul Day 5

Mon, 09 Sep 2013 10:47:19 GMT

Julie, Paul and the team started their 5th day's trekking at 08:20am from Barranco Camp are heading to Barafu Camp. They are doing very well and the weather is brilliant too.

Show your support and send Julie & Paul a message via the comments and we will forward it to them.

News: Climbers Julie & Paul Day 4

Sun, 08 Sep 2013 10:29:25 GMT

8th September, 2013

It's 11:30am and Julie & Paul are now at Lava Tower (4,640 metres). They are both doing very well.

They will have lunch here before proceeding to Barranco camp where they will spend the night at 3,940 metres.

They are experiencing nice weather although it's slightly windy.

Write a message and we will send it to Julie and Paul.

News: Climbers Julie & Paul Day 3

Sat, 07 Sep 2013 11:07:39 GMT

Julie & Paul had another great climb to Moir camp and then did a 200meters acclimatization walk up and then back down to the camp. They are both happy and enjoying the classic view...

Write a message for Julie and Paul and we'll make sure they receive it.

News: Climbers - Julie & Paul

Fri, 06 Sep 2013 11:17:05 GMT

Arrival: Julie & Paul arrived in Arusha Tanzania on 4th September 2013 from the United States of America. They will be climbing Mount Kilimanjaro via the 8 day Lemosho Route.

Day 1

5th September 2013: Paul & Julie ready to leave their hotel to start their climb.

It was a nice day in Arusha as Julie, Paul, Tumaini (Managing Director & Head Guide) and the team of 11 staff (Assistant Guide, Cook, & 9 Porters) left on the bus for the Lemosho trail.

Day 2

Another day of great weather on Kilimanjaro as Julie, Paul and the team hike from Forest Camp to Shira 1.
Both Paul & Julie are doing well and enjoying the climb.

Write a comment/message for Julie & Paul and we will forward it to them daily!

Please share the news with your friends.

Above & Beyond - Alysia & Sam Norris

Tue, 27 Aug 2013 06:23:18 GMT

Our search for a climb company began in early 2013 when we decided to tackle Kili.

We started with our favourite travel agent but turned back to the internet when her wholesalers were unable to cater to our preferences for route and number of days or guarantee small group numbers.

Armed with a check list we found Majestic Kilimanjaro. The daunting task of booking it ourselves was made easy being able to talk to the Australian partners who answered all our questions. And when it came time to liaise with Tumaini for the finer details via email we found it just as easy despite being on the other side of the Indian Ocean.

Enjoying a coffee in Arusha, Tanzania

From the moment Tumaini picked us up at ‘Jaro International Airport we knew we had made the right choice. When each of us came down with altitude sickness we trusted his experience and were thankful for his cool, calm manner. Knowing that we were really battling he amended our eight-day trek, abandoning the northern circuit for the more direct route, giving us the best possible chance of reaching the summit without sacrificing necessary acclimatisation.

Walking through the rainforest

For the final summit he led us out of camp at 4am rather than midnight to avoid the worst of the cold night air. The only forfeit was not being at the summit for sunrise but more importantly we made it to the Uhuru Peak, coaxed to the sweet end despite fatigue and exhaustion!

At the Summit - Uruhu Peak, 6th August 2013

If we had attempted this with a big group and large operator we would most likely have failed. Despite our attention to training it was our preparation and, most importantly, the choice of Majestic Kilimanjaro that ensured our success. Tumaini was also an excellent guide on our three-day safari proving very knowledgeable and passionate about his country. As a bonus we not only got an awesome holiday we felt like our money was going to the right people, staying in Tanzania.

About to get back on the bus with the Majestic Kilimanjaro team at the end of a great climb.

Alysia & Sam Norris

You can also read Alysia's TripAdvisor Review here.

Sam Norris is a Journalist with The Maitland Mercury. Read his story of their climb here.

News: Climbers Trish & Una - Day 6

Mon, 28 Jan 2013 09:54:54 GMT

Date: 28/1/13
Posted By Tumaini Sandi, Lead Guide

12:00pm local time
"Una and Trish have completed their climb and they are now enjoying the shower at the hotel. It was a great hike down the mountain."

Mandara Huts - 2700m

Waterfall seen on the return down the mountain

Trish & Una looking happy close to the finish line!

Congratulations Trish & Una and thank you for choosing Majestic Kilimanjaro to lead you on this adventure!

News: Climbers Trish & Una - Day 5

Sun, 27 Jan 2013 11:30:35 GMT

Date: 27/1/2013
Posted by Tumaini Sandi, Lead Guide

11:00am local time
"This morning we went to 4900m, for acclimatization and now we are back at the camp. Both climbers are experiencing some headache and we expect to leave for the summit later tonight if their progress improves.
It's a nice weather here with the blue sky."

1pm local time
"Due to the fact that Trish's condition is not improving, we have decided to descend down to the lower camp - Trish is experiencing a severe headache which is not getting better. It's now 01:00pm and we are going down slowly.

Although Una is good to go to the summit, she has decided to go down as well.

Safety is our number one priority. It does not matter how many mountains you have climbed, sometimes the mountain will just say no and you have to respect that"

6.30pm local time
" We are now at Mandara Hut (2700m) and Trish is now getting better.
We will be spending a night here."

Some of our crew with Trish & Una

Morning acclimatisation walk

Back at camp

Trish & Una - This photo was taken after the decision to return down the mountain

We will update you on Trish & Una's progress as soon as we receive the next report.

News: Climbers Trish & Una - Day 4#2

Sat, 26 Jan 2013 21:32:49 GMT

Date: 26/1/2013
Posted by Tumaini Sandi, Lead Guide
4.28pm local time

"We are now at the base camp and we will not summit tonight but on the 5th night (27/1/13) which will give us another day to acclimatise. Trish is a bit better, and I will keep monitoring her. Una is doing well although she has mild headache which is normal at this altitude."

Write your messages of encouragement in the comments and we will forward them