Verified Company
Climbing Kilimanjaro was one of the best experiences of my life and I simply couldn’t have done it without Zanzi Trekking. They went above and beyond in all aspects and made sure we were as comfortable as possible whilst respecting our personal space. Our guides, Issack and Sagochi, were incredible. They were so friendly and easy to get along with and gave us support both when asked for and when we didn’t realise we needed it. The chef and the porters were also incredibly hardworking and friendly and we were in awe of all the weight they carried each day.
Our experience started when we booked about 6 months in advance and the company sent us lots of useful resources like packing lists and available add-ons. Closer to the time we had a fair few logistical questions and Zanzi set up a WhatsApp group with a representative, which was really helpful. Through this we were able to get advice on an appropriate amount to tip the guides and porters and also book an airport transfer through them for an additional charge.
On the first day, the team picked us up from our hostel in Arusha and also dropped us off after for no extra charge which was a nice touch. On the way to the mountain they also happily stopped a few times so we could buy some last minute pieces of equipment we’d forgotten.
Each day one of the guides started the hike with us whilst the other organised the porters and caught us up later. The porters then overtook us so that the camp was set up ready for our arrival, which was such a luxury. The camp consisted of tents for us, a private mess tent (where we ate our meals), a toilet and the porters tent. We went for the optional ‘toilet engineer’ package which gives you a private toilet. This is a must have as the public toilets at each camp are a state.
We felt in very safe hands with Issack and Sagochi. They were very knowledgeable about the mountain, the routes we were taking and the wildlife and plants on the mountain. Every evening, one of the guides would monitor our blood oxygen and brief us on the next day so that we knew what to expect. One of the porters would then wake us up on time every morning and provide us with some hot water to wash with. They would also fill up our bottles with fresh water and bring us food to the mess tent.
Each day’s hike was well balanced and within our comfort zone with the exception of summit day. The guides were fun to talk to and made the day go a lot quicker when it did get tough. On summit day we simply couldn’t have made it without Issack and Sagochi. They were always positive and kept moral as high as possible. They could tell me and another member of our group were seriously suffering and were as accommodating as possible. They took our day packs for us, held things whilst we took a drink and listened to all our requests. I can’t convey enough how grateful I am for them and how amazing it was to meet them.
The food on the trip was very good considering it was made on a mountain and the portion sizes were enormous. We never went hungry and enjoyed every meal even when we lost our appetite due to the altitude.
Overall Zanzi Trekking is a great company and I wouldn’t have changed any of our experience. They made our dream come true and if I ever find myself in Tanzania again I’ll be reaching out.
Reply from Zanzi Trekking and Safaris
Dear Tommy,
Thank you very much for this amazing and detailed review :-).
We’re truly happy to hear that climbing Mount Kilimanjaro became one of the best experiences of your life and that our team could be part of it.
Issack and Sagochi will be very proud to read your kind words. Their experience, positive spirit, and dedication on the mountain make a huge difference, especially on challenging days like the summit push. Your appreciation for our chef and hardworking porters also means a lot - they are the backbone of every successful trek.
We’re also glad that the preparation, communication, and small logistical details helped make the journey smooth from the first booking all the way through the climb.
Congratulations again on reaching the summit, and thank you for trusting Zanzi Trekking with your adventure. We would be very happy to welcome you again in Tanzania one day! 🏔️🌍
Much love,
Your Zanzi family
Thank you very much for this amazing and detailed review :-).
We’re truly happy to hear that climbing Mount Kilimanjaro became one of the best experiences of your life and that our team could be part of it.
Issack and Sagochi will be very proud to read your kind words. Their experience, positive spirit, and dedication on the mountain make a huge difference, especially on challenging days like the summit push. Your appreciation for our chef and hardworking porters also means a lot - they are the backbone of every successful trek.
We’re also glad that the preparation, communication, and small logistical details helped make the journey smooth from the first booking all the way through the climb.
Congratulations again on reaching the summit, and thank you for trusting Zanzi Trekking with your adventure. We would be very happy to welcome you again in Tanzania one day! 🏔️🌍
Much love,
Your Zanzi family
