Breaking New Ground: The Journey of Women Guides and Porters on Mount Kilimanjaro

Above the clouds

In the shadow of Mount Kilimanjaro, a group of local women are redefining the boundaries of adventure and empowerment. January 2023 marked a significant turning point with the establishment of Kilimanjaro Wanderwomen Tours, the first all-female guided tour agency in the Kilimanjaro region of Tanzania, and one of the very few in southern Africa.

These remarkable women, skilled in trekking, biking, and cultural experiences, are not just guides and porters. They are trailblazers in a traditionally male-dominated field, embodying strength and resilience. Challenging societal norms and gender stereotypes, they are ascending Africa's highest summit with a mission: to inspire women and girls worldwide.

The initiative is about more than guiding trekkers up the mountain; it's a movement towards gender equality and empowerment. By prioritizing the employment of local women at fair wages, these adventurers are setting a new standard in the Tanzanian tourism industry. Their approach is holistic, ensuring not only fair compensation but also manageable workloads and proper nutrition, factors often overlooked in this sector.

The impact of Kilimanjaro Wanderwomen Tours extends beyond the mountain trails. In Tanzania, where women face systemic challenges due to traditional and legal constraints, this venture is a beacon of hope. It's an opportunity for women to step out of predetermined roles and redefine their potential.

Ekeney, a 31-year-old local and the senior guide, is a testament to this change. Growing up in Machame village at the foot of Kilimanjaro, Ekeney's journey wasn't easy. Facing societal expectations and limited opportunities, she carved her own path, first as a porter and then as a certified mountain guide. Her story reflects the resilience and determination of women who dare to dream big.

These women are not just climbing a mountain; they are climbing social ladders, creating avenues for economic independence and societal change. Their message is clear: women are capable of achieving great heights, both literally and figuratively.

The founding of Kilimanjaro Wanderwomen Tours is more than an entrepreneurial success; it's a symbol of hope and progress. It's a story of women taking charge, not only of their destinies but also of the narrative that surrounds them. As they ascend Kilimanjaro, they carry with them the aspirations of countless women, proving that with determination and support, no peak is too high to reach.