Mt. Kenya Porters are usually individuals from the nearby communities surrounding Mt. Kenya. They are hired by tour operators, climbing expeditions and trekkers to help carry food, cooking equipment. And other gear needed during the ascent of Mt. Kenya. They have expansive knowledge about climbing Mt. Kenya. It’s different routes and the challenges. Therefore, they are a really good help and support system during your climbing adventure.
They play a very important role supporting climbers up the mountain as they always go ahead of the trekkers / climbers and set up the campsite, prepare meals so that you reach and just settle in and relax from a day’s hike.
Mt. Kenya Porters responsibilities may include:
Carry equipment like cooking gear and food supplies, camping tents and sleeping bags, and any other stuff required by the hikers during the climb just helping reduce on the load that the hikers carry so that they can focus on the task ahead, summiting the mountain.
Setting up campsites before the trekkers get to the designated camps. The porters go ahead of hikers to set up camp, pitch tents and prepare meals so that when the hikers get there, all they have to do is settle into the camp and relax after a long day of hiking.
Breaking campsites and packing up everything after the hikers have set off on another day of ascending Mt. Kenya.
Experienced porters can also provide guiding services to hikers along the different Mt. Kenya climbing routes as they frequently trek up and down these routes.
They may also provide valuable information about the geography of the mountain as they literally live here.
Most porters are trained in giving first aid assistance to hikers in case of any injuries and altitude sickness symptoms. You are in safe hands, so talk to them often while on the mountain.
Porters also provide assistance during evacuation procedures and emergencies that may arise while on the mountain.
Hiring a climb support crew, that is porters, guides and cooks during your Mt. Kenya adventure is a form of support to the local communities and the bonus is that you get to enjoy your ascent to the summit by focusing mainly on the journey and your surroundings with only your day bag on you back.
Porters only carry a maximum of 15kgs, so make sure your bag that the porter is to carry is not heavier than that. Protect their backs as they will be carrying your luggage the entire time you will be hiking.
