We had an excellent time! William, our head guide, was amazing!! The porters were extremely helpful. Every time you turned around they were there to help you with the pack, tent or warm water.

I felt safe and cared for. Thank you for the great adventure!  I will recommend Thomson to anyone due to the team’s professionalism, customer service and concern for our safety.

Corie & Donald S.
Kilimanjaro Western Approach Trek, February 2013

Trekking across the Shira Plateau

Summit of Mount Kilimanjaro!

On safari in northern Tanzania

Kicking back in Zanzibar

My three week African adventure with Thomson Safaris delivered on every level…an inspiring and invigorating trek to Uhuru Peak, a wide-eyed sightseeing safari to Tarangire National Park and Ngorongoro Crater and a relaxing and rejuvenating beach escape to Zanzibar.

Thanks to Thomson’s professional guidance, evident every “pole pole” step of the way, it was a trip of a lifetime.   Thomson Safaris is a professionally run tour operator that places great emphasis on trekker safety…which I appreciated, particularly at 19,340.’

Mitch W.
Kilimanjaro Western Approach Route & Safari with Zanzibar extension, September 2012

The most important reason that I chose Thomson Safaris for my Kilimanjaro trek was that everyone I spoke with, and everything I read about Thomson, indicated that Thomson Safaris was a first-class organization. Based upon my experience, I also agree with that assessment. Everyone, on both the Kili climb and safari, was so friendly; the food was incredible; the attention to detail was amazing; and the hospitality was humbling. Without exception, everyone, all of the guides, porters, cooks, waiters, campsite managers, were awesome.

However, I’d still like to single out three gentlemen for special commendation. First, Kileo, our guide for the Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti was amazing. His knowledge of the animals and the area, coupled with his inexhaustible patience in answering all of our questions, made for a wonderful trip. We were as giddy as school kids on a field trip, and Kileo was professional, yet personable, funny, tolerant, and just a really sweet guy. Because of Kileo, the safari was truly a memorable experience.

Secondly, and on a more somber note, I cannot say enough complimentary things about Onestphory and Liberate, the Head Guide and Assistant Guide on my Kili climb. As you are aware, I had to turn around on the mountain due to altitude sickness (or, maybe a Diamox overdose???). Regardless as to the reason, Onest and Liberate provided me with such extraordinary care and compassion, patience and persistence, both on the second day of the climb (during which I was very sick) and on the third day during which I hiked out. Liberate accompanied me on that third day and he literally pulled me through sections when the terrain was too steep or rocky. I really cannot say enough about how wonderfully these two gentlemen cared for and treated me, and their concern for my safety. I felt extremely grateful and blessed that I was in their care. It was indeed an honor and a privilege to be in their company.

Despite getting sick, my trek was still a terrific and amazing experience. So, for all the reasons mentioned above, I wouldn’t think of choosing any other company to trek with as I plan for another climb on Kilimanjaro. Thank you, to everyone, for being such a wonderful company.

Terry S.
Kilimanjaro Western Approach Route & Safari, September 2012

We had a great experience with Thomson! We can’t say enough about how professional the porters were, how organized, how caring, what great cooks they were, and how willing they were to share local information about their culture, food and cooking.

As a dietitian, I was particularly interested in the food. They allowed me to go into the cooking tent one night and watch them prepare dinner. As I work in a kitchen every day, this was particularly special for me.

Brent and I felt the affects of the mountain pretty early in the trip, so our guides, Prosper, James and Calvin were always checking on us. We eventually made it to the summit, and Brent proposed there! Thanks to Prosper and James who took the extra time with us to make sure we got to the top!

Brent and I were married on March 10th! Kili & Thomson will always have a special place in our hearts.

Casside & Brent R.
Kilimanjaro Western Approach Route, January 2012

The quality of the Thomson guides made this a most memorable trekking experience. Godlove, William and Wilfred went beyond the call of duty. They made it their mission to make sure that everyone was safe and enjoyed the trekking experience. Our well-being was their top priority.

We were checked for symptoms of altitude sickness and objective measures, such as heart rate and oxygen saturation, were recorded every evening. I felt reassured with the emergency medical equipment available during the trek.

Prosper and Godlove sang songs during the trek. Godlove took pictures and videos that are priceless; in particular when I was reading a letter from my 5 year old granddaughter at Uhuru peak.

Thomson exceeded my expectations  - especially the quality of their tents and the variety and quality of the food we ate. I should know. I am from New Orleans!

Jayashree R.
Kilimanjaro Western Approach Route, February 2012

I have climbed Kili twice with Thomson.  All of the aspects of the climb with Thomson were excellent just as they had been on my first trip.  The most important part of climbing with Thomson was the part we never used: the emergency equipment and the training the staff has in case of an emergency. One guide carried emergency equipment all the way to the summit with us.  That is what made climbing with Thomson an easy choice for us.

Scott O.
Kilimanjaro Western Approach Route, February 2012

This was Scott’s second time trekking with Thomson; his first trek was in 2009.

I have worked with guides in many countries so I have a sound basis to state that Thomson’s guides are the best. I reiterate my special appreciation of the Kilimanjaro trek guides. They operate in a most difficult environment, yet were consistently upbeat, helpful and encouraging to all of the trekkers.

First and most importantly, they were always genuinely concerned for our health and well being, this was evidenced by their regular checks on us while on the trek. They kept careful track that our water consumption was sufficient.

Second, they were all friendly and easy to talk (or in my case, also sing) with. They always consulted the group to ask how we felt about the schedule. For example, should we start at a certain time; stop for lunch now or push on; how should we plan dinner in relation to the geophysics lecture, as well as many other examples.

Third, the evening briefing about the next day’s agenda was well done, full of information and set clear expectations. We always knew what to expect the next day especially concerning the clothing we needed to wear.

Fourth, the overall organization was outstanding. Having been in command before, I recognize the skills necessary to make all the arrangements come off flawlessly. Camp was always set-up and broken down as expected. Meals, snacks and tea were always on time.

Fifth, it is important to commend the kitchen staff for an outstanding job. How in the world the cook produced the meals he did – high on the mountain with the limited equipment available –  is amazing.

Sixth, overall organizational performance was magnificent. By this I mean being met initially at the airport to all the connections in between, including leaving at the airport. Vehicle drivers were all excellent. Our liaison in the US did a fine job supplying information and responding to inquiries.

Let me finish with a repetition of the outstanding job the guides did, without their superior performance all else would have been for naught.

Fred B.
Kilimanjaro Western Approach Route & Safari with The MIT Alumni Travel Program, February 2012

The trip is one we will absolutely not forget. It was fantastic in every way. We can only say great things about all the people that touched us on behalf of Thomson Safaris.

As the trip progressed, I became more and more aware of the logistics involved with moving a family throughout Tanzania.  I can honestly say that the Thomson Safari staff pulled it off without a hitch, they were available at every point, every transition was smooth and we were able to completely enjoy the experience without worrying about all the travel details.

As we spoke to people traveling with other travel companies, it became apparent that Thomson provides a superior service. Our guides, accommodations and our meals were far superior.

Janet S.
Kilimanjaro Umbwe Route & Safari, January 2012

Amazing! I can’t believe I did it and I couldn’t have done it without the help of the Thomson crew.  They provided outstanding service and dedication to ensure we got up the mountain safely and successfully.

Wilfred led a great team that was always smiling and encouraged us every step of the way! The guides took time to help each of us individually during our low points to ensure we made it! I will be recommending Thomson and Wilfred to anyone I know that wants to embark on this incredible journey!

Christina S.
Kilimanjaro Western Approach Route and Safari, August 2011

It was a totally amazing experience!  Thanks for the help in coordinating and providing us with all the trip details and guidance. We feel so fortunate to have had this experience and know that we got our money’s worth by choosing Thomson.

Talking with the staff and learning a little Swahili was a real trip highlight.  I was blown away by the kindness and diligence exhibited by each of the guides, waiters, and porters on our journey to the top of the mountain.  Besides a safe summit, it was obvious during the hike that customer service is Thomson’s number one goal.

At first we were all surprised by the amount of support crew (38) traveling for just our group of eight climbers.  Then, after seeing just how much went into setting up camp and getting us to each site, it was obvious that this was an immensely coordinated production.  With that much support and comfort there was no question that we were getting to the top!

It was a real surprise to see so much wildlife at Ndarakwai Camp [before the trek].  What they’ve done and are currently doing there is awesome. We were especially impressed with our walking guide who wouldn’t give up until we had seen some elephants up close.

We had such an amazing vacation and feel so satisfied to have made it to the top!  Thanks so much again for your help and for the great experience that Tanzania and Thomson provided!

Dave & Amy M.
Kilimanjaro Western Approach Route, July 2011

It really was a once in a lifetime experience and I am so glad I did it and even happier I did it with Thomson.  Our guides, porters and the whole Thomson staff made this trip amazing!

There was not one moment where I felt nervous, unsafe or unsure that our whole group would make it to the top.  I really do attribute our successful summit to the amazing guides we had.  They were so attentive to us and were constantly motivating us on our hike.  The guides, porters, cooks and waiters were always so upbeat and friendly that even when some of us felt extremely sick and tired we stayed in good spirits throughout the trip.

Thank you so much for helping us with planning this trip and for answering my unending list of questions.  This was the best trip I have ever taken and I have to thank the whole Thomson staff for that.  I plan on going one of your safaris in the future and have already recommended Thomson to family and friends who want to hike Kilimanjaro.

Kara T.
Kilimanjaro Western Approach Route, July 2011

Everyone on the trek, safari and on transfers were outstanding.  They surpassed my expectations on friendliness and devotion.  Since I was a single woman traveling alone it was important for me to feel safe.  I always did!  I always felt protected.  My safety was a priority for all guides and my porters!  No one from Thomson Safaris was average – everyone went beyond what I expected.

Bea P.
Kilimanjaro Western Approach Route & Safari, Feb 2011

The entire trip was one big highlight film; it was an amazing adventure that I will never forget.

I felt we were in good hands from a health perspective. Every night our guides would check our oxygen level and heart rate, and were always making sure we were feeling OK. It was reassuring to know they were concerned about our health and not afraid to turn us back if necessary. I saw some people from other groups being carried down the mountain in very rough shape, I can only guess it was from altitude sickness and ascending too fast – something our guides would not allow to happen.

The porters should also be recognized for their tremendous effort. They all worked very hard to make sure we were comfortable, and they always had smiles on their faces. I feel like I made a lot of new friends on this trip. I also could tell that Thomson took care of them; from what I could see they were better equipped than porters from other organizations. I was glad I chose Thomson when I saw that.

I have to tell you the spaghetti at 15,000 feet was the best spaghetti I ever had in my life. I think I ate three plates. Seriously, the food was fantastic throughout the entire trek.

Overall it was a tremendous experience and I’m glad I chose Thomson Safaris. The trip was well-organized and  the Tanzanian guides and porters and cooks and waiters were all fantastic!

Dave B.
Kilimanjaro Western Approach Route, January 2011

We all agreed that we paid for first-class service and we received first-class service.  I would go with Thomson Safaris again to anywhere.  Your crew did an outstanding job. We could just marvel how they managed to keep up their happy spirits despite the heavy work.  Also the food and service was amazing under such harsh conditions.

It was reassuring to see that safety was always at the forefront.  Also Thomson’s concern about the welfare of the porters made a big difference in choosing this company.

Our tents, camp, food and staff appeared to be far superior to the other mountain trekkers’ which we encountered on the way.  Our guides were the best.  We always felt well-informed about the upcoming day and when needed they were willing to give up their own comfort just to make sure we are all well taken care of.  This is beyond the call of duty.

Helga A.
Western Approach Route, February 2010

Read more about Helga’s record-setting trek on our blog

Find out why Helga set her sights on conquering Mount Kilimanjaro and details about the trek in her article, Kilimanjaro Adventure – Why Climb the Mountain?

I always felt incredibly safe and cared for.  The guides were always focused on our safety and health and  made us feel like we had nothing to worry about.

Aubrie F.
Kilimanjaro Western Approach Route & Safari, October 2010

We had a great trip which exceeded our expectations on all counts. It was the best planned trip we’ve ever been on and the guides showed an amazing knowledge and wonderful attitude at all times.

Similarly all the support staff were extraordinary and truly focused on making the trip the best for us all. Above all, they were attentive to how we were feeling and the head guide was keen on safety of the group. It truly was a trip of a lifetime.

Munira M.
Kilimanjaro Western Approach Route, July 2010

(This is Munira’s second time traveling with Thomson. Her first trip, three years ago,  was a safari through northern Tanzania.)