Proper Porter Treatment

How You can Help Ensure Proper Treatment

1. Porters are provided proper clothing and equipment:
Porters need adequate footwear, socks, waterproof jackets and pants, gloves, hats, sunglasses, etc. that are appropriate for their destination. Clothing and gear for loan is available at the International Mountain Explorers Connection (formerly Himalayan Explorers Connection) offices in Nepal and Africa, Porters’ Progress offices in Nepal, and Inka Porter Project offices in Peru (beginning in August 2003).

2. Porters are provided proper shelter and sleeping arrangements: Where no shelter is available porters need proper sleeping arrangements that include tents and sleeping bags (or a sleeping pad and blanket). Porters have suffered exposure from sleeping in caves.

3. Porters are provided with proper food, cooking equipment and water: Porters should be provided with proper food and water. If they are required to purchase their own food, wages should be increased accordingly.

4. Sick or injured porters are properly cared for: Porters deserve the same standard of treatment, care and rescue as their clients. Sick or injured porters need to be sent back with someone who speaks their language and understands the problem. If available, porters should also be provided insurance.

5. Porters are paid a fair wage for their work and location and given the tips their clients intend for them:
Wages vary in each country with trek location, length of trek and weight of load. Approximate wages (after food, shelter and gear expenses are met) are listed below. Trekkers are encouraged to inquire at local agencies to learn about current recommended tips and wages.
Africa: $5/day for the Machame route and $6/day for the Marangu route.

6. Porters are carrying loads that don’t exceed their physical ability or legal limits:
In Tanzania, loads should not exceed 25 kilos (including personal gear), the legal limit.

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