About Kilimanjaro Experts

The Kilimanjaro Experts are a fairly new company – but one with very experienced people working for it.

My name is Henry Stedman, and I have been writing the bestselling guide book to Kilimanjaro since 2001; David Squire worked as a tour organiser on the mountain for over a decade. While Joshua Ruhimbi, the third director, has been climbing for a similar period and has summited over 250 times, a career that has included leading blind climbers to the summit, no less than three(!) wheelchair expeditions to the top, and also led the first expedition to the top where the couple got married at the summit.

We put this team together because although I liked aspects of many companies, we couldn’t find one company that was ideal. For instance, we may have thought that the guides at one company were amongst the best – but, unfortunately, their treatment of their porters and the wages they paid them weren’t brilliant.

So we have handpicked various guides, cooks etc, many of whom I have climbed with before and have chosen simply because we know how good they are. And by joining us all together in a company that adheres to a strict ethical code, while not overcharging as so many companies do, we believe we’ve created a company that ‘ticks every box’ and fulfils every expectation that I, as a climber, would want from my trek operator.

Henry Stedman is the author of the bestselling guide book to the mountain, Kilimanjaro: The Trekking Guide to Africa’s Highest Mountain. Now in its fifth edition, it has sold well over 100,000 copies since its first publication in 2001.

He also created and maintains the Climb Mount Kilimanjaro website, which has been viewed and used countless millions of times by countless millions of people since its inception in 2006.

He also runs the Waypoint51 website, about the great walks of Britain – ideal training for those wanting to climb Kili. 

Henry has scaled the mountain more than 30 times, and has also summitted Mount Meru on half a dozen occasions too. Nevertheless, friends still describe him as living proof that virtually anyone can climb Kilimanjaro.

Joshua Ruhimbi has been leading climbs on Kilimanjaro for over a decade now, and has reached the summit well over 200 times.

Chosen for his experience, professionalism and the fact he’s a lovely bloke, Joshua started off his Kilimanjaro career as a porter in 1999 and has risen through the ranks to become the chief guide at Kilimanjaro Experts.

His achievements on the mountain include heading up the expedition that culminated in the first wedding on top of Kilimanjaro, as well as leading a blind man  to the top – and no less than three successful wheelchair expeditions! 

A son of a school teacher and a member of the Haya tribe, which has its base near Lake Victoria, close to the border with Uganda, Joshua today lives just outside Arusha and is the father of four children.   

David Squire has worked on Kilimanjaro for over a decade and has climbed every route on the mountain. This included one climb in 2012 when he was accompanied by his entire family, including wife, daughter (19 years old at the time) and two sons (15). Needless to say, they all summitted successfully. 

His experience stretches beyond Kili, however, having trekked widely in Africa including climbs on Mounts Meru, Kenya and Stanley, as well as other destinations around the globe.

Prior to working on the mountain, David served in the British army for almost a decade.  These days, however, much of his spare time is spent helping other people to experience the great outdoors, for in addition to being our main trek coordinator, he is also a qualified Walking Group and Mountain Leader, as well as an Expedition Assessor for the Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme.

My name is Kassim Micky, 34 years old and a seasoned mountain guide with over 16 years of experience in the world of mountaineering.

With more than 170 successful Kilimanjaro summits under my belt, I bring a deep well of knowledge, endurance, and passion to every climb. As a certified Wilderness First Responder, safety is always at the heart of my approach—ensuring every adventure is not only thrilling but secure.

My name is Robert Thoya Masha, and I proudly share that I was born 35 years ago on the beautiful slopes of Mount Meru, located 70 km west of the renowned Mount Kilimanjaro. I am happily married and have the privilege of raising two wonderful daughters.

As a member of the Meru tribe, I had the unique experience of growing up along the border between Kenya and Tanzania, in a place known as Namanga. Following my high school education, I was fortunate to attend college, where I dedicated a year to studying tourism. During this period, I also had the opportunity to work part-time as a porter on Mount Kilimanjaro, an experience that allowed me to earn money for my studies while fostering my appreciation for the mountain.

After completing my studies, I continued my journey on Kilimanjaro as a porter for four additional years, which deepened my passion for the mountain and ultimately led me to pursue a career as a guide. Over the past eleven years, I have had the honour of summiting Mount Kilimanjaro more than 180 times as a guide.

Among the various routes, the Lemosho route holds a special place in my heart due to its breathtaking scenery and the high success rate of trekkers reaching the summit safely. I truly feel a profound connection to this magnificent mountain; it feels as if I belong to it, and in return, it belongs to me.

[Robert is too modest to mention this himself, but he is an absolute expert on wildlife and has taught me so many things about Kili’s flora and fauna that have ended up in the guide book.]

My name is Faraja Clement Mwaijande and I am a licensed mountain and safari guide.

I was born in Mbeya region in September 26th 1975 am almost 50years. My tribe is Nyakyusa, who are very famous for gospel song lyrics and preaching 🙏

I have climbed mountain Kilimanjaro more than 500 times since 1997 when I started as a porter, and I have guided diplomats, athletes, actors, students, families, special needs people and many others in that time.

When I am not on the mountain I love being a family man. I have one wife and three children – two sons and 0ne daughter. I’m a Christian by religion and my hobbies are singing, travelling, farming and helping my family and community.

My motto is a simple one, but very appropriate for those who wish to climb Kilimanjaro: plan ahead, be prepared, and be positive!

Rajabu Ressa Izina is 32 years old and from the Pare tribe, based around Mount Meru.

Though he’s only been working on Kili for five years he has quickly climbed the ranks and is now one our most trusted guides.

His speciality is the Alternative Lemosho trail, his personal favourite, though is experienced on all the trails.

Born in Arusha in 1987, Polite studied tourism, guiding and English at college in Arusha before beginning his Kilimanjaro career as a porter in 2007. Just a few short years later he moved up to assistant guide due to his vast knowledge about the mountain, work ethic, and enthusiasm. He recently attended Mweka Wildlife College where he earned a degree in wildlife management.

During his free time polite loves reading American and British novels since he considers it as a best way of constantly improving his knowledge in English. He also loves watching Hollywood movies the action genre being his favorite, he enjoys swimming, bicycle riding and spending time with his family.

Polite also works as a safari guide and says that guiding on Kilimanjaro and safari has given him vast knowledge of the flora and fauna in Tanzania. He mostly enjoys the view while climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro, its unique weather, and very cool sights that you cannot find anywhere but there.

He says his guest make him better at his job because he loves being challenged with questions about Tanzanian wildlife and topography “they motivate me to keep learning. I want to be able to answer any question they have. I like to shape their experience here in Tanzania and if am able to provide them with a lot of information then I take pride in that”.

Polite has climbed Kilimanjaro over more than 180 times, and most of his clients praise him for his high level of kindness and charm, and he ensures them that safety is what comes first before anything. He is a certified KINAPA guide, has attended several seminars on flora, fauna, first aid and rescue and holds Wilderness First Responder certification

Annually he joins our in-house training for first-Aid and emergency procedures as well as participating in our in-house training with cooks, waiters and campsite crew. In 2017, he was among the finalists for the guide of the year awards, held by the Tanzanian Tourist Board and the Kilimanjaro Guides Association.

Lucina Focus is a 26-year-old with over 65 ascents of Kilimanjaro. A seasoned mountain guide with over 65 successful ascents to her name, she is a member of the Chagga tribe and was born and raised near the slopes of Africa’s highest peak, which give her a deep-rooted connection to the mountain.

Like most guides, Lucina’s jstarted off as a porter, where she developed a profound appreciation for the mountain’s challenges and beauty. Through dedication and perseverance, she transitioned to the role of a guide, leading climbers with expertise and enthusiasm.

While Lucina appreciates all the routes up Kilimanjaro, she holds summit day in special regard, finding it the most rewarding part of the journey. Her extensive experience and dedication ensure that climbers are well-prepared and supported throughout their expedition.

Lucina’s background in the Chagga community, known for its rich traditions and close ties to the mountain, provides her with unique insights that she shares with climbers, offering a culturally immersive experience. Her commitment to safety, coupled with her passion for guiding, makes her a trusted companion for those seeking to reach Kilimanjaro’s summit.

Born in the small town of Musoma near the shores of Lake Victoria, Shabani Micky Mbasa is a proud father of two and a passionate mountain guide.

Thanks to his strength and experience – Shabani has been working on Mount Kilimanjaro for the past 17 years, and has successfully summited the mountain over 100 times – he has become our main guide for Ironman treks.

Since 2020, he has been a dedicated guide with Kilimanjaro Experts, helping adventurers from around the world reach the Roof of Africa with safety, care, and unforgettable memories.

Meet “Queen Janeth”, a passionate and experienced mountain guide and a qualified and certified Wilderness First Responder who has over a decade of expertise in mountaineering. At just 29 years old, she has already spent nearly half her life exploring and conquering some of the most breathtaking peaks in East Africa.

Proudly hailing from the Ngoni tribe, Janeth carries her cultural heritage with grace and strength, embodying the resilience and spirit of her people in every step she takes on the mountain. Her favourite route, the scenic and adventurous Lemosho and Alternative Lemosho Routes, holds a special place in her heart—not just for their beauty, but for the deep connection she feels with the land as she leads others to the summit of Kilimanjaro.

Janeth is known for her leadership, warmth, and unwavering dedication to safety and success on the trails. Her clients often describe her as both a fierce motivator and a nurturing presence—traits that shine even brighter since becoming a mother to her two-year-old daughter, who inspires her every day to climb higher, dream bigger, and pave the way for future generations of strong women.

With every trek, the Queen not only guides climbers to new heights but also shares the story of her life—of heritage, motherhood, strength, and adventure.

My name is Abdallah Mohamed Msuya. I was born in the breathtaking town of Arusha,Tanzania in 1993. This is where I currently live and work. My tribe is actually Pare,which is an indigenous ethnic group residing in the northern eastern region of Tanzania.

Since my childhood I have been discovering, exploring and developing a deep love for enormous mountains that sorround the area, such as Mount Meru and Kilimanjaro.

As I matured, my vast passion for mountains and  working in this environment led me to pursue a career as a mountain guide.

Today, I share the knowledge accumulated through years of mountaineering, hiking and climbing Kilimanjaro as a guide, inspiring my clients to fulfil their dream of reaching the top of the highest mountain in Africa.

As a guide,I have summitted more than 150 times and my favourite route is the Alternative Lemosho. I always want to provide an incredible experience for the tourists by providing information about the mountain and guiding them through the enchanting beauty of nature.

Hosea Samwel is 48 years old and from the Pare tribe, though he was born and raised in Arusha.

Having worked on Kili for more than 21 years as porter and guide, he has summited Kilimanjaro a staggering 476 times, and now works as one o our head guides.

His favourite route is the Alternative Lemosho, though as he is at his happiest on the mountain, it doesn’t really matter to him what route he takes!

Hello! My name is Noel Ngoye, and I am an experienced Mountaineering Guide based at Mount Kilimanjaro. With over 10 years of guiding experience, I have had the privilege of leading climbers from all over the world to the summit of Africa’s highest peak.

My background includes a formal education in wildlife management, a certified course in mountain first aid, and professional training in forestry. This combination of skills allows me to offer not only a safe and well-organized trekking experience, but also to share deep insights about the mountain’s ecosystem, flora, and fauna.

Among the several routes up Kilimanjaro, my personal favourite is the Lemosho Route due to its scenic beauty, diverse landscapes, and excellent acclimatization profile.

I proudly come from the Sukuma tribe, and I was born and raised in the Mwanza region. My cultural heritage is something I enjoy sharing with my clients as part of the rich Tanzanian experience.

I am passionate about what I do and fully committed to ensuring every climber not only reaches their goal but also enjoys a memorable and meaningful adventure.

Born in Arusha and proud to be part of the Chagga tribe, Dickson Odear Kimaro, 28 has climbed Mt. Kilimanjaro over 100 times.

His favourite route is the scenic Lemosho Route/Alternative Lemosho Route, which he loves for its stunning landscapes and the gradual ascent that allows for better acclimatization.

One of Dickson’s most remarkable achievements was summiting Kilimanjaro in just 14 hours, a feat that speaks to both his endurance and deep familiarity with the mountain.

When he’s not guiding trekkers to the Roof of Africa, Dickson enjoys travelling and exploring new places.

His experience, passion for the outdoors, and easygoing nature make every trek with him both safe and unforgettable.

One of our younger guides, 24-year-old Macmillan Nanyaro, from the Meru tribe has nevertheless some pretty extensive experience in high-altitude trekking, having successfully summited Mount Kilimanjaro 79 times and Mount Meru 32 times.

His favourite route on Kilimanjaro is the Umbwe Route because of its breathtaking scenery and excellent acclimatization profile — a perfect path to the Roof of Africa.

He is a qualified Wilderness First Responder (WFR) and is currently advancing his skills through a Safari Guide Training Program at Mweka Wildlife College. These qualifications reflect his commitment to safety, professionalism, and delivering unforgettable experiences in the wild.

Beyond guiding, Macmillan is passionate about wildlife, birding, long-distance running and mountain biking safaris.

Another of our guides from the local Chagga tribe, Dickson Festo Lyimo is 45 years old and has been leading treks on Kili since 2009, having worked as a porter for several years before that.

Small wonder, then, that he has summited more than 350 times on Africa’s Highest Mountain!

A reliable and friendly guide, he joined KE several years ago and considers Lemosho, Machame, Umbwe and Rongai as his favourite trails.

I’m Hillary Marto, a 27-year-old guide from the Kilimanjaro region, born and raised on the slopes of the mountain.

With over 250 Kilimanjaro climbs and 81 successful summits, I’m passionate about guiding and capturing unforgettable moments through photography.

Hiking Mount Kilimanjaro is a truly unforgettable journey—one that inspires you to pursue your dreams and conquer any obstacles in your way.

Father of one Frednand Shirati Kisia, 39, is from the Luo tribe though he grew up in Arusha.

Having served as a porter for more than 7yrs, in February 2011 Frednand studied tourism at college and used his skills to become one of our most reliable guides.

He has now reached the  summit of Africa more than 270 times as both porter and guide. His favourite route on Kilimanjaro is Lemosho, though enjoys all the trails.

My name is Haruna Jumanne Mensah, I am 44 years old and I am from the Manyema tribe, near the city of Kigoma, close to Lake Tanganyika.

I am a certified mountain & safari guide, having studied at Mweka College on the lower slopes of Kilimanjaro.

I have already climbed Kili 120 times in mount kilimanjaro and 50 times on mount meru. My favourite route on Kilimanjaro is Umbwe.

When I’m not working on the mountain I work in agriculture.

Mariam Denis Fumbi was born in Mpwapwa Region in Dodoma in January 2003.

Her initial passion for mechanics changed after visiting her grandmother in Arusha one time. Initially climbing Kilimanjaro as a porter, Mariam was sponsored by KE to gain her Mweka course certification.

Still young and inexperienced, for the moment Mariam still works as a porter while attending guiding classes, working towards her ambition to be a professional female guide both on Kilimanjaro and on safari.

Humble, fun and hard-working, she will be at the forefront of the next generation of KE guides, and aims to inspire her fellow females in her village and throughout Tanzania to follow their dreams.

 

My name is Paul Sigifridi, I’m 34 years old, and I’m a member of the Chagga tribe that are based around the slopes of Kilimanjaro.

I was born at Dar es Salaam but now live in Arusha, where I’m the father of two children – a boy and a girl. My career on Kilimanjaro started when I became a mountain as a porter in 2013. Since then I have climbed the mountain more than 150 times. 

My name is Gideon David Meena, born in Arusha 1997. I studied mountain guide short course at Mweka College of Africa Wildlife  Management 2022, WFR course at sentinel outdoor institute 2024. I am also in the process of studying wildlife at African Wilderness Experience College.

I started climbing as a mountain porter on Kilimanjaro back in 2019, before graduating in 2023 into my current position as an assistant guide.

As well as climbing Kili – with the Lemosho route my favourite path on the mountain – I also enjoy birdwatching, walking in the forest to explore new things and improve my knowledge of nature, and basketball.