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You'll love the way we climb & trek™ |
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Care, Service, Excellence. Every booking is handled personally. We return emails & phone calls promptly - many times we return calls from the slopes of Kilimanjaro via satellite phone! "F&S Kiliwarrior is the best on Kilimanjaro". We hear this often from our clients, but we are thrilled to hear this from our porters & guides. They've work for many of our competitors, so we value their opinions! Clients climbing with other companies often walk over to our camps to look at our setup. "We feel safer just knowing that the Kiliwarriors are in the same camp", they tell us! Wow! |
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Our Clients Speak...
We have many testimonials so we arranged it in two groups (2008-2007, 2006 and earlier). Please take some time to read how our clients all reached the same conclusion - the Kiliwarriors stand head and shoulders above the rest! And our clients should know - they saw most of the other outfitters camping next to us while on the mountain and there is no comparison!
In 2004, into the we had a remarkable 100% summit success rate (meaning that every client who paid, made it to Uhuru Peak and safely back down) ! This is unheard of on Kilimanjaro where the average success rate is around 60% or less! Since then we have been very near perfect with only a handful of clients that turned back for health reasons.
Our clients continue to rate our operation as "excellent", including the way we treat our porters - an aspect that's very important to us!
Here are the trip reports (some with pictures) from recent clients!
|
Trip & Photo Logs |
Kilimanjaro film production Oct 2007 |
| El-Hibri family - 2007 |
| Team Kiliwarrior! - Breast Cancer charity |
| Greg & Sean - 2007 |
| George & Tricia Bugg - 2007 |
| Lisa - 2007 |
| Fitzgerald - 2007 |
| Dutch Life - 2006 |
| BMS - 2006 |
| Team Hawaii - 2005 |
| Don Lambert - 2005 |
| Gavin-Nate-Balazs -2004 |
Feedback statistics (averages) since 2004. We claim to be the best outfitter on Kilimanjaro and our clients judge us accordingly. We operate in a tough environment under tough conditions and sometimes things don't go as planned! We ask our clients to help us be the best and they do so after every climb! We post their findings here so you can see where we were less than perfect in the past, and how we addressed our imperfections. Some of the most critical feedback are from caring clients who gave us the best testimonials! That's how it should be.
| Pre-climb information package | 0% poor 0% average 1% good 99% excellent |
| Meet & greet at Kilimanjaro airport | 0% poor 0% average 1% good 99% excellent |
| Pre-climb accommodation | 0% poor 1% average 2% good 97% excellent |
| Climb briefing | 0% poor 0% average 1% good 99% excellent |
| Food on the mountain | 0% poor 0% average 1% good 99% excellent |
| Water on the mountain | 0% poor 1% average 2% good 97% excellent |
| Quality of camping equipment | 0% poor 1% average 1% good 98% excellent |
| Transfers to/from the mountain | 0% poor 0% average 1% good 99% excellent |
| Quality of rental equipment (if applicable) | 0% poor 1% average 1% good 98% excellent |
| Mountain guide performance | 0% poor 0% average 0% good 100% excellent |
| Overall mountain team performance | 0% poor 0% average 0% good 100% excellent |
| How did we treat our porters? | 0% poor 0% average 1% good 99% excellent |
| Your mountain experience with us | 0% poor 0% average 0% good 100% excellent |
| Will you recommend us to new clients? | 0% no 0% maybe 0% yes 100% absolutely |
F&S Kiliwarrior responds to feedback:
The very few low scores were due to changes in equipment in 2004! Since then, we average an almost consistent "excellent".
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2007-2008
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There are not enough superlatives I could use to describe how good our
guides, porters, cooks and whole team were on the mountain.
We were supremely well looked after and the quality of our tents, the food
we were given and our water on the mountain really were 1st class.
I am absolutely certain that no other team on the mountain could have
gotten us all safely to the top and back again, especially given the snowy
conditions that we experienced on the Western Breach and in the crater.
First class job done by all and I would have no hesitation in recommending
Kiliwarriors to anyone. Certainly, they are a little more expensive than
other operators on the mountain, but having been there and done it, so to
speak, I can say that you definitely, definitely get what you pay for and
how other people can say they enjoyed climbing Kili in the condition we
saw them in is beyond me.
Mark Bow, Dublin Ireland
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This Kiliwarrior trip was about as good as it gets.
I felt that (and so did all of my group) we were given everything we were
promised and then some. I have no complaints. I thought the porters were
excellent. The guides Faraja and Justin were magnificent. They were
helpful, caring and accommodating. They watched over us and took care of
us. I can't say enough about them. We felt that the porters were safe and
well looked after. I would rate this a great trip, one that I will always
remember.
Safari Comments:
The safari was also wonderful. The lodges were great and our driver-guide
was extremely knowledgeable.
Charles Stusek, Menosha WI USA
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The only way to climb Kibo is with Kiliwarriors.
Time and time again you could see they were the best outfitter on the mountain. Take the Western Breach. Respect the mountain and it will respect you.
Steve Whitehead, West Yorkshire UK
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For an outstanding and memorable expedition to the summit of Kilimanjaro, thanks to the entire Kiliwarrior team.
Though others claim to offer similar services, I doubt there are any that run such a complete and professional operation, respecting both the needs of clients and the sanctity of the mountain itself.
If you are looking for an experience that gives you the best chance of feeling uplifted rather than drained, climb with Kiliwarriors.
Rod Maclean, Lincs England
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Lisa and I had the best time climbing Kili with Kiliwarriors. It was a lifetime experience. The songs we sang and danced are still with us and I don’t think they are coming out of our heads - ever. We really appreciate everybody’s hard work and the team effort to get us on the very top of Africa. We miss all the porters and guides.
Lisa and Andrew Precht, Seattle WA
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No better way to climb Kilimanjaro than with the Kiliwarriors!!
Wim Desmedt
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As we prepared to retire at the ages of 66
and 56, my wife and I looked forward to doing something special. We
decided to climb Mt. Kilimanjaro. We have hiked a lot in the Smoky Mts.
but had never truly climbed a mountain. I started looking for a company
for the trip and quickly learned that it would be a difficult choice.
Until, that is, we worked our way past the hype and saw the basic
philosophy of the different outfitters. We settled on Kiliwarriors for
several reasons. First, I liked Eben’s story about why Kiliwarriors was
created. And, I like Kiliwarriors’ focus on having fun while attending the
serious business of climbing a very high mountain in difficult weather.
Sure, they have all the medical equipment and know how to use it. But
rather than depending on fixing someone with a problem, the Kiliwarriors
concentrate on preventing problems. And to have fun on Kili you have to
have happy porters who want to share the fun. And share the fun the
Kiliwarriors do! On the mountain we saw many of the top companies
operating on Kilimanjaro. While other camps were like ghost towns, the
Kiliwarriors camps were buzzing with activity and were happy places. Our
porters were everywhere chatting, singing and having a good time. I’m sure
the other outfitters have good equipment, good guides and cooks, etc, but
they just did not seem to have the fun Kiliwarriors have. From what I saw,
only the Kiliwarriors concentrate on having FUN while attending the
serious business of climbing a mountain. And that is what we went half way
around the world to do; to have fun climbing the largest freestanding
mountain in the world.
When I made first contact with Kiliwarriors, Carol quickly returned my
mail and in the following months we kept in touch by e-mail and telephone.
I had what must have seemed to be an endless list of questions. But Carol
was patient and guided me in my decisions expertly. She assisted us in
arranging a safari after our climb and in booking additional hotel time so
we could relax between our activities and allow our aches and pains to
heal.
When we arrived at Kilimanjaro International Airport I admit that I was
relieved to see Wilbert Mollel with his Kiliwarrior shield, waiting for
us. Our arrangements went without a hitch and we soon were tucked in at
the Arusha Hotel. And before we knew it, we were on our way to Kili. Our
guides, Gideon and Hosea had our full trust and confidence. Our cook,
Emanuel and our assistant cook David worked miracles. The food they
prepared was really welcome after climbing in the rain, snow and cold for
hours! I told Gideon that I came to Africa for two things. To climb
Kilimanjaro and to see David dance. After Gideon told David that David
kept us entertained our entire trip!
After our climb we rested before departing for a 5 day safari. We were
lucky to have Gilliard for our guide. The man is a walking encyclopedia
and shares his knowledge freely. Emanuel was our cook and his cooking on
the Serengeti is as good at it was on Kili. Emanuel was assisted by
Shedrock, one of the hardest working, polite and anxious to please young
me I have ever met.
Oh, yes. We reached the summit at Uhuru on January 22, 2008, after taking
the Lemosho-Crater route. The weather was reported to be the worst that
any of the guides had ever seen, with more snow than ever experienced. And
it was one of the happiest moments of my life. Would we ever return? We
can only hope to. Would be even consider using anyone other than the
Kiliwarriors if we do return? No, never. The Kiliwarriors are quite simply
the best on the mountain.
Safari Comments:
Our safari to Ngorongoro and Serengeti was a wonderful experience. The
vastness of the Serengeti is unbelievable! It was one of the most relaxing
and fun trip I have ever made!
Scott Taylor, Orange Park FL USA
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The guides are
wonderful. They care for the clients as well as the porters.
Be a boy scout, prepare for snow and cold weather. Bring 3-4 days of
Gatorade or other rehydrating drink in case of upset stomach.
John Donovan, Salem OR USA
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We just can't say enough to express the fun
we had on our climb. We had challenging weather conditions, yet our team
pulled through in every way for us.
The food was great. Each and every person on our team who we interacted
with was just a joy to be around, from guide to porter and everyone in
between. We thoroughly enjoyed the singing and dancing. And the birthday
celebration for Andrea was beyond special.
We would not hesitate to recommend Kiliwarriors, and in fact would
recommend anyone considering another guiding company to think twice about
it.
Safari Comments:
I thoroughly enjoyed the Ngorongoro Crater. I thought that Lake Manyara
was a bit of a let down after that. Seemed more "touristy."
Victor was our guide, for both of the above, as well as a one day tour of
Arusha National Park (highly recommended) prior to our climb. Victor was
a joy to be with.
Dan Crisp and Andrea Wright Anderson Portland OR USA
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The 7 day Machame Route with Kiliwarriors was beyond description. The scenery and mountain were beyond compare. Our group had 4 clients and the small group made for an incredibly enjoyable climb and an opportunity to get to know our fellow climbers. Wilbert and the team of porters were the best prepared, safest, and most knowledgeable team on the mountain.
Kiliwarriors had the best equipment on the mountain, the best food, and took their clients health and well being seriously. They have the proper medical training and equipment to react when things go wrong (Wilbert saved a woman suffering from AMS during our descent when their team did not have the right equipment).
The porters are treated with respect and dignity and they work together on all of the climbs so they are not hired hands but in fact part of the team. I could go on an on but this operation is top notch and I have recommended them to anyone who will ask.
Shawn Seaman
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I am so glad that I went up with Kiliwarriors.
The whole team of porters, guide, cook was always very upbeat, happy and chatty. They looked very healthy and strong. This was in clear contrast to the teams from other companies who looked depressed, downbeat and some clearly looked very sick.
I was touched by many occasions of concern and care that my guide showed for the porter of other companies who were sick.
I would STRONGLY advise everyone planning to climb Kili to choose a company like Kiliwarriors.
Tariq Butt
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Awesome! I cannot say enough good things about our guides...Faraja, Hosea and Gideon and all of the porters. Each and every one of them made the trip and experience something I will never forget and one I will recommend to everyone. Kiliwarriors rock!
Safari Comments:
Oliver's Camp was the coolest place I have ever stayed at! It was
incredible!!
James McCune
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This was the perfect 40th birthday present!
With little time left in the day between working full time and taking care
of our children, I wanted to kick in my 40th birthday with a bit of a
challenge, but nothing that required alot of training just not enough time
in the day).
After reading about Kilimanjaro in Life Magazines "Heaven on Earth,100
Must See Destinations" I began the research that lead me to Kiliwarriors.
After much research I selected Kiliwarriors for three reasons; their
success rate, bathrooms and showers at times- in my opinion and the other
women on the trip opinion- a must have), and an article I read while I was
researching that described how Kiliwarriors had found and brought down a
hiker that was left by another tour company on the trail.
This was my first real hiking and camping trip but I was determined to
make it. It was the perfect balance of physical and mental challenges
carefully overseen with gentle quite encouragement and humor of the
Kiliwarrior staff. I felt safe the entire time.
After being on the mountain and seeing the other tours in action, I felt
that Kiliwarriors was the best in terms of staff (numbers and quality),
accommodations (your own place to relax and yes- bathrooms are
essential!!), food (fresh veggies, fruit, soups, meats, starches.. food we
recognize), as well as the campers themselves (professionals).
All of the reasons above were the reasons our whole party made it up and
down (do not underestimate this part) the mountain. Thank you again
Kiliwarriors for opening my mind to a whole new way of vacationing. We
are currently in the process of finding a similar outdoor adventure for
our whole family.
Safari Comments:
Our own car and guide allowed us to see what we wanted to see in the time
we had available. We saw it all. The accommodations (from the Crater
lodge to the Tented camp) and food where fantastic. They even baked me a
cake for my birthday!!! Kiliwarriors took care of it all.
Sincerely,
Susan Spring
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It's difficult to express the exhilaration of climbing with Kiliwarriors and reaching the summit.
Now, more than 2 months later, I've forgotten the mild hardships and only remember the care with which the trip was planned, the friendships between the clients, guides, and porters, and the stunning views and beauty of the African landscape. The guides were great; they paid constant attention to our health and safety, especially Hosea who led our own small sub-group of 4 climbers.
At 52, and my first time over 14K, I found this trip well within my ability, thanks in large part to the excellence of the Kiliwarrior team. I wouldn't climb with anyone else. I'm sure they're the best singers too!
Jon Wist
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The porters and guides of Kiliwarriors are quite simply, the best on the mountain. We literally put our lives in their hands for a week, and always knew they were taking good care of us. With every step we felt completely safe and absolutely protected by the whole group.
These are amazing people and I'm honored to
have met them and grateful for everything they did for me and our whole
group.
As for Wilbert: We put so much trust in him throughout the entire week
that once we got down we all joked that we couldn't make a decision
without him. He became our father, out doctor, our mentor, our
psychologist and - more importantly - our friend.
Terri-Sue Buchanan
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What an unbelievable, unforgettable
experience, to climb on Kilimanjaro with the Kiliwarriors! From our
initial contact with Carol in the the US, to our days spent with the
superbly skilled mountain team in Tanzania, our trip was totally seamless.
These folks handled everything with ease and grace, and all we had to do
was enjoy.
I was most impressed by:
The guides-Wilbert is a master of organization and leadership. Put this
man in a 3-piece suit and he could run any Fortune 500 company in the
world. And if Wilbert is the head of the team, Faraja is its heart and
soul, not to mention the biggest cheerleader. It is easy to see that the
whole team loves and looks up to Faraja.
Emmanuel and his kitchen crew-they provided meals on the mountain that
were better than those in the restaurant at our posh Arusha hotel. You
guys need to publish a Kiliwarrior cookbook-I know I'd buy one!
The team members-each has a job that he performs with pride and
excellence, and each goes out of his way to make you feel as though you
are family. Gideon, Jaba, Shedrock, Chaji, Kanini, and everyone-I can't
thank you enough for all you did for us.
Choosing a tour company off the internet was a real leap of faith. How
glad I am that we chose the Kiliwarriors. They are a class act, and I
recommend them highly!
Tricia Bugg
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The trip went well. Our guides and porters did a first-rate job.
Not knowing much about Kilimanjaro, I was not sure which route to take. I am 45 and about average fitness. I did a lot of walking before the trip but that was about it.
I chose the Lemosho/Crater 9 day route and it
was the right trip for me. I feel I got a good value for my money. Glad I
went. It was a good vacation. Next summer I will try the Kiliwarriors trip
on Mt.Meru and a safari. I hope I can get the same guides and porters.
John Doden
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We had a wonderful trip and made the summit on August 13th! We were not only impressed by the mountain and the climb, but with the quality and care that Faraja and his team had.
We were proud to be with the Kiliwarriors at every camp and would not recommend to climb Kilimanjaro with any other group!
Our safari at Little Governors was exceptional and we were able to view all the animals we hoped to see. Thanks for your help and your recommendations. Maybe we will have another climb in the future! Thanks again
Kyle & Ryan Santi, Tampa FL
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A great big thank you to a wonderful team. They were an inspiration and helped me to get to the top of the mountain. From Wilbert's hospitality in taking me to meet his beautiful mother to Faraja & Gideon's care and concern on the mountain, the whole trip was organized so professionally and personally that i would not think of going with any other company.
Although without doubt the hardest thing I have ever or will ever do it was worth it to make so many lovely people. The Kiliwarrior team are 'simply the best'!
Maureen Carey, Lochwinnoch Scotland
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A well organised trek system.
A happy crew with well informed and approachable guides.
I really enjoyed the experience it was laughter and jokes all round. No problem was to small, to much or unsolvable.
Us Brits, who were drug free, had no severe problems that detracted from our pleasure. An open mind, plenty of water, (I had to be force feed), and a will to succeed, the rest is taken care of by Kiliwarriors.
Well done.
Ian Richie, London England
Ian is on the left!
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What a wonderful experience! Everyone on the Kiliwarriors team was made us feel like family! Our guides and porters were always professional and we appreciate their attention to safety during our climb. After witnessing the conditions of the porters from other companies on the mountain, we are so thankful a group like the Kiliwarriors exists to offer a better alternative!
Summiting Kilimanjaro was an amazing, but the entire journey on the mountain was an awesome experience we shall remember for the rest of our lives!
Safari Comments:
Gilliard is the best!! A big thanks to him for being such and awesome guide!
Jennifer and Alan Ganter, Longmont CO
Alan and Jen are in front on the right!
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Before booking our trip I did an exhaustive search of many websites, travel forums, etc. and found that the Kiliwarriors, while smaller than most other companies, were very highly recommended. Now I know why!
Whenever our spirits started to dampen and I thought I couldn't go on, everyone was there with a word of encouragement and support. From our guides, Faraja and Hosea, to the excellent porters and cooks (the food was incredible!) all the staff were cared for and truly cared for us. We will always treasure our time on the mountain and the many friendships we made.
Thank you all for this once in a lifetime experience!
Safari Comments:
We traveled to Rwanda following our climb to see the Mountain Gorillas. Ernest and our driver William, were excellent. Both Ernest and William were knowledgeable and helpful. The gorillas were gorgeous and having one of the slap me in the face (I'm ok) was something I will remember forever.
Brian Sigler, Great Neck NY
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Jan, Ian and myself could not have been looked after better, and we are sure that treatment helped us to summit successfully on my 50th birthday, which was celebrated in true Kiliwarrior style, with a champagne party at crater camp, who else has had such a reception for their birthday.
The Kiliwarriors are truly the best!! I have never walked with such an enthusiastic, friendly, and truly sincere bunch of guys. If I had the space to name them all individually, I would. They were fantastic, from Jabba, who was always present in the camp, to Ernest, who was such a welcome sight, taking the load off my shoulders every time I came into camp, through to our excellent guides, Wilbert, Faraja, Hosea and the ever helpful Gideon.
Please extend my heartfelt gratitude to each and everyone of the Kiliwarrior crew who was influential in our summit success.
That was a 50th birthday I could never forget.
Allan Fitzgerald, London UK
Safari Comments:
Pongwe Beach was the perfect location for our post trek holiday. It was everything that Carol said it would be, and the staff and management were fantastic. first rate!
Allan and Janet Fitzgerald, Harrow United Kingdom
Janet and Allan are on the right!
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The Kiliwarrior crew that took us right to the top was as professional as it gets!!
What a great bunch of guys not only did they take amazing care of us they took amazing care of each other and until you are there in the middle of it, do you realize how important that is!!
Gina Fini, New York NY
Gina is in the middle!
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My husband and I had the time of our lives climbing with Kiliwarriors! The team was amazing- very knowledgeable, accommodating, and attentive to our every need. Our favorite part was the singing celebrations at each camp- it really helped to keep our spirits up. Even after 7 exhausting hours of climbing, we still couldn't help but sing and dance along.
The food was excellent, and we were very impressed by the daily monitoring of our pulse rate and oxygen saturation. We were VERY well taken care of. Thank you, Kiliwarriors, for making our experience such a positive one. We can't thank you enough!
Safari Comments:
We had an incredibly unique experience tracking the mountain gorillas in Rwanda. The accommodations were great, and seeing such beautiful animals up close and in their natural habitat was truly a magical experience, and one we will never forget!
Whitney Sigler, Great Neck NY
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There was nothing that you could have done to make the hike more enjoyable. Everything that we needed or wanted was arranged for us.
Safari Comments:
it was very nice that you were able to get us tickets to Zanzibar and information on where to stay.
Kealan Benjamin-Wardle, Denver CO
Kealan is on the left
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There is nothing that Kiliwarriors could have done better. From the moment they picked us up until they dropped us off after our climb, our expectations were completely exceeded.
We were completely taken care of in terms of every facet of our trip. We had the great opportunity to dine every night with our porters. We are now quite familiar with the Swahili words for the names of the 4 card suits and numbers. We were not really clients we were more members of the crew who didn't have to work as hard.
Thanks again, I intend to suggest Kiliwarriors to anyone who even mentions a passing interest in climbing Kili. I also imagine I will be climbing Kili again sometime in the future and I will be sure to go back to Kiliwarriors.
Safari Comments:
We showed up to Tanzania with no plans except climbing the mountain. We allowed some time after the climb for travel, but had no plans.
We showed up and our guide arranged a safari for the next day which was an experience we were quite happy with. Then, while on the mountain Kiliwarriors set us up with plane tickets to Zanzibar, which provided for some quality beach time after the climb.
Adam Vidoni, Denver CO
Adam
is on the right!
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I would without a doubt recommend the Kiliwarriors to anyone wanting to do Kilimanjaro. This was 1 of the best trips I have ever experienced. We were 1 big happy family on the mountain. Everyone from the guides to the porters could not have been more friendlier. The singing and dancing from everyone when reaching the different camps and the end, made for a happy fun end of day hiking.
The food was so incredibly wonderful and plenty to fill up your stomach. I truly had an experience that I will never ever forget. Why pay for a cheaper company that does not pay it's porters good and have just an ok trip when you can spend a little more and know that these people truly enjoy working for this company and will do everything to make sure you have and unforgettable time. Be smart and definitely choose the Kiliwarriors.
Mark Goldsmith, Corona CA
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You delivered everything you said you would. I was very happy with the Kiliwarriors. They were clearly the happiest group on the mountain.
Thanks for a great experience.
John Keating, San Diego CA
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This adventure trip, that was 2.5 years in the planning stages, was made a huge success by choosing the Kiliwarriors as the outfitter and guide.
From the early stages of planning that was guided by Eben and Carol here in the USA to the actual time spent in Tanzania, on and off the mountain with Wilbert and his crew - no better attitude and helpfulness could have been experienced.
During the 9 days on the mountain, the entire Kiliwarrior team from guides to porters made my son and I feel like a "brother" and not a client. We often smiled silently when the Kiliwarriors would sing and dance in camps and other outfitter's clients would gather to see the fun and love they were missing with their group.
Eben and Wilbert have it right by investing in a great group of Tanzania guys and quality equipment instead of many layers of "corporate" management and glossy brochures.
A little piece of my "heart" was left on Kilimanjaro - part with the mountain and part with the Kiliwarriors!
Simeon Hain, Zionsville IN
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Just a quick note to let you know what a great trip we had. All 6 of us made it to the top. The whole Kiliwarrior team was fantastic - we could not of made it without them.
If you ever need a referral - let me know -
Your outfit was the best on the mountain - hands down.
Thanks again for everything!
Ed Stuber, Syracuse NY
The Stuber party!
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Thank you for helping me reach the summit of Mt. Kilimanjaro, your
diligence and meticulous planning enabled me to realize my dreams and
aspirations of reaching the roof of Africa. The F&S Kiliwarrior guides, locals who
spoke fluent English, were an integral facet of the climb’s success and
possessed a thorough knowledge of the geography, wildlife, and history of
Kilimanjaro. They were not stingy with their expertise and -switching
easily into French- assisted a French couple outside of our group that
requested help at the crater camp because their own company had no safety
equipment. Add to this F&S's amenities of delicious hot food, a real
toilet and a warm shower and the result is a very comfortable trek. Your
outgoing, experienced and intelligent team made the journey to the summit
of Kibo an experience that was all I had imagined and an accomplishment I
will forever treasure.
Thanks again for your dedication,
John G. Stump Jr., Roanoke, VA USA
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Traveling into the unknown, I was always a bit uncertain prior to arrival of what was going to happen or how hard the climb would be. From the moment we were met at the airport, my confidence grew with the care and attention received by Wilbert and his team. Everything functioned with efficiency and without fuss.
I was not only impressed by the care we received but the way the porters were treated and that was seen in their contentment.
Have three codes of football ever been played at 14500 ft; i.e. soccer, American gridiron and Australian Rules!
Thanks F&S Kiliwarrior
Dr Benno Ihle, Hampton, VIC Australia
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Thank you for a wonderful experience. Our trip could not have been more satisfying. Climbing Kili was one of the hardest things I’ve ever done and there’s no way we could’ve reached the summit without the expert help of Wilbert and the rest of the team. Their professionalism, the equipment, the accommodations and the trip itself including the safari extension were all first rate.
Balazs Wellisch, San Diego, CA USA
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F & S Kiliwarrior made the whole Kilimanjaro
experience complete. From the food to the camping equipment, everything is
of the highest quality. The whole show was run to an absolute optimum
level of professionalism while maintaining a fun, relaxed environment.
However, I think the memory that will stay with me forever will not be so
much the scenery, but the people. Interacting with the guides & porters is
what made this trip a truly African experience. Thank you to you all!
Tim Ihle, Hampton, VIC Australia!
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I think one of the biggest things that sets F&S Kiliwarrior apart from all other outfitters is the quality of their guides. From the first time we met, Wilbert and Faraja were nothing short of incredible. I remember one night when we left the mess tent after our usual nightly briefing on the events of the next day, and I said to my dad, "if something was to suddenly happen to Wilbert and Faraja tonight while we're sleeping, I would RUN, not walk, down this mountain soooo fast, haha..."
Climbing Kili is definitely a challenge, both mentally and physically. I won't lie; after a few days, you definitely start feeling it. F&S Kiliwarrior provided incredibly professional, friendly, and knowledgeable guides that had everything perfectly planned and mapped out for us, so we never had to add any type of anxiety or worry on top of the physical and mental exertion. Nothing was ever left up to chance, and there was no time when any problem came up that Wilbert and Faraja hadn't seen a million times before. When you're sore, tired, and feeling the altitude, the last thing you need to be is worried about the next day. The guides' knowledge and constant encouragement really kept my attitude and motivation up, and truly made my climb as enjoyable as it was
Nina Gutowski, University of Virginia, VA USA
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I cannot praise F&S Kiliwarrior enough. Their success rate for summitting is unmatched and for
good reason; they know the mountain and they know how to climb. They
lessen the odds against altitude sickness with an appropriate
acclimatization schedule and terrific food. It is also obvious from day
one to the end of the climb that F&S Kiliwarrior respects their porters
better than any other outfitter. It is unbelievable that they are not the
most expensive provider on the mountain. They are, however, the best.
Steve Ball, La Canada, CA USA
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I found F&S Kiliwarrior surfing the internet when my 19 year old daughter and I (50 yo dad) decided to climb Kili. We successfully climbed the Western Breach and on several occasions, I visited with many other climbing parties on the Mountain. Without question, F&S is the finest company on the Mountain. It's hard to know what's really important when sitting in your living trying to select a company to go with. Having now done it though, I can honestly say that the knowledge and skill of the guides, the quality and enthusiasm of the porters, the superior (and new) equipment is second to none. DO NOT opt for a budget operation for this trip. You will regret your decision when you are on the Mountain and see how well it can be done (F&S). I consider my finding F&S the way I did, and then deciding to go with them one of the luckiest and best decisions ever. I truly believe everything I have said here and would be happy to speak in more detail if necessary. I'm sure Eben could arrange this.
W. Thomas Gutowski MD Princeton, New Jersey
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What a great blessing to
walk and climb, and learn the local songs along the way.
Although the Mountain is awesome and a bit overwhelming at times, the
constant assurance of the guides and the gentle encouragement of the
porters, (a lively cast of wonderful characters), made the path appear as
bright as the noonday sun and the trail as clear and as sound as a walk
through a garden in the cool of the day.
My thanks to everyone at F&S Kiliwarrior for such a terrific adventure.
Se, se, se mama lucinday. Go Chargey-boy!
David Kenny, Los Angeles, CA USA
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My friend Nate and I decided it was high
time for us to embark on a new adventure. When Nate suggested that we
travel to Africa to climb Kilimanjaro, I could hardly contain my
excitement! Within a matter of days we had scowered the Internet looking
for the best outfit to help us achieve our summit goal. In no time at all,
it became very obvious that F&S Kiliwarrior had just what we were looking
for and more!
Our outstanding experience with F&S Kiliwarrior began long before we
arrived in Tanzania. Eben and his team were in regular contact with us via
e-mail to keep us up to date on trip details, to advise us on safari
options, and to answer our many questions regarding the climb.
Our positive feelings about F&S Kiliwarrior were further substantiated
when we arrived at Kilimanjaro International airport and were picked up by
Wilbert – who was very friendly, welcoming, and excited to help us achieve
our summit goal.
The climb itself was more of a personal challenge than I had imagined, but
the team of guides and porters from F&S Kiliwarrior went to great lengths
to support us, encourage us, and help us achieve our goal. In particular,
I want to thank “Biggie” for sticking with me while I struggled up the
Western Breach. He was always supportive and reminded me to take my time
(pole pole) to make it to the top.
In addition, I would like to thank all of the porters who did their
individual jobs extremely well and enhanced our experience to a great
degree. They were always smiling and had positive attitudes. The food and
service were surprisingly excellent as well. On a personal note, I truly
enjoyed talking with the porters and guides. They taught me a lot about
Tanzania, Arusha, Kilimanjaro, and how they live life on their side of the
globe.
I would highly recommend F&S Kiliwarrior to anyone who wants to fully
experience what Kilimanjaro has to offer.
Sincerely,
Gavin Worden
San Diego, CA USA
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On Feb 15 2004 my husband asked me what I
would like for my special birthday. My answer was –surprise me.
Six months later and 24 hours before departure I was informed about my
surprise - CLIMBING KILIMANJARO - the highest freestanding mountain in the
world. Andrzej (my husband) picked F&S KILIWARRIOR as our outfitter
because their approach gave us the greatest chance to succeed. Our family
included a 12-year-old son, 15-year-old daughter and 19-year-old son. We
are very ordinary family. My kids never slept in tents. We have NEVER
climbed any mountain and since it was a surprise we did not do any
preparations.
On 8/8/04 we landed in Tanzania. Wilbert greeted us. He drove us to the beautiful hotel were we could relax. Next day he and Eben showed us our road to the top via the Western Breach. It looked very long, but according to Eben the longer the time on the mountain the better chance for success. We had total of 9 days. Seven going up including 1 full day for acclimatization and 2 days going down. We had team of porters and 2 guides.
On the day of our departure to Kili my daughter got fever so my husband took her personal backpack, she took Tylenol and off we went. The scenery was beautiful, the guides very knowledgeable. They stop at any interesting flower or plant. My 12 year old for three hours was talking to Faraja (our guide). Justin (the assistant guide) was at the end of our group - making sure that the whole group gets to the camp. When we got there - the tents were ready, hot water provided, tea waited. A few hours later we had a great dinner. Portable toilets with hot showers were always available. That pattern repeated itself at every camp. (I have to add the mattress under the sleeping bags were very good; -thick foam and not thin plastic like other campers had).
All the porters were wonderful. My 12 year old spend more time with them than with us. He played cards with them, learned songs and ate ugali food.
In summary, thanks to the great organization our totally average inexperienced family, with a feverish kid, got to the top. We had a wonderful time and my children will be able to tell someday a story to their own children about a mountain in the middle of Africa with snow on top.
THANK YOU!
Anya Brzezinski, Lynnfield MA USA
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Go to Kili, or rather “Go-Kili.com” (a.k.a F&S Kiliwarrior) for they are the best. Though most would explain their excellence in the climbing business due to their superior, top-of-the-line climbing gear and superb planning (Which I can vouch for), I have a different view on it all. I believe their success is due to the crew (And their planning). Nearly all being part of an extended family, they are always laughing joking, and creating a tense-free happy area at camp and on the go. I believe that a great deal of my success was due to being been able to talk to our guide (Faraja) our Assistant guide (Justin) and our personal porter (Dixon) during our hike. And at camp I could enjoy a relaxing shower (Yes, they have showers, and a toilet that doesn’t stink) followed by a wonderful evening talking (or even playing cards with) to all the porters/crew.
I had the most wonderful time on Kilimanjaro and, well, it’s like they say, time goes by when you’re having fun! Thanks F&S KILIWARRIOR.
Sincerely,
Tomek Brzezinski Jr, Age 12 (“If I can make it, so can you”), Lynnfield MA USA
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Hiking to the Roof of Africa was such a great adventure. But making this trek with F&S Kiliwarrior - Wilbert, Faraja, Emanuel, Hosea and the whole Kili crew - truly made this a trip of a lifetime. They are an amazing group: experienced, knowledgeable, fun, and energetic. I felt like part of the team and not just a client.
The logistics for nine days on the mountain are daunting; however, F&S Kiliwarrior's experience makes for a seamless operation. Far exceeding any of my expectations, they proved to me that they are THE experts on the mountain.
F&S provided first-rate equipment, safety gear, and even beautiful weather (okay, maybe they didn't arrange that but it sure seemed like it was part of the package!)
I spoke with numerous climbers from other tour companies and witnessed first-hand what can happen if you choose the wrong company. Like most, I performed an exhaustive search of Kilimanjaro trip operators before finding F&S - I'm am SO happy I did!
Adria Owens, Fort Collins, CO USA
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I am so glad that I climbed with F&S Kiliwarrior, especially after what I saw on the mountain. The degree of professionalism and care for clients and porters far surpassed that of the other companies we saw during out climb. Our comfort, health and well being and that of the guides and porters were always seen to. The guides and porters knew what they were doing and knew where they were going (other groups were getting lost and backtracking and their porters had substandard, inappropriate or no equipment). I would only recommend F&S Kiliwarrior. The whole crew was amazing, patient, helpful, and encouraging. I am glad that I went with F&S Kiliwarrior.
Micae Martinet, La Jolla, CA USA
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F&S Kiliwarrior is simply the best service
organization I have ever encountered, not just best on the mountain, the
best ever. Their approach to climbing Kilimanjaro gives the client the
absolute best chance to succeed. I have climbed a lot of mountains up to
14,000 feet and and I felt better on the summit of Kilimanjaro than on
most of those previous climbs because of attention to acclimatization,
hydration, great food, and incredible support and encouragement from the
whole F&S Kiliwarrior team.
Successfully reaching the summit of Uhuru was only one of the highlights
of this trip (my personal favorite was the lunch on the Western Breach
with all of the porters).
This is a serious endeavor that is properly supported by an amazing team.
The attitude of the porters and guides, the singing, dancing,
encouragement and celebration for nine days is unforgettable.
I saw many other teams on Kilimanjaro and none of them came even close to
providing the services that my son and I received on this trip. Faraja and
Wilbert are simply the best guides on the mountain, period.
This was an experience of a lifetime for my son and I and F&S Kiliwarrior
understood that and delivered big time to the results. It is a great
experience that I will never forget.
Thank you F&S Kiliwarrior, you are the BEST.
F&S also booked a short safari to Tarangire NP prior to our climb and an
excursion to Zanzibar afterwards. Logistics for these extensions were
handled flawlessly. F&S is truly a professional service organization. I
recommend them without hesitation.
Timothy Kaye, Aurora, CO USA
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The organization, equipment, porter morale and the food could not be
improved and all of these contributed towards an experience of a lifetime.
People could not have been more friendly or helpful; nothing was too much
trouble and often we were helped before we realized we needed help. F&S
Kiliwarrior provide the ultimate in five-star camping and trekking.
Andrew Leigh and Eva Keogh, London UK
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Prior to my trip I considered these
testimonials excessive and too glowing to be true...and now I must humbly
renounce my cynicism:
All of my checked luggage was lost in transit, I had a cold for most of
the climb, & I returned home to discover that my camera malfunctioned
during most of the safari...and yet F&S Kiliwarrior made this one of the
best experiences of my life. The climb was spectacular and the safari
unbelievable, but what made the trip so fantastic were the people we got
to know on the mountain. My group marveled at how professional and
efficient Wilbert & his entire staff are...and then reveled in how warm
and fun everyone is! It was a privilege to get to know such impressive &
interesting mountaineers and I consider myself outrageously lucky to have
been cared for by them.
Everything that could be controlled was taken care of flawlessly, and
everything else was taken in stride. This is one of the most exceptional
organizations I have ever encountered and they are what made the trip so
perfect...stop even thinking about booking with anyone else.
Dawn Burkhardt, Pasadena, CA
Dawn is at the top left
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We found F&S Kiliwarrior through a friend's
referral, who provided a glowing account of his experience with them. Even
with this prior knowledge, and the detailed information on the
website...they still far exceeded our expectations. We had initially
worried about what the food would be like...but again we were very
pleasantly surprised by the daily variety, quality and quantity served.
F&S Kiliwarrior was extremely knowledgeable and professional...yet
provided fun and family like environment. All of the porters and guides
were happy, hard working, very friendly and well equipped. We always felt
very safe and well taken care of.
We had a group of 7 climbers and 30 guides/porters. The planning and
logistics for a trip like this seems extremely daunting...but Wilbert and
his team pulled it off flawlessly and consistently. Other groups camped
near us actually came over to find out who we had booked our trip with.
(The difference was that apparent!) We felt like VIPS from the beginning
to the end of our journey. F&S Kiliwarrior is with no doubt the finest and
most respected company on the mountain.
Everyone with our support team was wonderful. We do, however, want to
mention a few key people, because they were truly exceptional in our eyes:
Eben (outstanding), Wilbert (unbelievable), Gideon (our constant
lifesaver), Nestor - aka "Biggie" (encouragement), Obedi and Loserian (our
personal porters), Beautus, Rafael & Emmanuel (excellent cooks), Clemmons
(another lifesaver) and Herman (driver extraordinaire). We consider you -
our friends. Thank you all for making our experience on the mountain truly
rewarding and memorable.
Denise & Leonard Gomez - La Canada, California, USA
Denise & Leonard are the behind each other in the middle
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Excellent, is not even the best rating that can do justice to F&S Kiliwarrior. I can't even think of a word to describe the company without talking all night long, so I will make it brief. For starters if I had to do it all over again (and I just might) I would go with the same company. It was a five star climbing experience, if there is such a thing. From the first contact during the planning stages F&S took care of everything, even all of our ridiculous questions. From the moment we landed Wilbert made us feel like family. We got everything we expected and then some.
I ran into a bit of a problem at one of the lodges after the climb and poor Eben was phoned at 4 in the morning by my wife. He quickly did what he has to so that the mix up could be resolved, and It was. Other agents would have waited until the morning, but not Eben, knowing that it was 2 in the afternoon in Tanzania. Thank you Eben!
As for the climb there is no comparison, Wilbert and the KILIWARRIORS are the best, the number one! The food, the service, the equipment, and not to mention the friendship they had to offer was awesome. I will end by saying that if you ever entertain the thought of climbing Kili jump thru hoops to go with a top company like F&S Kiliwarrior.
Thanx Wilbert and Eben.
Victor (Kapombe) Laguna - Montebello, CA
Victor is at the bottom right
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Dear Eben
We had an amazing experience on the mountain. Joe just mentioned this morning that the bad things are fading in our memory and the good things are being remembered even more fondly. Our family, friends and colleagues were immensely proud of our achievement and, although I wished we had done better coming down the mountain, taking into consideration our age, Joe's bad leg and my having caught a really bad chest cold up there, Joe and I also are taking pride in what we accomplished. Wilbert and Justin and all our porter friends were awesome.
I cannot say enough good things about our
team. We feel very strongly that we would not have succeeded with any
other company. Here is our summit picture! I hope you enjoy it as much as
we enjoyed the Trek with Wilbert, Justin and the rest of the superb team
that helped make our climb successful.
All our best,
Joe and Nancy (Babu na Bibi) Kasko - Lisle, IL
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I had done lots of research on the net and sent out lots of letters to companies in order to ascertain which one would be most suitable, well-equipped and capable of assisting me/ guiding me safely up/down the mountain as I have a below-knee amputation. F&S were one of the first to come back with a positive response, and certainly the Western Breach seemed to be the route of choice.
I am still lost for words in praise and
gratitude to Wilbert, Faraja all the porters and Colin, my co-climber. All
the guys were thoughtful, sensitive, patient, knowledgeable and the best
of company all the way to the top.
Prior to my climb I was reluctant to join a group, as I didn't want to
hold anyone back and cause them any undue delay or irritation on the
ascent/descent, but as it turned out I subsequently agreed to climb with
Colin...a fantastic guy from Belfast. The most healing part for me was
standing on the top of Kibo at 7.30 am on Friday 29th October dancing with
Colin from Belfast...especially as I had lost my leg in an IRA bombing in
London in 1991!! What a fantastic twist in the tale.....just shows what a
great sense of humor God has and that he's got his eye on all of us.
I am still soaring even though I have been home for 2 months. I would never hesitate in recommending F&S to everyone. It might take a bit longer, it might be a bit more expensive....but I knew all along that I could trust Wilbert and Faraja with my life. I was on the top, absolutely jubilant, dancing and jumping around...wishing people a good morning who were just arriving from other routes, who could barely look up let alone exchange a word or two. I didn't realise why they were so grumpy until we descended what they had climbed...that route would certainly not have worked for me....no wonder so many people give up on other routes.
Thanks too to Eben and Chris for all their interest and encouragement from back at the ranch. This climb has meant SO much to me personally and spiritually...carry on the fantastic work and help others to climb that most fantastic mountain.
Susan Hanisch - Sedgwick, UK
F&S Kiliwarrior are undoubtedly the best outfitter operating on
Kilimanjaro - and considering the service, the prices are very reasonable.
Eben & Wilbert, This truly was the trip of a lifetime.
It was great not to have to worry about ANYTHING. From the time I arrived
at the airport to the time I was dropped off - I was treated like a
princess. No worries...even on the mountain. I knew every step of the way
that I was in good hands. The team was first class in every sense of the
word...and oh so much fun. The singing, laughing, playing cards, jokes,
teachings, seriousness and lightheartedness. We met other people on the
trails and they loved how much fun our team was. I think they wished they
booked with F&S Kiliwarrior too. The entire trip was Amazing! Linda Moraski, West Roxbury, MA
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Eben Your team is HANDS DOWN the best group on the
mountain! Wilbert, Giddy, and Jaba were so positive and patient with me
when we went out for an afternoon hike to the Lava Tower to acclimatize.
When we came around the corner and I saw the rocks we had to climb up I
got really scared. Yet Wilbert talked me through it one hand hold and foot
hold at a time, and Giddy and Jaba stayed right around me to support me.
They all encouraged me and I made it to the top NO PROBLEM. We cheered,
and it was like overcoming my own personal Kilimanjaro! I will never
forget it. The best part was getting to the rocks
on the Western Breach the next day and scrambling over them at 18,000
feet. The entire team is absolutely THE BEST and I am so grateful to all
of them. To be cheered and sung to every time we came into camp after a
hike, to have hot water and chai brought to us faithfully every morning,
to learn swahili and play cards with some of the group each night in the
cook tent and laugh hysterically -- it was all unforgettable. Your crew were the strongest, most
dedicated, and fun-loving men I've ever met. If it weren't for them and
their unfailing positive energy, I wouldn't have made it. Asante sana,
sana, sana to Wilbert and the group for giving me an experience of a
lifetime! Sarah Hull, Rockport, MA
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Although the Mountain threw her best shot in
trying to prevent us from obtaining the summit. My Son and I are proud to
say that "We Made It!" I was also evacuated the same day on the way down
from upper respiratory congestion. I was told on our last farewell night
gathering that I was the oldest individual at the age 68 to ever make the
summit with this company. I have now learned my limits, but the memories
of this climb with my Son can never be forgotten. We thank God that we
made it with such a professional team as F & S Kiliwarrior! Stormy & Mark Kimrey, San Angelo, TX Note from Eben: Stormy was very strong at
the summit but had breathing problems (not AMS-related) on the way down so
he and the guides decided to play it safe. As our clients are enrolled in
an Emergency Road & Air Rescue program, this was an easy decision. After a
medical check up, Stormy went back to the hotel and enjoyed his safari
afterwards!
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You will not find better !
Fergus Byrne, Los Angeles, CA.
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Linda
is on the leftSarah
is on the right
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The Kiliwarriors is an outstanding outfit that took
care of our every need---Supplies, tremendous food, comfortable
facilities, etc.. Some others we met with another company were envious of
our accommodations. Raphael, the cook, was amazing but so was Wil