I have read some of the posts on the different guide companies out there (including the one on Zara), but I was wondering if there is any progress out there on what seems like an old debate on using a "high cost western" company vs. a "budget" operator? In particular, I was wondering if there were thoughts on Thomson Safaris vs. Kiliwarriors vs. Tusker vs. Zara (probably via 7summits)?

Would there be one in particular recommended for a western route and the crater camp?

Thanks for the info, I am just starting my research for my first attempt of Kilimanjaro, so it is very much appreciated.

I went with Zara and remain convinced I chose wisely. That being said, most people who have climbed Kili are pretty supportive of whatever outfit took them up the mountain, so I'm sure you'll find people who are just as gung-ho about Tusker and the others.

If you do decide to go with Zara, I'd suggest dealing with them directly via the website instead of going through someone else. One of the main reasons I chose Zara in the first place was how easy it was to set the whole thing up.

great points made. Thank you.

Dear 3DS3,

I went with Tusker and was lucky enought to climb the Western Breach via the Lemosho route before the Breach was closed.

Tusker still guides the Lemosho Glades trail past Lava Tower and does a 180 up through Barafu Camp to Crater Camp in the daylight.

I'm of the opinion that spending one night at 18,800ft at Crater Camp is a lifetime must.

The walkabout around the glaciers will not be available forever and your summit day will be 7 to 8 hours shorter.

For my complete story please see the "Nothing but Sky" story on this website.

Traveling with a dinning tent and an outhouse costs a little more but I was never disappointed. We had happy positive guides and porters around us and the guides prepared us to succeed.

The very best of luck to you,

ED

Thanks! I ended up booking with Thomson. They are expensive, but they offer the western route, option to hike the lava tower, crater camp, etc. Like I said, they are expensive, but it seems like good piece of mind for me and worth it. They have been very professional with everything so far, they have a great reputation for the way they treat and respect the porters, some well known organizations recommend them, and they have their U.S. base pretty much in my home town. I am scheduled to head out June 28th and cannot wait!

I will certainly provide all the feedback I can from here and back.

3DS3

Excellent choice. They are the outfitter that assisted in the IMAX film.
They were one of my final considerations. I ultimatly picked Tusker because they offered a 9 up/2 down trip that gave this flatlander, and his son, plenty of time to acclimate.

Have a great time!

George Mallory - "It is impossible to make any who have not experienced it realize what that thrill means. It proceeds partly from a legitimate joy and pride in life"