Climbing the Seven Summits and Charles Darwin University Partner to Protect Mountain Ecosystems

Climbing the Seven Summits and Charles Darwin University Partner to Protect Mountain Ecosystems

At Climbing the Seven Summits (CTSS), we’re committed to providing world-class mountaineering experiences while prioritizing the health and sustainability of the environments we explore and the mountain communities who support us. As part of this commitment, we are excited to announce a new partnership with researchers from Charles Darwin University (CDU) to better understand and mitigate the mountaineering industry’s impact on the ecosystems surrounding the Seven Summits.

Led by CDU Lecturer in Sustainability Leadership and Management Dr. Chrystie Watson—who will climb each of the Seven Summits with CTSS—this long-term project will assess the effectiveness of management strategies, investigate the environmental psychology of mountaineers, and review industry practices. CTSS aims to use the study’s findings to inform how we can not only improve our own practices but promote greater social, economic, and environmental stewardship across the mountaineering industry.

We believe that true adventure is built on integrity—caring for the fragile ecosystems, local communities, and economies that support our industry. Ethical and sustainable adventure travel isn’t an add-on for us; it’s the foundation on which we operate. By partnering with CDU, we aim to enhance our ongoing sustainability efforts with not only field data collected by researchers but also first-hand insight from CTSS climbers and guides.

Sustainability in the mountains probably conjures images from recent media coverage highlighting issues of environmental degradation and over-tourism, which has raised questions about the long-term sustainability of mountaineering on the world’s great peaks. While critically important, environmental sustainability—including minimizing the ecological footprint of climbers by reducing waste, preventing trail erosion, and protecting biodiversity—is only one aspect of a wholistic approach to preserving these cherished places. 

Tour the CTSS Everest Base Camp powered by the largest solar array on the mountain.

Economic sustainability, for example, ensures that local communities benefit fairly from the mountaineering industry. This means supporting local guides, porters, and businesses by providing fair wages, investing in local infrastructure, and fostering responsible tourism that contributes to long-term economic stability.

Discover how your registration fees help empower local communities through education.

Social sustainability emphasizes the ethical treatment of workers, cultural respect, and community engagement. This includes ensuring safe working conditions for porters and guides, respecting indigenous traditions, and involving local stakeholders in decision-making processes.

Learn more about CTSS’s commitment to porter welfare on Kilimanjaro.

Together, these three pillars of sustainability help create a mountaineering experience that not only preserves the natural beauty of the world’s highest peaks but also supports the people and economies that rely on them—and on whom our climbers rely.

We encourage all members of the CTSS and broader mountaineering community to join us in the pursuit of sustainable adventure travel by adopting responsible practices. In addition to following Leave No Trace principles, reducing waste, choosing eco-friendly or secondhand gear, consider the opportunities below to have a greater impact while leaving a smaller footprint.

Seven Summits Sustainability Project

CTSS’s broader commitment to sustainability

As this initiative unfolds, CTSS and CDU will release research findings, policy recommendations, and best practice guidelines to encourage sustainable mountaineering worldwide. The ultimate goal is to ensure that high-altitude environments remain both resilient and accessible, even as more people seek the challenge and beauty of these majestic landscapes.

We believe partnerships like this—which combine field research, industry expertise, and a shared passion for sustainability—are essential to finding solutions that allow mountaineers to explore while minimizing the negative impact on the natural world. CTSS is proud to take this next step in expanding our commitment to sustainability, and we hope you’ll join us in paving the way toward safeguarding the world’s greatest peaks for generations to come!


More Summits on Aconcagua for our Team Climbers!

Our Aconcagua team summited today under sunny weather! A massive congratulations to the entire team.

The following climbers stood on top:

  • Heather H.
  • Cal H.
  • Juan O.
  • Jody B.
  • Brandon H.
  • CTSS Guide Lucas D.

The team is back at Plaza de Mulas, recovering and celebrating before they trek out tomorrow.


Kilimanjaro & Ethical Trekking: Why Porter Welfare Matters

Kilimanjaro & Ethical Trekking: Why Porter Welfare Matters

Kilimanjaro isn’t just another peak—it’s often the gateway to high-altitude climbing and, for many, the first step in tackling the Seven Summits. The experience you have on this mountain shapes the foundation of your mountaineering career, making ethics a crucial piece of the puzzle to consider. With nearly 300 Kilimanjaro operators to choose from, it’s essential for climbers to be aware of the realities of the tourism industry on the mountain.

Every expedition is only as strong as its team, and no one plays a more vital role on Kilimanjaro than the porters. They haul the gear, set up camp, prepare meals, and ensure climbers have the best possible chance of success. Yet, approximately 70% of operators on Kilimanjaro DO NOT meet ethical standards, meaning hardworking porters are often exploited and mistreated, receiving little to no wages, tips, food, or proper sleeping conditions.

This is where the Kilimanjaro Responsible Trekking Organization (KRTO), formerly known as the Kilimanjaro Porters Assistance Project (KPAP), steps in—setting the gold standard for fair porter treatment and implementing accountability for climbing companies. 

As a certified KRTO partner, Climbing the Seven Summits (CTSS) is proud to be among the companies prioritizing ethical trekking. We believe that climbing in good style isn’t just about reaching the summit—it’s about how you get there and ensuring that every member of the team is treated with dignity and respect.

Why Porters Matter

Porters are the backbone of all Kilimanjaro expeditions, making summit attempts possible for thousands of climbers each year. If you’ve climbed other high-altitude peaks, think of Kilimanjaro’s porters as the equivalent of Everest’s ice doctors or even the muleteers on Aconcagua. Their work goes beyond carrying loads—they create an environment that enables success.

Porters carry essential equipment, including tents, sleeping bags, food, and personal gear, allowing climbers to ascend with only a daypack. They also set up and dismantle camp, prepare meals, fetch and purify water, and provide encouragement and motivation along the way through their traditional songs and stories. 

For an expedition to be KRTO-approved, porters must not carry more than 44 lbs (20kg) and must have access to proper gear, food, and sleeping conditions. Unfortunately, many non-approved operators ignore these regulations, forcing porters to endure harsh conditions for minimal pay. If you come across a price point that is too good to be true, it probably is. discount operators often keep their prices low at the expense of their porters.

KRTO: The Gold Standard for Porter Welfare

KRTO stands as a beacon of sustainable tourism and social responsibility on the Roof of Africa. Originally founded in 2003 by the International Mountain Explorers Connection (IMEC), the organization was created to address poor working conditions on Kilimanjaro. Their mission is to ensure responsible trekking by advocating for fair treatment of porters, educating the public on porter welfare, and implementing accountability measures for climbing companies. Their focus includes:

  • Free clothing lending programs to ensure porters have proper gear
  • Education and empowerment through free English, First Aid, HIV/AIDS awareness, money management, and porter rights classes
  • Public awareness and advocacy for proper porter treatment

KRTO continuously monitors its partner companies through:

  • Porter questionnaires and interviews to gather direct feedback
  • Examination of salary distribution methods to ensure fair wages are paid
  • Review of tipping procedures for transparency
  • Audit and reporting by investigative porters who document working conditions on expeditions

“The working conditions for porters changed when KRTO came on the scene. There’s a big difference between KRTO and non-KRTO-approved companies. I no longer have to pay bribes to get work, and I receive the salary I deserve.”

– Michael, Kilimanjaro Porter

Since its inception, KRTO has significantly improved the lives of Kilimanjaro porters by ensuring better working conditions, fair treatment, and increased opportunities. Porters on 37,478 expeditions have borrowed KRTO’s mountain climbing gear free of charge, ensuring they have access to the necessary clothing and equipment. Each year, more than 7,000 porters benefit from fair wages and ethical employment standards, while more than 16,000 porters and guides have participated in free education programs.

KRTO also focuses on labor rights, with 5,000+ porters trained to understand and advocate for their rights in the workplace. Environmental responsibility is another priority, with more than 1,100 porters certified in Leave No Trace (LNT) principles, ensuring Kilimanjaro remains pristine for future generations. Additionally, 1,300+ guides and porters have received first aid certification, enhancing safety for both staff and climbers.

The positive impact of KRTO often extends into the broader lives of porters off the mountain, empowering them to support their families, invest in education, and create additional sources of income during the off-season.

“There is a big difference between now and [before joining] KRTO.  I have benefitted a lot and have made huge steps in life. My children are in school, I rent a farm for agriculture, and I also keep 3 goats and 2 sheep, all from my mountain wages. I have diversified my income sources when not working on the mountain. I sell shoes and clothes and do food vending, depending on the seasons and opportunity. May God bless KRTO because they have helped us a lot.” 

– Anna, Kilimanjaro Porter

CTSS & KRTO: The Future of Ethical Adventure Travel

At CTSS, ethical trekking isn’t an add-on—it’s the foundation of how we operate. Our partnership with KRTO ensures that every porter on our Kilimanjaro expeditions is treated fairly, with respect and dignity. 

At CTSS, we pay a minimum wage of 20,000 Tanzanian shillings per day, with all wages paid within two days of trip completion. Porters receive three full meals per day, high-quality tents for shelter, and no individual carries more than 20kg (44 lbs). Each climber is supported by at least three porters, reducing physical strain and improving the overall trekking experience. Our compliance with KRTO standards is independently monitored, ensuring transparency and accountability.

But our commitment doesn’t stop at Kilimanjaro. Across all our expeditions, from Everest to Vinson, we champion ethical and sustainable adventure travel—investing in local communities, following strict environmental standards, and advocating for fair treatment of guides, porters, and staff worldwide. A percentage of every expedition fee goes directly to the Tiger of the Snows Fund, which, in turn, provides scholarships, training, and other initiatives that improve the well-being of those who dedicate their lives to the mountains. Over the last five years, this non-profit has funded the education of three Chagga students whose parents are porters on Kilimanjaro. 

Whether through our partnership with KRTO, contributions to the Tiger of the Snows Fund, or our adherence to Leave No Trace principles, CTSS is setting the standard for responsible climbing. And for us, the true measure of success isn’t just reaching the summit—it’s the impact we leave behind. When you climb with CTSS, you’re not just standing on top of a mountain—you’re standing for something bigger.

If you’d like to directly support KRTO and the mountain crews that work on Kilimanjaro, you can donate directly or participate in their initiative called Bring Some More to Kilimanjaro. In short, you can donate your gently used trekking gear, clothing, and footwear to support their gear lending program. Due to the expensive mailing costs and import taxes in Tanzania, it is best to have the gear carried by individuals who are traveling to Tanzania. Reach out to KRTO if you’d like to do this so they can advise you on customs procedures.


Camp Two on Aconcagua

Our Ecuador team wrapped their adventure with a final celebratory dinner before bidding farewell and heading home. A huge thank you to everyone for making this an unforgettable trip!

Meanwhile, on Aconcagua, our team climb is off to a great start with a successful trek into base camp at Plaza Argentina. Followed by load carriers and moves to Camp 1 and Camp 2. Everyone is feeling strong, and we are excited to continue sharing updates on their progress. Here are a few shots from CTSS guide Lucas:

Our private climbers on Aconcagua are also making great progress! The team has reached Camp 2 and is taking a well-earned rest day while keeping a close eye on the forecast as they prepare for their summit bid. Here are a few photos from CTSS guide Andres:


News from South America

Our Ecuador team had a great time on Chimborazo with excellent weather. This morning Toni, Marc and Daniel stood on top with guide Luke and Edgar, congratulation's team! They are back safe at high camp and starting to head back to Quito for a celebration dinner, before heading home.

Meanwhile on Aconcagua, our private team of Terry S & Guide Andres made the trek into base camp and are having a great time! They are starting to carry loads up to Camp 1 and feeling good!

Our Aconcagua team climb have started their trek into base camp and are moving well. One of our Guides Max sent over these photos of the first day of the trek in. Today our speed ascent climbers arrive in Mendoza where they will gear check, finalize their permits, and get ready to helicopter into base camp tomorrow to meet the rest of the team!

 

Ecuador 2025 Team on top of Chimborazo - Photo Edgar Parra
Chimborazo Summit Day - Photo Edgar Parra
Descending on Chimborazo - Photo Edgar Parra
Blue Skies on Approach to Aconcagua team on their way to Base Camp. Photo Guide Max

Terry S trekking into Base Camp Aconcagua - Photo Guide Andres G
The approach hike to Aconcagua Base Camp - Photo Guide Andres G
Aconcagua skies - Photo Guide Andres G
River crossing on the hike to Aconcagua Base Camp - Photo Guide Andres G
The approach to Aconcagua Base Camp - Photo Andres G
Terry S on his way to Aconcagua - Photo Andres G
Welcome to Base Camp Terry & Andres G

Success on Cayambe for CTSS

Our Ecuador Volcanoes team has been busy! Over the weekend, the team made their way to Cayambe (18,996 feet) for their second summit bid. With expert guide leadership, high spirits post-Cotopaxi, and excellent weather following the team, the summit window for Cayambe arrived, and the team made their successful summit.

Congratulations to the following team members for summiting:

  • Chelsey M.
  • Marc M.
  • Toni B.
  • Chad J.
  • Daniel B.
  • Kyle R.
  • Rajesh P.
  • Mavic R.
  • Guide Edgar P.
  • Guide Luke R.

Cayambe is the only major mountain in the world whose summit straddles the Equator, and it stands proudly as Ecuador’s third tallest peak.

The team is now headed to Thermas de Papallacta to soak in the hot springs and celebrate their success before some of the team continues onto Chimborazo (20,548 feet), our add-on climb available for this expedition.

Chimborazo, or Chimbo, is Ecuador’s tallest peak, and given its position on the planet’s equatorial bulge, it’s also the farthest point from the center of the Earth! We highly recommend climbing Chimbo as it’s a great way to make the most of your acclimatization, training, investment, and time in Ecuador.

Photos from CTSS Guide Edgar P. and Luke R.