Responsible Travel
Policy Regarding the Use of Porters on Trek
Policy Regarding the Use of Porters on Trek
At The Adventure Company we currently use porters to support treks in three countries:
- Nepal (Annapurna & Everest regions)
- Tanzania (Kilimanjaro and Mount Meru)
- Peru (the Inca Trail)
- Kenya (Mount Kenya)
We have discussed the issue of porter welfare at length with our local agents over a period of years. Not only do we take this matter very seriously, but realise that it is also of concern to our clients. In addition, it is of great importance to our local agents, all of whom have been active in promoting porter welfare.
Some time ago the policy statement shown below was sent to all relevant local agents, along with a questionnaire designed to reflect how various aspects of the policy have been implemented locally. We have monitored the replies and can categorically state that in the three countries listed we have ensured that our local suppliers take the welfare of porters extremely seriously and are in contact with local porter groups.
We enter all these locations essentially as guests of the local communities from which the porters are drawn, and feel that it is a matter of common courtesy to treat our hosts with the respect that we would expect of guests in our home environment.
Although we feel that there are drawbacks in trying to apply a blanket policy over different geographical areas that involve different cultures and socio-economic structures, there are enough general points to allow us to set out a company policy to cover all regions.
As a matter of company policy, The Adventure Company feels it essential that:
• All porters should be provided with suitable clothing, footwear and shelter while working.
• All porters should be adequately fed and paid while working, according to locally agreed guidelines.
• No porter should be asked to carry a load that is too heavy for their physical abilities. Weight limits should be adjusted for altitude, weather and trail conditions.
• All porters should be insured for sickness and accident, or have some alternative provision made for them.
• An injured or sick porter is entitled to the same level of medical care as any trekker.
• An injured or sick porter should never be required to make his way off a mountain alone, but should be accompanied by someone who speaks his language.
• An injured or sick porter should receive sufficient funds to cover the cost of his rescue and subsequent treatment.
• An appointed local agent of The Adventure Company must subscribe to this policy.
The Adventure Company subscribes to the aims of the International Porter Protection Group and the guidelines published by Tourism Concern.
