Summit Expeditions & Nomadic Experience

Sustainability Practices

SENE is a member of Leave No Trace, the Colorado-based environmental ethics organization. We strictly observe all its principles while on Kilimanjaro and safari. SENE guides and porters are widely known for picking up others' trash while on the mountain. Owner Simon Mtuy is spearheading an effort to have the Kilimanjaro National Park Authority adopt LNT principles for all companies climbing the mountain. SENE's Mbahe Village cottages are made with all local material and use local products in all guest cottages. All food comes from the organic farm on the property or purchased locally. Accommodations were built with minimal environmental destruction, are set amongst the coffee and vegetable farms, and use footpath access only. SENE's stated mission is "to take care of Tanzania while showing her to people who care enough to come meet her." Founder Simon Mtuy is driven by the notion that the local people of Tanzania should develop profitable, sustainable, locally owned and operated businesses that promote his beautiful country while contributing to its well being. He employs local villagers, which strengthens their relationship to the mountain and surrounding land. SENE knows that economic opportunity locally in businesses that rely on the beauty and biodiversity of the land is the best way to protect the land for future generations. All our guests stay in Mbahe village on Kilimanjaro when not on safari or climbing the mountain and are given village tours that include information on the history and culture of the local Chagga people, introduction to the flora and fauna of the region, and a description of the farming practices of the Chagga on Kilimanjaro. At the conclusion of every Kilimanjaro climb SENE has a celebration that includes the climbers and all the guides and porters to recognize that every climb is a team effort. All members of the expedition are honored at this time and a combination of western and local food and drink are served for a cross-cultural experience. SENE hires exclusively local employees in Kilimanjaro, has its main office in Kilimanjaro, and has its guest accommodations in Kilimanjaro. Simon Mtuy is widely respected in his community as a successful entrepreneur who gives back to his community. SENE is a model in the local community of a successful local business bringing valued prestige and income into the community. Simon Mtuy himself constantly informs and teaches both employees and guests about the mutual benefit to both from Kilimanjaro and safari trips and about the importance of preserving the environment on Kilimanjaro and in all of Tanzania as it is the most valuable and sustainable resource for community economic development.