Moshi. Starting December 2025, Tanzania will witness a pioneering initiative that promises to reshape the country’s adventure tourism landscape.
Altezza Travel, a Moshi-based tour operator, is set to launch monthly all-female climbs of Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest peak in Africa.
This groundbreaking initiative aims to provide a supportive, gender-inclusive environment where women climbers can challenge themselves alongside a fully female support team.
The all-female mountaineering programme seeks to empower Tanzanian women within the traditionally male-dominated mountain professions, offering an unprecedented opportunity for female adventurers to scale the iconic summit together.
Altezza's project manager, Mr Dickson Muganda, spoke to The Citizen over the weekend, highlighting that every expedition will comprise not only female climbers but also a fully trained female crew, including mountain guides, porters, and cooks.
“Each member of the expedition team will be a woman, helping break the traditional gender barriers often associated with mountaineering,” he said.
He said the climbs will follow one of Kilimanjaro’s scenic routes carefully selected to accommodate participants of varying fitness levels, ensuring safe and enjoyable experiences for all.
Mr Muganda emphasised that the initiative reflects Altezza Travel’s broader ethical commitments, the company is known for its fair labour standards and dedication to environmental conservation.
Changing the narrative on gender roles
Historically, mountain guiding on Kilimanjaro has been a male-dominated profession.
However, Altezza Travel is actively transforming this narrative. The company has consistently employed female guides who are Wilderness First Responder certified, proving their capability in managing emergencies and leading expeditions with professionalism and expertise.
“This initiative builds on our long-standing commitment to increasing female participation in the mountain industry,” said Mr Muganda, adding.
“We want to inspire women to overcome the mental barriers often faced when considering challenging outdoor adventures.”
Creating a safe and supportive environment
According to Mr Muganda, many women hesitate to join mixed-gender climbing groups due to concerns about their physical abilities or uncomfortable social dynamics.
He said Altezza’s all-female climbs seek to address these anxieties by creating a space where participants share similar motivations and support each other throughout the journey.
“Fear of not being fit enough or the anxiety of being the ‘last in the group’ can discourage potential climbers. These concerns are often amplified in mixed-gender settings. Our initiative offers a space where women can challenge themselves without the added pressure of competing with male climbers,” explained Mr Muganda.
He said this approach fosters a positive and inclusive atmosphere, allowing women to focus on their personal progress and achievements free from external judgment or comparison.
Making mountaineering accessible for first-timers
One of the primary goals of Altezza’s all-female climbs according to Mr Muganda is to make mountaineering more accessible for women attempting this adventure for the first time.
He said for many, deciding to take on Kilimanjaro’s challenging ascent is a daunting prospect.
“The climbs are designed to be manageable for climbers of various fitness levels, prioritising safety without compromising the thrill and beauty of the journey,” said Mr Muganda, adding.
“Participants will experience Kilimanjaro’s diverse landscapes, from lush rainforest at the base to the stark, high-altitude desert near the summit.”
Furthermore, he said each expedition combines a physical challenge with a unique opportunity to connect with nature and fellow adventurers, aiming to turn the dream of conquering Africa’s tallest mountain into reality for women who may have lacked the confidence to take the first step.
Commitment to ethical and sustainable tourism
Altezza Travel is a certified B Corporation and a Travelife Certified operator, demonstrating its commitment to ethical business practices and sustainability.
The company adheres to fair labour standards, prioritising staff welfare and environmental conservation.
Company’s marketing and sales executive, Ms Joyce Kimaro said supporting a fully female expedition team not only promotes gender equality but also contributes to sustainable, locally driven tourism that benefits Tanzanian communities.
“By empowering women in the mountain tourism industry, Altezza Travel strengthens the social and economic fabric of the region,” she said.
“Our operations have a positive impact on both the people and the environment of Tanzania. Empowering women in the local community and offering authentic, supportive experiences for travellers remains at the heart of what we do,” she added.
A landmark moment for Tanzanian tourism
The launch of monthly all-female Kilimanjaro climbs marks a significant step towards gender equality in Tanzania’s mountain industry.
It is an initiative that will empower women climbers and help reshape the future of mountaineering, making it more inclusive for all.
“Mount Kilimanjaro, renowned worldwide for its breathtaking vistas and natural beauty, will now become an even more welcoming destination for women adventurers from Tanzania and beyond,” said Ms Kimaro, adding.
“With an all-female support team ensuring a nurturing environment, Altezza Travel’s initiative invites women to embrace the challenge and glory of Africa’s highest free-standing mountain.”
Furthermore, she said as Tanzania continues to position itself as a leading destination for adventure tourism, projects like Altezza’s all-female climbs reflect a progressive and inclusive future, one where empowerment, sustainability, and community go hand in hand.
