Frumence Michael Malya

I did Kilimanjaro over 6 days and safari over 4 days with Joining. My group of 6 was made to feel really genuinely respected and welcome from the get-go. Erick was very hands on; available to chat on WhatsApp any time and even inviting us for a feast at his house with the crew after the trek. Our Kili guides were Andronus, Amedeus, and Frumence, and we had 15 other wonderful crew members. Although the mountain was far from luxury, small touches by the crew went a long way, such as tea at the summit, playing cards with us at night, and singing as we climbed. I was particularly grateful to our guides for carrying our packs on summit day when we began to really struggle. After submitting one day early, Frumence was great in communicating our decision whether to stay on the mountain an extra day or organise a free night at a hotel (which we couldn't pass up!). Our safari in Tarangire, Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater was brilliant, and we were fortunately able to see the 'big five'. Our guide Emmaneul was extremely knowledgeable and good-humoured, skillfully balancing accommodating our requests with being safe and efficient on the parks. Our chef Yona was with us for both trips, and was always looking for feedback and requests. He did a very impressive job of providing two course feasts all the way up the mountain! All in all, I'd advise anyone considering a tour with Joining to lean into the experience by really trying to get to know the team, saying yes to opportunities and opening your minds to the crew culture, especially on the mountain. Thank you Joining for the adventure of a lifetime!

correspondence prior to our trip was great and Winner helped us to book a coach ticket - an added extra which was much appreciated. We joined another group, which I think allowed greater flexibility to meet our requirements. Prosper was a great, safe taxi driver. Our safari guide Emmanuel was extremely friendly and helpful; he’s got a very warm and welcoming nature. Baraka the chef was great too and we saw everything we could have hoped for whilst on safari. Frumence took us for a day trek on kili and was kind enough to lend us jackets and was very encouraging and supportive along the way. We had an incredible, not to be missed time with Joining safaris. One tip - camping can be very chilly, take lots of layers and even a hot water bottle! Ngorongoro was amazing, definitely a favourite!