Introduction
At Footprint Adventure, we are committed to sustainability and responsible tourism. We recognize the role in preserving our pristine environment, while exploring and supporting the local communities that live there. Our dedication to sustainability is closely tied to the well-being of our guides and porters, who are essential for providing exceptional experiences to our clients and are integral members of these communities.
We understand the unique challenges these individuals face in the demanding Himalayan environment and the lack of income during the off-season. Guides and porters often endure harsh weather, rugged terrain, and physically demanding tasks. They spend a long period away from their families while carrying heavy loads at high altitudes. Despite their vital contributions, many lack proper equipment, receive low wages, and work in poor conditions.
To address these challenges, we have implemented a comprehensive trekking staff welfare policy. This policy encompasses our trekking guide benefits and porter policy, ensuring fair treatment for all team members. We are dedicated to creating a supportive and fair work environment for our guides and porters. By prioritizing their well-being, we improve their quality of life and ensure they can provide safe, enriching, and memorable trekking experiences.
Our commitment is reflected in our efforts to meet their needs and concerns, striving to create a work environment that is fair and respectful. This approach not only benefits our team but also supports the sustainable development of the regions we operate in, aligning with our broader sustainability goals.
Proper equipment and gear
At Footprint Adventure, we provide each team member with high-quality t-shirts, caps, and jackets for comfort and protection in various weather conditions. As part of our comprehensive safety protocols we equip them with first aid kits to ensure their well-being during treks. Additionally, our guides or a porter use "Carry Me" bags from Footprint Adventure, specifically designed for collecting and managing waste in the Himalayas. This initiative keeps trekking routes clean and demonstrates our commitment to sustainability.
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Wages and compensation
Our porters, guides, and crew members are remunerated more than the government's minimum wage and higher than what most other trekking companies offer. We set our pay scales to exceed the market standard, ensuring our team receives fair wages that reflect their hard work and expertise. This approach helps us attract and keep the best people, providing better service for our clients. We regularly review and adjust our pay rates to stay competitive and show our team how much we value their skills and dedication.
Weight Limits
We implement strict weight limits for porters to ensure their safety and well-being. Each porter carries a maximum of 25 kg (55 lbs), which includes 12 kg (26 lbs) per trekker, with one porter assigned to carry for two persons. During the pre-trek briefing, we advise clients to pack only essential trekking items, ensuring each person's load does not exceed 12 kg (26 lbs). These weight limits for porters prioritize their well-being and safety, allowing them to fulfill their duties effectively while minimizing physical strain.
Insurance and medical coverage
We prioritize the safety and well-being of our guides and porters by providing them with comprehensive insurance coverage. Each guide and porter receives yearly insurance coverage of 15 lakhs, which includes provisions for helicopter rescues, emergency medical evacuations, and medical treatments. This coverage ensures that our team members receive full support in case of any unforeseen emergencies during treks. Additionally, our insurance covers accidental injuries, illness, and other medical expenses that may occur while on duty.
Accommodation and food during treks
Our company ensures that all trekking staff receive comfortable accommodation and quality food throughout the journey. We provide three nutritious meals daily—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—to our crew members. Accommodation during the trek typically consists of tea houses or guesthouses in mountainous regions, offering necessary amenities for a restful stay. Importantly, we uphold principles of equality, providing equal facilities to all trekking staff regardless of race, caste, or cultural background.
Professional Development
Regarding professional development, we prioritize training and skill development for guides and porters as part of our comprehensive employee support program. Guides receive regular first aid training, which equips them not only to assist clients but also to handle high-altitude emergencies effectively. Additionally, we provide language training, rescue and evacuation training, and mobile app training that aids in navigation and communication during treks. Sustainability courses are also offered to ensure our team is well-versed in responsible tourism practices. This robust employee support program enhances our staff's capabilities and contributes to their overall professional growth and job satisfaction.
Health and safety measures
Our commitment to crew well-being goes beyond basic precautions. We have a comprehensive safety program that includes regular health check-ups, advanced wilderness first aid training for our guides, and a strong buddy system where everyone looks out for each other. Our health care protocols for guide and porters encompass providing high-quality safety gear and ensuring no one carries too much. We have clear emergency protocols and routinely check our equipment. Additionally, we prioritize nutrition and ensure everyone gets adequate rest during the trek, creating a secure environment that allows everyone to enjoy the adventure with peace of mind.
Awards
We award the “ Best Guide” based on their teamwork, client reviews, sustainability practices, leadership skills and their skill in taking care of clients. This award honor guides who excel in delivering excellent trekking experiences, focusing on professionalism and customer satisfaction. By valuing these qualities, we encourage our guides to continue in providing memorable adventures and uphold high standards of service and environmental responsibility.
Preference
We prioritize guides with profound local knowledge and support local porters from diverse groups across all treks, without any discrimination. Our selection criteria emphasize expertise and deep understanding of the terrain, ensuring our team members contribute effectively to the trekking experience. By prioritizing local expertise, we not only enhance the authenticity of our journeys but also foster sustainable tourism practices that benefit the local communities economically and culturally.
Environmental Responsibility
We expect our guides and porters to commit to promoting sustainable and responsible tourism practices. This includes actively supporting local communities, using "Carry Me" bags for responsible waste disposal, and minimizing our environmental footprint by sticking to designated paths and avoiding non-biodegradable materials.
