Client Care
Mountain Madness recognizes that our clients are the ones that allow us to keep doing what we love, professionally. Because of that, your business is important to us and we want to ensure that every aspect of your Mountain Madness experience is an enjoyable one. Not only does Mountain Madness have experts in the regions that our client's travel, but we also have a US contact who is here to answer all of your questions. Long before a client's trip departs, Mountain Madness' in-office Area Specialists are preparing for their arrival. All of the logistics for a smooth trip, down to the smallest of details, have been checked, double-checked and confirmed. Whether its equipment questions, training suggestions, recommendations for trip extensions or assistance with travel plans, our Area Specialists' expertise lies in knowing the activities and regions we explore.

World Class Guides and Staff
We believe that our incredible guides and staff are the foundation of our programs. All of our guides are highly skilled professionals who have been selected based on their technical proficiency, proven safety records, careful judgment, patient and supportive teaching styles and great personalities. At a minimum, all of our guides hold current Wilderness First Responder certification and are proficient in technical rescue and evacuation skills. Our guides are dedicated to the world of alpinism, many having first ascents and successful summits on major peaks in the Cascades all the way to Mount Everest. In addition to their impressive personal achievements in the field, Mountain Madness guides bring a wealth of natural history, cultural anthropology and linguistic knowledge for their group's enlightenment. All of our guides and staff surpass the needs of our clientele and make their trip enjoyable beyond expectations. We celebrate the relationships with our overseas operators that are built on camaraderie and trust. In short, we provide the most experienced and dedicated guides, high altitude Sherpas, reliable porters and staff for all of our trips.

American Mountain Guides Association (AMGA) Accreditation

Mountain Madness is one of few companies with accreditation status. The American Mountain Guides Association accreditation program was developed for guiding programs, schools and services to ensure the highest quality service available. The accreditation program is a voluntary means of quality assurance and peer evaluation focusing on international standards for guided climbing, mountaineering, and skiing. Accreditation examines such things as operating guidelines, access, permits, insurance, employment and business practices, and guide training. It constitutes a general business review. Accreditation provides a consistent and meaningful standard by which to judge the reliability and professionalism of a climbing service. It advises the general public and land managers that a program utilizes guides who are certified and that all guides in the program have received formal training appropriate to the terrain they guide.


The AMGA accreditation program relies on experienced based guides trained, supervised, and mentored by AMGA certified guides. The accreditation program was developed by professional guides and climbing instructors who are leaders in the outdoor industry. The Accreditation Committee oversees the program and is made up of AMGA certified guides in the Rock, Alpine, and Ski disciplines

Certification in specific disciplines by the AMGA is the international standard for individual guides. The AMGA is the Untied States only organization to offer a comprehensive training and certification program for mountain guides that is recognized by the International Federation of Mountain Guides Associations (IFMGA). The accreditation program promotes certification within accredited programs through mentoring, training, supervision, and financial support for the individual guide seeking certification.


Pricing
In an effort to minimize your in-country expenses on international trips, Mountain Madness has increased the services we include in the land costs. You can eat to your hearts content and not have to worry about reaching for your wallet-all restaurant meals are included, unless otherwise noted. And with the exception of Aconcagua, porter support is included on all South American adventures. Land costs include all hotel and camping expenses, staff and guide services, group gear, in-country airport transfers, as well as all scheduled activities during your trip (museum visits, city tours, etc). These and other additional inclusions eliminates the "hidden costs" often associated with many expeditions and the frustration felt from spending more than you had budgeted for in-country expenses.

On our Northwest Climbing Courses and Classic Summit Climbs, you will find that we provide many of the extra-cost items normally associated with climbing trips and courses. Our trip prices include ground transportation, eliminating the need to rent a vehicle, and assures that everyone in your group arrives at the right place and on time. Additionally, Mountain Madness provides the food for all of your meals on the mountain, eliminating the need to pre-plan, purchase, and package food. We also provide the highest quality tents and cooking equipment; eliminating a major expense and allowing you to try before you buy.


More Than 20 Years Route Experience
For more than 20 years Mountain Madness has been combining the physical challenge of climbing and trekking with the cultural and aesthetic experiences of the last wild places on earth. During that time we have built strong relationships with local government agencies and the very best oversea operators. This continued relationship has allowed us to build upon a standard of excellence, giving our clients the consistency they deserve year after year. Together we have pioneered the safest, most scenic and comfortable routes, scouted for those perfect campsites, and discovered the best of what's off the beaten track.

Traveling Safely and Ethically
Your safety and comfort are tremendously important to us. That is why we maintain the highest quality of service possible, from carefully designing itineraries for proper acclimatization, to upholding the most scrupulous sanitary standards while preparing and cooking meals. Our guides are trained for backcountry emergencies, educated in altitude sickness and well versed in the politics, cultural considerations and customs surrounding their region of travel. As guests to the areas we encounter, Mountain Madness recognizes the magnitude of our environmental and cultural impact. It is therefore extremely important that our groups adhere to the "Leave No Trace" travel and camping techniques in passing through local and foreign lands. We endeavor to be role models for those around us and hope that our travels contribute to awareness and change needed for reducing the impact of future tourism.

Fabulous Cuisine
All of our meals, whether in the Northwest or the Khumbu Valley, are a combination of the best local and regional fares. Our guides and cooks are renowned for their culinary masterpieces and are happy to accommodate dietary restrictions and/or allergies. And when we stay in major towns, groups sample regional dishes in the local restaurants. Good ingredients mean nothing without careful preparation so ensuring safe food preparation on our trips is paramount to Mountain Madness.

Customized Itineraries to Meet Your Goals
Mountain Madness is more than happy to custom design a trip or course to meet your goals. Whether it's trekking the Himalayas, climbing Aconcagua or the Seven Summits, Mountain Madness takes you to the pinnacle of your dreams! If you have an extension to an existing trip in mind, would like to travel with a private group, or if your schedule requires specific dates that we presently do not offer, we will do our best to Make It Happen. Our trips and courses are designed to safely bring the beauty and excitement of adventure to those who pursue it. All of our trips are carefully planned to ensure proper acclimatization, maximum comfort, and nutritious gourmet meals. Mountain Madness maintains the vision of achieving serious, high quality guiding and instruction while having the most fun possible.

Commitment to Others
In addition to helping individuals reach their goals, we have also continued with Scott's fundraising activities with efforts in both Bolivia, Ecuador, and Africa for CARE, Climb for New Schools on Mt. Baker to raise funds to build new schools in rural areas of Nepal, as well as involvement in Russia with Klimb for Kids, an organization that provides assistance to orphanages worldwide.

Mountain Madness has continued to expand its commitment to others in the mountaineering arena. It continues to partner with non-profit organizations to raise funds for AIDS research, Save the Children, Books for Tibet, Room to Read, as well as sponsoring clean-up expeditions that cleared debris from some of the world’s most famous mountains, including Everest. It also announced a partnership with The John Stanford Elementary School, in Seattle, Washington and its partner elementary school in Arusha, Tanzania (at the base of Kilimanjaro) to help facilitate the exchange of international learning.

In 2004 Mountain Madness acted as lead partner with IMEC (International Mountain Explorers Connection) to launch and promote worldwide porter guidelines to ensure adequate porter treatment. This joint effort, launched under the Porter Assistance Project, is aimed at helping adventure travel companies embrace official porter treatment guidelines, educate travelers on how to be more socially responsible and provide resources to equip porters with adequate education, clothing and shelter.
 

References
Mountain Madness would be more than happy to supply you with a list of references from clients who have participated in one or more of our adventures. Please contact us at 800-328-5925 for more information.

 

Hear What Some of Our Previous Clients Have to Say:

 

This was truly a wonderfully well run, led and conceived trip. Our guides were always on the same page, communicated well and seemed thrilled to be there. Great job! Of particular note were the learning and skill building portions of the trip. These stretched all of us and added strong new elements to our climbing skills. Thanks to Mountain Madness for a stellar combination of great guides, great climbing objectives and excellent support.
Tom Dougherty, Illimani 

Both the climb and the safari were very well organized. The meals on both were outstanding. I believe that the thorough planning in which we were allowed time for adequate acclimatization and your excellent guides were the reason we all made it to the summit and also felt good enough to really enjoy it. The route we used was excellent for the view and kept us away from the crowds.
Ronald and Norma Wright, Kilimanjaro Climb and Safari

An experience for a lifetime. Could not have been safer, more pleasantly managed or competently executed in every detail.
David Cameron, Kilimanjaro 

I was thoroughly satisfied with the pre-trip help, the intensity and completeness of instruction and the instructor himself. Thanks a million.
David Wakefield Northwest Custom Trip 

 I came with almost no technical climbing experience and I wanted a thorough grounding in all aspects of mountaineering: camping, route finding, weather/avalanche, rock/snow/ice/glacier techniques and so on. A lot to ask from one course? Yes, but I got it. We covered an astonishing amount and I feel confident now that I can head out on my own. Thanks!
Julian Jamison, 13 Day Alpine Climbing Course

Thanks again for recommending this trek/climb.  Though tiring, it was a great adventure,  Shy did an excellent job of organizing the adventure and in keeping the challenges there, but also in pacing the trip and making the realized goals achievable.
William Westphal, Blanca Adventure Trek & Climb

I recommend Mountain Madness' Inca Trail trip to anyone who wants to escape from hum-drum of everyday life and embark on an adventure that is rich in culture and rewarding in physical activity. As usual, Mountain Madness did a very good job.  Excellent organization. I do look forward to doing another adventure through Mountain Madness.
Joe Feltes, Inca Trail

I just wanted to send you a letter thanking you for the wonderful experience I had on the Inca Trail.  A large part of that is due to Shy. In the past, I have gone on various climbs / treks with other companies and none have been better than Shy.  He always kept the group loose and motivated. He and Mario made a wonderful team.  Shy, with his upbeat personality and experience, and Mario, with his expertise on the Inca culture, made a great 1-2 punch. Anyway, once again, I would like to thank you (and especially Shy) for the fantastic trip I had on the Inca Trail.
Kyle Swayze, Inca Trail

The trip was good fun- nothing like skiing 3,000' of beautiful vert. on the 4th of July!!
Michael Bosworth, Elbrus Ski

Fantastic trip.  Will recommend to anyone considering a Kilimanjaro climb.
Mike Nutter, Kilimanjaro

Even better than I expected or hoped for!
Dan Lange, Kilimanjaro climb and safari

Our Kilimanjaro trip was very enjoyable and could not have been better.  Everyone, the trip leader, guides, cooks, and porters were all very friendly and helpful.  The equipment was first rate and the food was excellent.
Danny Puett, Kilimanjaro

It was a pure experience, and I see no need for change.  It’s not a trip for sissies!!  (joke)!
I really didn’t know what to expect.  The reality is: I miss all of the people I was with, I miss Nepal, and the experience far exceeded my expectations.  It was difficult, but I look forward to a new adventure.  Bravo to Mountain Madness!
Eric I. Hiller Everest Support Trek

At the time I had no experience to base the Mt Baker trip on so I had no expectations.  Reflecting back, I’m totally fulfilled and can’t wait to do it again.  Jason was a great guide!  Mountain Madness is a superb operation!
Orland Woodard, Mt. Baker

I had a great trip, learned many new skills, and have already been out a few times since the trip putting them to use.
Todd Degreen, 8 day alpine climbing course

The Alpine Ice Course was exceptional.  The skills taught and applied throughout the week open the door for knowledgeable, safe climbing in the alpine environment.  We summited the north ridge of Baker on a beautiful day and it was such a challenge on varied terrain.  An unforgettable experience.
Mark Bly, Alpine Ice Course

We completed all training aspects this trip has to offer, with the added bonus of summiting the mountain.  I couldn’t have asked for more.
Tami Tucker,Glacier Mountaineering School

This was my first trip of this kind, but I can’t imagine having a better time on a trip.  The food, the instruction, the group gear, the location, the hike, the summit were all beyond my expectations.  I have to give most credit to Ted.  He did an amazing job not only as a guide, but as an instructor.  I wish he guided on Denali. 
Christopher A. Hills, Glacier Mountaineering Course

Overall great experience.  The teaching was good and the guides were great.  I felt very comfortable with them and felt that they really knew their stuff.
Mario Taffera, Ski Mountaineering

As a first time mountain climber and international traveler, I didn’t know what to expect.  The trip exceeded my expectations in every aspect.  The guides, the people, the food, the accommodations, the culture and luckily the weather.  A truly memorable experience and one I will look back on for years to come. 
Ryan O’Neill, Ecuador Mountaineering School

Oswaldo, his wife, Zoe, and the assistants make every effort to ensure their client’s comfort.  On the mountain their main concern is everyone’s safety.  Their second concern is that it’s fun for the client and that they enjoy the climb.  Their attitude is that they are there to serve you and they will do whatever it takes.  I had the time of my life in Ecuador.  I highly recommend it to every aspiring climber. 
Chris Zahn, Ecuador Mountaineering School

Best thing I ever did for myself!  I’m hooked forever!  Thank you for an outrageous experience!
Joey McCune, Bolivia

The course was great.  I learned a lot of new skills and refined some I already knew.  Definitely made me a better climber.
Keith Sellers, Glacier Mountaineering Course

Mt. Madness exceeded all expectations.  While the weather didn’t allow for a summit we still had a wonderful time and can’t wait to try again.
Rebekan Bromberg, Mt. Baker

The guides at Mountain Madness did a particularly great job in identifying the group’s learning goals, experience, and potential, then tailored our experience to create the best possible outcome in a safe, challenging & appropriate climb that resulted in an amazing experience.
Justin Wood, Beyond Basic

A great trip w/an awesome outfit.  I would not hesitate to recommend Mtn.Madness to any client.  I will be using your highly skilled, qualified services again.  Thanks to Matt and Shane for a very enjoyable trip.
John Spry, Mt. Baker Ski Descent

Terrific Trip!!  These words summarize the Mountain Madness experience on my recent trek to the summit of Mt. Kilimanjaro, as well as, safari to Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater.
Joseph P. Longosz, Kilimanjaro

You made us fall in love with Tanzania
Bruce Hamilton, Kilimanjaro/Serengeti

Fantastic!  Seriously wouldn’t change anything!  You made my dream of climbing Kili come true!
Cheryl Marfia & Michael Marfia, Kilimanjaro

Fantastic experience from start to finish.
Paul Weissman, Kilimanjaro

It was the trip of a lifetime. 
Michael E. Karby, Kilimanjaro climb and safari

Each part of the operation exceeded my expectations.  The entire team of porters, guides, cooks, etc. did a great job of anticipating our needs. 
Chris Fraser, Kilimanjaro climb/trek

A great trip – 100% success rate.  Lots of fun.  I was very comfortable with the guides/staff.  I also felt well taken care of and safe at all times.
Keith Serdman, Kilimanjaro Climb/Safari

A memorable trip – I felt that I was able in 2 weeks’ time to experience not only the environment but the culture of Tanzania – the leadership was of such high quality.  I left wanting to return soon again.
Diana Wolf, Kilimanjaro climb and safari

Great trip, loved the mountain.  Crew were excellent and made trip a real treat.Awesome trip all around. Christopher Brown, Elbrus

Kudos to Shy/Ossy/Gaspar!!!  They are the best.  Chopi summit at dawn w/a full moon setting over Huascaran was unbelievable and truly magical.
Mark Payne, Pisco/Chopi

My children left Mt. Baker having “touched the sky”, surprised themselves in their abilities and grew richer in their appreciation in the gift of life.
Ben Johnson, Mt. Baker

Climb and safari were both excellent.  I would not hesitate to recommend this trip to anyone.
Don Flood, Kilimanjaro climb and safari

I was impressed by the excellent organization, professionalism, & attention to safety of the guides.  The trip was excellent & Mountain Madness exceeded what I expected from this trip.
Valerie Potenza, Kilimanjaro climb and safari

Outstanding, memorable trip!  MM was well organized and I appreciated the close attention to everyone’s safety and well-being. 
Stu Rosenberg, Kilimanjaro climb and safari

I had a fantastic experience.  The trek was a great experience made even better by the friendly, professional staff in Tanzania.  The trip leader made us all feel safe and comfortable throughout the trip.  The food was great, too!  Best of all, Mountain Madness attracted a terrific group of hikers that made the trip tons of fun.
Karen Kenney, Kilimanjaro

This trip surpassed my expectations especially in terms of the food, friendliness of office when I called, & first rate teaching ability & knowledge of the guide.  I recommend it highly and without hesitation.
Cathleen Graham, 8 Day alpine & glacier skills

I can’t wait to climb with Mountain Madness again.  Overall, great guides, great food and a totally awesome adventure!  I highly recommend the Mt.Baker climb to anyone who is interested in testing themselves, while climbing a volcanic environment that stimulates all senses.  This trip will make you come for more climbs offered by the professional crew of Mountain Madness. I’m one happy camper!
Askold (Oskar) Kobasa, Mt. Baker