About Kilibound Adventures

From Summit to Savannah

Where African Wilderness Meets Family Passion

Kilibound Adventures was born over a decade ago from an unlikely friendship between two explorers: James McCune, an American attorney and avid climber from St. Augustine, Florida, and Gideon Phanuel, a legendary Tanzanian mountain guide with over 600 Kilimanjaro summits to his name. What began as a shared trek up Africa’s highest peak evolved into a company built on trust, authenticity, and a deep love for the mountains and wilderness of East Africa. Today, Kilibound Adventures is a leading Kilimanjaro trekking and wildlife safari operator, locally based in Tanzania and the USA. We specialize in luxury, personalized adventures that combine the thrill of conquering Mount Kilimanjaro with the magic of Tanzania’s legendary safari destinations — including Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire, and Lake Manyara. Our journeys extend even further, offering gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda, Mount Kenya expeditions, and relaxing Zanzibar beach holidays as trip extensions.

Authentic Adventures, Exceptional Experiences

We believe extraordinary trips come from deep local knowledge and genuine care. Gideon Phanuel is a Tanzanian mountain guru with 600+ Kilimanjaro summits, certified guide credentials, and wilderness first-responder training. James McCune — an experienced climber and longtime partner — brings international perspective and guest-focused service. Together they shaped Kilibound into a company that prioritizes safety, personalized service, and meaningful experiences. Whether it’s a family Kilimanjaro climb, a beginner-friendly route, or a tailored luxury safari, every itinerary is crafted with precision and heart.

Tourism with Purpose: Caring for Communities and Nature

Kilibound Adventures is committed to tourism that benefits people and the planet. Our ethical policy includes fair treatment and proper compensation for porters and support staff, partnerships with local communities, and responsible practices that reduce environmental impact. We design trips that leave positive social and ecological footprints while protecting the landscapes and wildlife that make East Africa world-famous.

Meet the Founders

James McCune

An avid mountaineer and attorney from St. Augustine, Florida, James first met Gideon on a Kilimanjaro expedition. Their friendship and shared passion for exploration led to the creation of Kilibound Adventures. James brings an international perspective, guiding trip planning, guest relations, and luxury experiences that combine adventure with comfort.

Gideon Phanuel

Born and raised on the slopes of Mount Meru, Gideon is a certified professional climbing guide with over 600 successful Kilimanjaro summits. With wilderness first-responder training and years of guiding experience, Gideon leads every climb with safety, care, and heart, ensuring every guest enjoys a memorable and life-changing experience.

Why Travel with Us?

Certified Expert Guides

All guiding staff are trained in mountain safety and wilderness first aid; Gideon himself has led hundreds of successful climbs.

Well-Established Founders

Co-founded over a decade ago by Gideon Phanuel and James McCune, built from shared experience on Kilimanjaro and a love for East Africa.

Locally Rooted & International

Based in Tanzania with operations and support in St. Augustine, Florida — the best of local knowledge plus international service.

Safety & Comfort on the Mountain

Private toilet options and portable showers available; safety-first protocols for all treks.

Ethical Kilimanjaro Climbs

We prioritize fair treatment of porters, transparent pricing, and safe working conditions.

Custom & Combined Itineraries

Seamlessly combine Kilimanjaro climbs with multi-day safaris, gorilla trekking, Mount Kenya, or Zanzibar escapes.

Special Pricing & Group Options

Family, honeymoon, student, and group packages available to make adventures accessible.

Growing Reputation

Guests consistently praise our personal touch, expert guiding, and carefully planned routes.

Our Services

Kilibound Adventures: At Your Service

Welcome to Kilibound Adventures — a family-minded team of guides, mountaineers, and safari experts committed to showing you East Africa the way locals do: safely, respectfully, and memorably. From your first inquiry to your final departure, we handle logistics, safety, and hospitality so you can focus on the experience. Our Mission: To deliver safe, ethical, and life-changing Kilimanjaro trekking and safari experiences while supporting local communities and protecting East Africa’s natural heritage. Ready to begin? Come as a guest. Leave as family. Contact us today to start planning your Kilimanjaro climb or Tanzania safari.

The Crew Behind the Adventure

Every great journey begins with a fearless team. At Kilibound Adventures, our guides don’t just lead — they inspire. From high-altitude legends who have summited Kilimanjaro hundreds of times to safari masters who know every trail of the Serengeti, our crew is built for adventure.

James McCune

Co-Founder & Expedition Partner

Gideon Phanuel

Co-Founder &Head Guide

Our Guides — The Heart of Every Journey

A great adventure is defined not only by the destination, but by the people who lead the way. At Kilibound Adventures, our guides are more than professionals — they are storytellers, wildlife experts, safety guardians, and lifelong friends in the making. Each guide undergoes continuous training in customer care, safety protocols, wilderness first aid, and ethical guiding practices to ensure every journey is conducted with excellence.They are fluent English speakers, with many also speaking French, German, Spanish, and Italian, allowing guests from around the world to feel at home in the African wilderness.
Benjamin Kilibound Adventures
  • Comprehensive pre-trip briefings to prepare you for every stage of your adventure

  • Expert wildlife tracking and interpretation during game drives and walking safaris

  • Deep knowledge of local culture, ecosystems, and animal behavior across national parks

  • Professional operation of custom safari and trekking vehicles designed for comfort and safety

  • Friendly, patient, and highly attentive — ensuring every question is answered and every moment is meaningful

Our Safari Fleet

Your journey is only as good as the vehicle that carries you — and at Kilibound Adventures, we don’t compromise. Our safari fleet consists of custom-built 4x4 Toyota Land Cruisers, fully equipped for adventure and comfort. :
Game Drive

Pop-up roofs for 360° wildlife viewing

Individual window seats for every guest

Inverter & charging ports for cameras and phones

Onboard fridge or cooler stocked with water and refreshments

Suspension-enhanced seating for smooth rides on rough terrain

First-aid kits & safety equipment onboard