The Majestic Mount Kilimanjaro
The world’s tallest free-standing mountain, and the tallest mountain in Africa, Mt. Kilimanjaro is one of Tanzania’s greatest sights. Its peak - permanently capped with ice - stands at a staggering 19,341 feet above sea level, with the clouds seeming like nothing more than a soft ribbon drifting across the great mountain.
Unlike most of the world’s highest summits, Kilimanjaro is not part of a wide mountain range, rather it is made up of three volcanic cones, forming its distinctive circular summit and steep sides, surrounded by vast, flat plains.
The mountain’s slopes dominate every aspect of life, from the weather to the plant life around it. This region of Africa is famed for its wide open, arid plains, but those surrounding Kilimanjaro are somewhat different - with increased rainfall the plains are home to much more life, including huge aggregations of flamingos, baboons and The Big Five.
When the flat plains turn into gentle slopes, the nutrient-rich soils produce some of the world’s most delicious coffee, Northern Tanzania’s largest export.
Whilst climbing this natural giant may not be on your priority list, the breathtaking vistas it creates across Northern Tanzania will create memories you will hold dear your whole life. Its beauty is as remarkable as the awe-inspiring animals you witness whilst on safari in the nearby Ngorongoro Crater and Lake Manyara. A tour to Tanzania offers so much and will give you many memories and a camera packed full of stunning photos.
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Article published on: 16th July, 2015
Jenny
Jenny’s passion for culture and wildlife has taken her across the world. Favourite experiences so far have included snorkelling at the Great Barrier Reef, sailing on the Ganges in Varanasi, hiking through Norway and spending many hours on safari in Kenya and India spotting a menagerie of wonderful creatures.You might also like to read
