Geography
Kilimanjaro is the highest mountain in Africa, standing at 5,895 metres high, and is located in the North Eastern part of Tanzania. It is part of the Kilimanjaro National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and is considered part of the Eastern Arc Mountains. It is composed of three distinct volcanic cones: Kibo, Mawenzi and Shira. Kilimanjaro is the only mountain in the world that has glaciers on its summit and near its base.
History
Kilimanjaro has a fascinating history and has attracted many adventurers and mountaineers over the centuries. Its original inhabitants were the Chagga people, who still live in the area and can be seen farming the fertile land around the mountain. The mountain’s topography consists of five distinct vegetation zones, ranging from lush rainforest in the base to humid alpine desert at the summit.
Climbing
Climbing Kilimanjaro has become increasingly popular in recent years. Although there are several routes, the Marangu Route is the most commonly used due to its relatively easy ascent and descent. It typically takes up to five days to scale the mountain, but some climbers manage to do it in three days depending on the route and weather conditions. The trek is made challenging by the unpredictable altitude gain and can be both physically and mentally demanding for anyone who chooses to attempt it.
Wildlife and Ecology
Kilimanjaro is home to an astonishing range of wildlife, including elephants, buffaloes, hyena, leopards, black-and-white colobus monkeys and various species of birds. It is also a key habitat for various species of plants, with recently discovered species such as the giant lobelia and giant heather. The mountain’s environment is protected by the Kilimanjaro National Park, which was established in 1973 and exports revenue from climbers and tourists to help fund conservation initiatives across Tanzania.
Cultural Significance
Kilimanjaro is revered as a sacred mountain by many. It is said to be the home of the Chagga god of rain, Omumborombonga, and believed to be haunted by the ghosts of ancient kings and warriors. According to legend, anyone who attempted to climb to the summit of the mountain will be blessed with good luck, fertility and wisdom.
Economy
Kilimanjaro’s popularity as a tourist attraction has created a lucrative industry in and around the mountain. The mountain attracts thousands of visitors each year, boosting the local economy and providing jobs for guides, porters, cooks and other support staff. Tourism also provides a much-needed source of revenue for conservation efforts in the region.
Climate and Weather
Kilimanjaro experiences a wide variety of weather conditions. At lower altitudes, temperatures remain relatively moderate and feature high humidity, while higher altitudes experience colder temperatures and strong winds due to the mountain’s elevation. The weather can vary dramatically so it is important to be prepared for the conditions when planning to climb Kilimanjaro, particularly during the rainy seasons (April to June and November to December).
Science and Research
Kilimanjaro’s environment is being monitored and studied extensively by researchers from all over the world. Scientists are studying changes to the mountain’s glaciers and vegetation over time to gain insights into the impact rising temperatures have had on the area. Research also focuses on the possible ways of protecting and restoring key elements of the mountain’s delicate ecology.
Environmental Effects
Reforestation initiatives are underway to help protect Kilimanjaro’s diverse ecosystems. The government has invested in efforts to protect and regenerate forests, threatened bird species and amphibians. This is important for the long-term health of the Kilimanjaro National Park, ensuring its rich biodiversity is safe for future generations.
Geology
Kilimanjaro’s geology is complex, with a rich variety of rock types and minerals from many different past volcanic activity. Since the mountain is so rich in mineralogy, it has been studied extensively by geologists and this has resulted in many important discoveries that have helped shed light on the origin and evolution of the mountain’s environment.
Routes
There are several routes to Kilimanjaro, ranging from long and arduous treks to shorter, easier hikes. The Machame Route, also known as the “Whiskey Route”, is regarded as the best route to use if you are looking for a challenging but rewarding experience. The Northern Circuit Route is another popular route, being less crowded with stunning scenery and vast views. Meanwhile, the Rongai Route is the easiest route, providing a relatively comfortable journey for the everyday traveller.
