Mountain Profile
Mount Kilimanjaro, located in Tanzania, Africa is a mountain that has captivated adventurers from around the world. It is one of the highest peaks in the world, with a height of 5,895 meters (19,341 feet). In addition, it is the tallest free-standing mountain, meaning that it is not part of a mountain range like so many others. It consists of three volcanic cones known as Kibo, Mawenzi, and Shira. The Kibo cone is dormant, while Mawenzi and Shira are extinct.
Kilimanjaro is the only mountain located on the African continent that is over 4,900 meters high (16,000 feet). The mountain has three major zones: the lower montane rainforest, the alpine desert, and the summit zone, with only the upper portion containing an active glacier.
Geology of the Mountain
Mount Kilimanjaro is composed of three volcanic cones; Kibo, Mawenzi, and Shira. Kibo, the highest cone is dormant, however, Mawenzi and Shira are extinct. Geologically, Kilimanjaro is caused by the tectonic movement of the African plate, forming a large dome known as the East African Rift. This rift formed mountains, including Kilimanjaro which is made up of basalt, breccia, and tuffs that were formed as a result of molten rocks being ejected from the volcano’s crater.
The formation of Kilimanjaro began approximately 1 million years ago. A geomorphological study of the mountain revealed at least seven growth-eruption cycles, five of which occurred between 600,000 and 750,000 years ago, while the two later ones occurred between 60,000 and 100,000 years ago and around 11,700 years ago.
Elevation
Mount Kilimanjaro is the highest mountain in Africa, at 19,341 feet (5,895 meters). The summit of Kibo crater on Kilimanjaro is the highest point in all of Africa, but Mount Kenya is the second highest mountain on the continent. The Kilimanjaro massif itself stands 4,885 meters (16,099 feet) above sea level and is over 500,000 square kilometers. It is the fourth highest mountain in the world, with only Mount Everest, the Aconcagua, and the Vinson Massif being higher.
Kilimanjaro is home to five of Africa’s major peaks, with Kibo and Mawenzi being the highest. Kibo is the highest peak at 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) while Mawenzi stands at 5,149 meters (16,896 feet). Kilimanjaro is composed of three cones: Kibo, Mawenzi and Shira, with Kibo being the most popular among the three. The summit of Kibo has two peaks, Western and Eastern Kibo, the latter of which is the highest point.
Sources of Information
The elevation of Kilimanjaro is obtained from several sources, including GPS data, topographic maps, and satellite imagery. GPS technology provides the most reliable information, due to its accuracy. Other useful sources of data are the Global Positioning System (GPS) and radar altimetry. The use of topographic maps is helpful in obtaining data on the elevation of surface features, while satellite imagery serves as another useful source.
In addition to these sources, Kilimanjaro National Parks (KNP) is a key source of information on the elevation of the mountain. The park stores information about the height of the peak and its terrain. The park also provides data on the locations of rivers and other surface features. KNP is also the main repository of data on vegetation, including trees and other vegetation, which is essential for understanding the ecology of the mountain.
Effects of Climate Change
Climate change has been impacting the ecology of Kilimanjaro with glaciers melting away at an alarming rate. The research findings on Kilimanjaro’s glaciers in 2018 revealed that the area of the glaciers had shrunk to only two-thirds of what it was in 1912. The melting of the glaciers is attributed to global warming, which is thought to be responsible for the rise in temperature in the area. In addition, the glacial recession has been accelerated by human activities, such as the cutting down of trees and deforestation.
The melting away of the glaciers on Kilimanjaro has caused ecological disturbances, with decreased water supply and an altered landscape being some of the major effects. As the glaciers continue to melt away, the mountain is becoming increasingly vulnerable to drought. In addition, the melting of the glaciers has significantly changed the aesthetics of the mountain, with some of the popular trails along the mountain being closed off due to the danger of slipping.
Ecotourism
Kilimanjaro has become one of the world’s most popular mountains for climbers, hikers, photographers, and eco-tourists. The mountain has become a hot spot for ecotourism, attracting more visitors every year from all over the globe. Climbers and hikers can experience the beauty of the mountain whilst taking the challenge of climbing to the summit or simply enjoy the scenery. Additionally, ecotourism has been an economic boost to the local population, as local tour operators offer various services and activities related to the mountain.
Kilimanjaro is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, adding to its appeal to ecotourists and adventurers. The mountain serves as an important source of water to the local communities, while also providing a source of income and employment through tourism. The profits gained by tourism are then used to help protect the environment, to improve infrastructure and services, and to fund research and conservation projects.
Summit Challenges
Although it may look like a straightforward climb from afar, summiting Kilimanjaro is no easy feat. The altitude, weather conditions, and the terrain itself present challenges to the climbers. Altitude sickness, hypothermia, fatigue and dehydration are some of the common challenges that climbers face. Due to the unpredictable weather, temperatures at the summit can drop to minus 30 degrees Celsius. In addition, the terrain is also difficult to traverse due to the rocky nature of theroute.
Another challenge that people may face during the climb is the lack of proper hydration. The trail to the summit can be quite long and strenuous, prompting climbers to use up energy and water quickly. As such, proper hydration is essential in order to prevent altitude sickness or dehydration.
Safety Tips
When it comes to summiting Kilimanjaro, safety should always be a top priority. Climbers should be well equipped, with appropriate clothing and equipment, depending on the time of year they are climbing. Additionally, they should always use the services of an experienced guide who is trained in mountaineering and high-altitude rescue. Proper hydration and nutrition is also important, as the terrain can be quite challenging and energy consuming.
Finally, climbers should always be prepared for potential emergencies, such as altitude sickness and hypothermia. Carrying a first-aid kit and a back-up plan is essential for any serious climber. Moreover, if one does experience any of the symptoms, they should immediately stop and seek medical help from their guide.
Responsible Climbing
Furthermore, responsible climbing is important when summiting Kilimanjaro. This includes taking the necessary steps to protect the environment while enjoying the scenic beauty of the mountain. Climbers should always bring reusable water bottles and dispose of their waste responsibly. Avoiding shortcuts is also important, as it could damage fragile areas of the mountain.
In addition, proper disposal of materials brought to the mountain is essential. Avoiding fires, bonfires and leaving food behind should always be avoided in order to protect the mountain’s ecology and natural resources. Finally, all climbers should be aware of their effects on the mountain, and should behave in an ethical, responsible, and respectful manner.
