The Beauty Of Mt Kilimanjaro

Mt. Kilimanjaro is the highest mountain in Africa. It’s found on the north eastern of Tanzania and Kenyan Border. It rises 5,893 above the sea level. It has three volcanic cones namely, Kibo, Mawenzi and Shira which are inactive today. It is the fourth most prominent in the world. Its name’s origin is not clear but the word Kilima in Swahili means ‘mountain’ while Njaro is from a local community meaning ‘whiteness’ and its in reference to the white snowcaps that sit at the mountains top.

Mt. Kilimanjaro is classified as a strato volcano and it came into existence a million years ago when lava that formed the Great Rift Valley spilled into the zone. The highest peak known as Kibo is dormant but can erupt any time. The other two Mawenzi and Shira have become extinct. Though Kibo is dormant its still emits gas and in 2003 scientist reported that molten magma was just 400m inside the crater. Despite that, it still remains a hot spot for mountain climbers.

Mt Kilimajaro has several climbing routes namely: Marangu, Lemosho, Shira, Umbwe, Rongai and Machame. Machame is the most adventurers climbing route though it’s very steep while Marangu is the easiest. This route is dotted with accommodation huts which act as resting places, and is the busiest. However before climbing any mountain, one should ensure he/she is physically capable and well loaded with climbing gears. People who suffer from cold conditions should avoid mountain climbing. Those who do should always ensure they do acclimatization first.



Dickson is a professional tour guide located in Kenya. For more info on his work please visit his website at http://www.advenafrica.com. You can also contact him at http://www.advenafrica.com/gettingus.htm if you are interested in touring Kenya and Africa as a whole.