subject: Mount Kilimanjaro - Main Attraction Of Tanzania [print this page] One of the main attractions of Tanzania is Mount Kilimanjaro. This gigantic mountain stands 5,895 meters tall and is the highest mountain in Africa. This mountain is most famous for its three summits which include Shira, Kibo, and Mawenzi. While the two other summits of Mount Kilimanjaro suffered significant erosion; Kibo, being the youngest and highest peak remains an almost-perfect cone.
Mount Kilimanjaro is located in the south of the Equator along the border of Kenya and Tanzania. To the west of this mountain is the renowned Great African Rift Valley which was created by massive tectonic forces. Since the slopes of Kilimanjaro are cold and steep, the early inhabitants around this area were never enticed in going up its peak. Moreover, this mountain used to be very active, and thus, dangerous. Furthermore, there were stories about demons guarding the mountain that circulated around; hence, people then considered Mount Kilimanjaro as a giant mountain which is better off left alone.
However, stories about the mountain changed when people began to discover the appalling beauty that this mountain possesses. Aside from the panoramic views that can be witnessed from the peaks of Kilimanjaro, the mountain is rich with flora and fauna that are only found along its surrounding areas. The forest belt completely circles the mountain and provides the best conditions for flora. Thus, it is certainly not surprising why many different species of vegetation and plants can be found round Mount Kilimanjaro.
Since the lower slopes of the mountain receive plenty of rainfall, these are profoundly cultivated to accommodate bananas and various vegetables. Several other major plantations including coffee cover the other cultivated areas within the belt. However, the soil above the belt is porous and receives less rainfall which results into semi-dessert conditions and occasional vegetation.
Moreover, giant ferns and fig trees are most common on the southern part of the mountain which consists of wetter forests. A variety of vines, Usnea, and flowers can be found in the valleys and in less denser areas. On the other hand, the northern part of the mountain grows junipers, olives, and podocarpus.
Although large animals are seldom seen in Mount Kilimanjaro as in the neighboring Mount Kenya; a number of bird species can be found here most especially the Hornbill and the Turaco. Some monkeys and colobus are also often found inhabiting the area.
Today, Mount Kilimanjaro continues to attract many tourists and visitors. Every year, thousands of hikers try their luck in reaching this mountain's summit. In fact, just in January 2000, more than one thousand people reached its summit to welcome the rising of the sun in the new millennium. The slopes of Kilimanjaro might be cold and steep, but the sights are certainly worth every step.
