Discovering Tanzania & Mt. Kilimanjaro
Adventurous, mountainous, and home to the highest peak in Africa — Tanzania is an east African country with breathtaking scenery and wildlife. With Kilimanjaro reaching a peak of over 19,000 ft, climbers from around the world are drawn to this mountains breathtaking scenery and trekking routes that are accessible, and affordable to all.
1. Exploring the local city of Moshi
Arriving in Tanzania you’re greeted in the local city of Moshi, an African metropolis that plays host to the Kilmanjaro National Park, authentic Tanzanian cuisine, and the world-famous Mt. Kilimanjaro. It’s a city of only 23 square miles long, so you’ll have plenty of time to explore the culture through tours by local guides and the fantastic panoramic views of Mt Kilimanjaro.
The capital of the region, Moshi is a popular base for many climbers and visitors to Kilimanjaro due to it’s popularity of hotels, and great location close to the mountain park. Culturally Moshi is already well known for its outdoor sporting heritage thanks to the Kilimanjaro Marathon. Vibrant markets are especially popular to visit as well, where you can find anything from african cuisine to textiles and mementos to take away after your trekking adventure.
2. The volcanic history of Kilimanjaro
The highest volcano outside of south america, Kilmanjaro has dominated the plains and forests of Tanzania for well over two million years. At nearly 20,000 ft in height, the mountains volcanic dormancy is hidden in plain sight to many who don’t scratch beneath the surface. Summiting Kilimanjaro takes you to the top of the three volcanic peaks on the mountain — Kibo, Mawenzi, and Shira. Separated by various rock plateaus and the Rebmann glacier, check out these peaks along your trek to get a real feel for the historic atmosphere that draws climbers from around the world here.
3. Safari adventures through the Kilimanjaro National Park
Lions, Elephants, Cape Buffalos — they’re what comes to mind when anyone says the word “Africa”. Not only does Kilimanjaro hold incredible history and climbing routes, but its national park is a UNESCO world heritage sight waiting to be explored on your journey. Along the path to the mountain you’ll have plenty of opportunity to gain an authentic exeperience of seeing the wildlife of africa up close, all via the popular and accredited local tours your Kilimanjaro guides can easily recommend to you.
4. Authentic Kilimanjaro coffee plantations
Coffee lovers can experience for real where some of the best Arabica beans are grown on the continent in person, right next to Kilimanjaro. Brought to the region by missionaries in the 19th century, Kilimanjaro coffee is officially represented by the oldest cooperative in Africa — the Kilimanjaro Native Cooperative Union. Assuring fair pricing and standing for coffee growers across the region, the product is also sold via the Fair Trade Certified program you’ll commonly see in markets across the globe. So if you’ve ever wanted see the original source in person, a visit to the office and plantations based across Moshi is very worthwhile looking into.
5. Beyond Kilimanjaro and across Tanzania
Why stop after your rest from the climb? Being in Tanzania is a rare opportunity to explore a country that holds a wealth of east african history and cutlure. The famous “Northen Circuit” of the Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Tarangire National Park, and Lake Manyara National Park is a one-in-a-lifetime itenerary. If you’re wondering about when’s the best season to check these exotic trips out, then check out our article below and make it a season to remember!
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