When the majority of people think of taking their next holiday vacation to the continent of Africa they generally have one thing in mind… An African safari.
Now we are going to explore why Africa is not all safari tours. Sure a safari tour in Africa is a very adventurous holiday and something that is definitely worth exploring but I dare you to look even deeper to find a unique and exciting adventure for you.
What most people don’t realise is that there are so many different adventures to be had on the continent of Africa some of which you have most likely heard of and others that only serious adventurers are aware of.
In this article to prove why Africa is not all safaris we are taking a look at taking a look at one of the biggest adventures in all of Africa – Climbing Mt Kilimanjaro.
Considered as one of the 7 Natural Wonders of Africa we find Mt Kilimanjaro in Tanzania which stands at a staggering height of 5,895 metres (19,340 ft) making this the largest free standing mountain in the world.
On top of the mountain are 7 different peaks, the largest being named Uhuru. These are covered with snow year round which makes the mountain a beautiful place to visit and to take some stunning photographs.
For the adventurous type climbing the mountain is a must however only 40% of the mountains trekkers will successfully reach the summit on their trip. It’s not much a of climb, more of a trek that is until the last part of mountain which makes the peak unattainable for more than half of its visitors.
There are 6 main tracks for climbing Mt Kilimanjaro which are named Machame, Marangu, Lemosho, Rongai, Shira and Umbwe.
The Machame trek is said to be the most challenging of these although the views of the landscape below are also said to be the best viewing.
One of the best reasons to head to Africa and climb the mighty Mt Kilimanjaro is the fact that you can combine the climb with an African Safari if you wish.
Training, prep and acclimatisation is highly recommended when climbing the high altitude peak so many tour operators will already include a safari tour while the trekkers adjust to the atmosphere.
With Mt Kilimanjaro being located in Tanzania there are a number of additional options for visitors to do to combine a safari or other African tour to add to the climb.
The Ngorongoro Crater is one safari that is located fairly close by and is generally the safari option that most of the tour operators use to combine with Mt Kilimanjaro. In this crater you will see an abundance of wildlife.
Climbing Mt Kilimanjaro is one reason why Africa is not all safaris.