Category: Mount Kilimanjaro

Reinhold Messner is a living legend in the mountaineering world that needs no introduction, but it doesn't come easy, without...wait for it....controversy. First, let us give this alpinist from Italy his due by mentioning all the titles he holds under his belt. He is the first person to climb all 14 eight-thousanders, the first human to climb all 14 eight thousanders without supplemental oxygen, and the first to climb Mount Everest without supplemental oxygen. Today 20th, August 2024 marks exactly 24 years since Reinhold Messner summite Everest, solo (alone) without using bottled oxygen assistance. Reinhold Messner and Peter Habeler made history on May 8, 1978, by summiting Mount Everest without supplemental oxygen, a feat that was once thought impossible due to the extreme altitude. In 1953, Sir Edmund Hillary of New Zealand and Tenzing Norgay from Nepal achieved the first confirmed ascent of Mount Everest, navigating the mountain without the aid of fixed ropes or supplemental oxygen. This feat was groundbreaking, yet it was not until 1978 that the notion of climbing Everest without oxygen was truly redefined by Reinhold Messner and Peter Habeler. At the time, climbing Everest at 29,029 feet without oxygen was considered by many experts to be a physiological impossibility, akin to a suicide mission. These critics were unaware that as early as 1924, during the third British expedition, Colonel Edward Norton had ascended to within 900 feet of the summit without oxygen, dressed in tweed, no less. Messner, not content with this achievement, went on to solo the mountain without oxygen in 1980, and in 1986, he completed his quest to summit all 14 of the world's 8,000-meter peaks without using supplemental oxygen, a feat unmatched in its purity. That same year, Swiss climbers Jean Troillet and Erhard Loretan pushed the boundaries further by climbing

The disappearance of the black rhinoceros from Kilimanjaro National Park, or more accurately, the dwindling numbers of Rhinos in Tanzania, can be attributed to a combination of factors, though direct evidence from Kilimanjaro itself is sparse: The black rhinoceros, once a sight to behold even at the base of Mount Kilimanjaro, has vanished from the region due to relentless hunting pressures. Historical accounts tell of Count Teleki, an explorer in East Africa, who reportedly shot down an astonishing 89 black rhinos during his expeditions, with four falling to his gun in a single day. This level of hunting, emblematic of a broader trend of over-hunting, has led to the local extinction of these magnificent animals around Kilimanjaro. The black rhinoceros, known for its solitary nature and distinctive hooked lip, was once part of the diverse wildlife tapestry around the mountain. However, the demand for rhino horn, driven by both traditional medicine and ornamental uses, fueled a poaching epidemic that decimated populations across Africa. The story of Count Teleki's exploits underscores a period when wildlife was seen more as trophies than as integral parts of ecosystems. Mkomazi National Park and the Ngorongoro Crater are one of the few places where you can see endangered black rhinos in the country. Black rhinos, also known as hook-lipped rhinos, are native to eastern and southern Africa, including Tanzania. In Kenya, near Mount Kenya, there is a rhino sanctuary at Ol Pejeta in Laikipia. Will I be eaten by lions, hyenas and leopards while climbing Kilimanjaro? Today, the absence of black rhinos in and around Kilimanjaro National Park serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of unchecked hunting and the broader implications for biodiversity. Efforts to relocate surviving rhinos to safer sanctuaries and rigorous anti-poaching measures are now in place, but the sight of

Storing your sleeping bag before your Mount Kenya, Mount Kilimanjaro, Mount Meru, Mount Ol Doinyo Lengai or even the Rwenzori Mountains requires great care because you have to make sure it is dry first of all, before storing it. So how do you properly store a sleeping bag? Hanging your sleeping bag by the loop or placing it in a large bag that holds it without compressing it are the best ways to store it. You may assist your bag in maintaining its loft by storing it uncompressed. If you're an avid camper, you've likely considered how to store your sleeping bag. However, improper storage can significantly shorten its lifespan and harm the environment. We have good news for you: by following our recommended steps, you can increase your sleeping bag's longevity. This article contains all you need to know about proper storage techniques to keep your sleeping bag in top condition. Remember, these steps not only preserve your sleeping bag but also save you money and reduce your environmental impact. How to keep your sleeping bag dry while camping in the wet weather When camping in damp weather, it's critical to keep your sleeping bag dry to ensure that you stay warm and cozy all night. To assist you keep your sleeping bag dry, consider the following advice: Use a waterproof stuff sack: To kEmploy aour sleeping bag dry and protected from moisture and rain, place it inside a waterproof stuff sack. Make sure your tent is erected on high ground and that the rainfly is firmly fastened to keep precipitation out when setting up your tent. Employ a groundsheet: To stop moisture from leaking through the bottom of your tent, place a groundsheet underneath it. Store damp gear outside: To stop moisture from getting into your sleeping bag,

Everyone should avoid bug bites, and other annoying insects, not only on Mount Kilimanjaro but everywhere and the other mountains like Mount Meru, Mount Kenya, Rwenzori, Ol Doinyo Lengai and even on safari. As you get ready to travel to Tanzania to ascend Mount Kilimanjaro, you may have heard that malaria and other diseases carried by insects and mosquitoes are something to be concerned about. Contrary to popular belief, Kilimanjaro does not have a high prevalence of mosquitoes and other biting insects. This is due to the fact that mosquitoes cannot endure extreme cold or high heights. However, when you're in Arusha or Moshi, make sure you're taking precautions both before and after your climb. You will be in any of these towns, before and after your treks. Make sure you're taking the necessary precautions to ensure you won't be bitten by mosquitoes and other insects if you intend to travel throughout Tanzania or go on a safari. Use insect repellent, wear long sleeves and pants, and sleep under a mosquito net to protect yourself from insect bites. It's also important to be aware of any potential insect-borne diseases in the area and take necessary vaccinations or medications before your trip. By taking these precautions, you can enjoy your time in Tanzania without the annoyance of insect bites or the risk of contracting diseases. According to the American Mosquito Control Association (AMCA), here are some guidelines to adhere to while using repellents. During times when mosquito activity is at its highest, wear long sleeves and pants outside. Only lightly apply repellent to skin that is exposed.  Repellants should only be applied to flesh beneath garments when mosquitoes are able to pass through them. Repellants should not be ingested, inhaled, or accidentally got in the eyes. Repellants should not be applied to

On Kilimanjaro, insects—invertebrates with exoskeletons and various features—live in abundance, especially in the rainforest zone. The various species and existence across Kilimanjaro's varied terrain are evidence of the mountain's tremendous geographical diversity. Though sometimes misunderstood, these microscopic marvels are essential to our ecosystem.  Kilimanjaro's veritable insect kingdom reflects the diversity of its surroundings, ranging from helpful pollinators to annoying bugs and pests apart from Tse tse flies which thrive in many parts of northern Tanzania except Mount Kilimanjaro. If you are wondering if there are spiders on Kilimanjaro, well, numerous spiders and other invertebrates, such as the Pterinochilus chordatus, or Kilimanjaro mustard baboon spider, can be found in the forested regions of Mount Kilimanjaro. This ancient tarantula may grow up to 2 inches in length and 6 inches in width across its legs. It is located in eastern Africa, ranging from Sudan to Tanzania. Since it can be aggressive, beginners are advised against owning one as a pet. What are the common insects and bugs on Kilimanjaro? Yes, there are numerous insects and bugs on Mount Kilimanjaro, like butterflies, various beetles, including dung beetles and longhorn beetles, bees, wasps, grasshoppers, crickets, dragonflies, damselflies, moths, and other different flies. The mountain's diverse ecosystems, ranging from tropical forests to alpine deserts, provide habitats for various insect species. Some common insects found on Mount Kilimanjaro include: These insects and bugs contribute to the ecological balance of Mount Kilimanjaro, supporting plant pollination, and decomposition, and serving as prey for other wildlife. 1. Ants Ants are among the most prominent insects on Mount Kilimanjaro. These small, social insects form intricate colonies that can be observed in both the Rainforest and Montane Forest zones. The Driver and Safari Ants, known for their organized colony structure, play a crucial role in their ecosystems. They are essential for soil aeration and seed dispersal, contributing to the health of forest floors. Their ability to form trails and communicate effectively within colonies is a testament to their highly organized social structure. 2. Butterflies Butterflies, with their vibrant and patterned wings, are prevalent in the Rainforest and Montane Forest zones of Kilimanjaro. Species such as the African Swallowtail and Common Crow add splashes of colour to