With its richly varied geography, ecosystems and cultures, Tanzania has much to draw the adventurous spirit to its mountains, grasslands and forests. Kilimanjaro trekking is one of its foremost attractions, but by no means the only one - here are five of the other most incredible experiences the country has to offer.
Mount Meru
As those who embark on a Kilimanjaro trekking journey will be aware, acclimatisation is all-important. Many people opt to prepare themselves for the main ascent by climbing Mount Meru (4,562 metres) first - but that's not the only reason to explore this striking mountain, which has its own beauty and richness. The tenth highest mountain in Africa, this gracefully sloped stratovolcano sits at the heart of Arusha National Park, providing a home for numerous species of plants and animals on its fertile flanks - including leopards, monkeys, and a hundreds of bird species.
The Serengeti
There are many wonderful wildlife watching options for those who want to combine Kilimanjaro trekking with a safari. Among the most exciting is the chance to watch the great wildebeest migration across the Serengeti - the largest migration of mammals to be seen anywhere in the world. Also to be found in these stunning grasslands are gazelles, zebras, buffaloes and lions.
Ngorongoro Crater
Considered by many to be among the best places to see wildlife in all of Africa, the Ngorongoro Crater lies in the sweeping plains of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is the largest intact crater on Earth, and its unique size and shape make it the perfect natural wildlife enclosure. This is the East African ecosystem in miniature, with almost every species represented, including elephants, zebra, lions, and the rare black rhino.
Oldupai Gorge
One thing that becomes apparent to those who choose to explore it is that Tanzania is a truly awe-inspiring place - from the breathtaking heights that can be reached when you go Kilimanjaro trekking, to the dizzying sense of ancient history imparted by the prehistoric discoveries at Oldupai Gorge. Also called Olduvai Gorge, this is one of the most legendary archaeological sites in the world: investigations made down this steep ravine have revealed some of the oldest known human remains and stone tools, earning it the nickname 'The Cradle of Mankind' and providing significant evidence for the theory that humans evolved in East Africa.
Zanzibar
For a completely different experience in East Africa compared to Kilimanjaro trekking and wildlife watching, head to Zanzibar. The archipelago, made up of a scattering of Islands in the Indian Ocean, just off the coast of Tanzania, is a semi-autonomous zone known for its flawless beaches, spice trade, and complex, layered history. From its lush jungles hosting rare species, to the gorgeous heritage sites of the old capital Stone Town, this is a place that visitors will find hard to forget.
Jude Limburn Turner is the Marketing Manager for Mountain Kingdoms, an adventure tour company who have run Kilimanjaro trekking itineraries for over 20 years. They now offer treks and tours worldwide, including destinations in North and South America, Europe, Africa, and Central and South East Asia.
0 nhận xét:
Đăng nhận xét