Early Pictures of Mt Kilimanjaro
Before getting into the picturesque sites to capture stunning mountain shots, let’s learn about the early Pictures Of Kilimanjaro and their significance in protecting the depleting glaciers.
Mount Kilimanjaro, rising majestically at 5,895 meters above sea level, is a stratovolcano made from ash, lava, and rock.
History depicts that this mountain was formed almost 7,50,000 years ago from the volcanic eruptions of three centres- Shira, Mawenzi, and Kibo.
While Kibo is the only dormant peak and has the possibility of erupting again, Shira and Mawenzi are extinct.
Moreover, the Kibo Summit (5,893 m) on Kilimanjaro remains among the limited African peaks with glaciers. In 2003 and 2004, the International Space Station captured Pictures of Kilimanjaro that vividly showcased these glaciers.
- The Picture 1, captured on April 9, 2003, gives a clear 3D view of the mountain's ice patches on the upper northwestern and southern sides.
- Picture 2, taken in June 2004, shows large blue-white glacier fields on the southern and northwestern slopes of the mountain. A thin layer of snow also makes the ground around the ice look brighter.
These old Pictures of Mount Kilimanjaro taken by space stations are highly beneficial for comparative analysis of dwindling glaciers' past and present activity.
Moreover, many experts believe that by 2020, the Glacier on Kilimanjaro would have melted away. However, there's debate about the reasons for this melting.
Researchers are looking at recent weather patterns and changes since the 1800s to understand this. They're also comparing old mountain weather data with records from places lower down. Mount Kilimanjaro Pictures Before and After can help show these changes over time.
Top 10 Spots to Capture the Best Kilimanjaro Pictures
Here is a list of the top 10 spots to take the most stunning and impressive Kilimanjaro Climb Pictures.
1. The Barranco Valley
The Barranco Valley, south of Kilimanjaro's peak, offers fantastic spots for Kilimanjaro Pictures. At about 4,000 metres, you'll find the unique Dendrosenecio kilimanjari, giant plants that seem out of this world.
You'll camp here if you're on the Lemosho, Machame Route. Don't forget to snap a photo as a memory of your Kilimanjaro Tours.
2. Shira Plateau
The Shira cone stopped being active around 500,000 years ago, and that's how the Shira Plateau came to be.
This significant piece of land is about 24 square miles and is found west of Kilimanjaro, standing at 12,500 feet or 3,800 meters high.
If you're on a Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing adventure using the Lemosho or Northern Circuit Route, you'll see the mountain for the first time from this plateau.
3. Lava Tower
The Lava Tower on Mount Kilimanjaro is like a giant rock statue that came into existence from cooling lava a long time ago.
It's 300 feet tall and stands out when you walk the mountain's paths. There are no plants around it, just lots of stones and dust.
People on the Lemosho, Machame, and Northern Circuit routes will walk by it and get a chance to take some fantastic Kilimanjaro Pictures. Historically, folks could climb it, but now it's seen as too risky. This tower is a must-see during Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing trips.
4. Barranco Wall
Rising to a height of 843 feet, The Barranco Wall is a standout feature on Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing Tours. It formed when a section of Kibo's crater rim fell.
Even though it looks daunting, climbing is more fun and safer than one might think. Reaching the top offers a prime spot for Mt Kilimanjaro Pictures with the sky and clouds in the background.
It's a highlight for climbers on the Lemosho and Machame routes.
5. The Saddle
The Saddle is a vast and flat desert space between Kibo and Mawenzi. Covering about 14 square miles, it's the biggest high-altitude desert in Africa.
Suppose you're on the Rongai Route during your Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing; in that case, you'll cross this unique area on the way to the top, offering excellent opportunities for pictures against its stark and expansive backdrop.
6. Mawenzi Peak
Mawenzi Peak, standing at 16,893 feet, is the second tallest of Kilimanjaro's three peaks.
Known for its sharp terrain and loose rocks, this peak was previously off-limits due to past accidents. It's been reopened recently, but only for technical climbers aware of the risks.
Given its unique shape and towering presence, this peak offer some of the best Pictures of Mount Kilimanjaro. While the Marangu and Rongai routes offer close-up views, Mawenzi is visible and awe-inspiring from all Kilimanjaro Climbing Routes.
7. Crater Camp
The Crater Camp, situated close to the summit at 18,865 feet, is Kilimanjaro's loftiest campsite.
It's a surreal place, almost lunar-like, with the ground covered in rough volcanic stones and thick ash.
Those adventurous enough to stay an extra day can explore the Furtwangler Glacier, one of Kilimanjaro's last glaciers.
Taking Kilimanjaro Pictures here feels like capturing a moon landing. Used in the Lemosho Crater and Northern Crater Routes, this camp offers an unparalleled high-altitude experience.
8. The Southern Ice Field
Despite its equatorial position, Kilimanjaro is surprisingly icy. It boasts glaciers that have adorned its peak for ages. Yet, these iconic ice formations are diminishing rapidly.
As you get closer to the top from any route, the Southern Ice Field provides stunning views. It's an excellent spot for Kilimanjaro Pictures. Make sure to capture these images soon, as the glaciers are at risk due to global warming.
9. Uhuru Peak
Nestled at an elevation of 19,340 feet (5,895 metres), the Uhuru Peak represents Kilimanjaro's zenith. T
his highest point, situated on Kibo's volcanic cone, gifts climbers with unmatched scenic beauty – a dream for those seeking the Best Kilimanjaro Pictures.
As you stand atop Africa's tallest mountain, the surrounding vistas are a visual treat and a symbol of your triumphant climb.
It's a place where every Kilimanjaro Climb enthusiast aims to capture that iconic moment beside the summit's wooden sign.
10. The Reusch crater
Kibo, Kilimanjaro's tallest cone, houses the Reusch Crater with an inner area called the Ash Pit.
Even though the last eruption was around 360,000 years ago, this dormant volcano can awaken anytime.
To get a glimpse of the Reusch Crater and perhaps take some memorable Pictures of Mount Kilimanjaro, you can hike for an hour from Crater Camp when on the Lemosho Crater or Northern Crater Route.