View over the Kilimanjaro
Mt.
Kilimanjaro is the highest mountain in Africa and fourth highest of
the Seven Summits. Its highest point, Uhuru Peak, rises to an
altitude of 5,895 m (19,341 ft) AMSL (Above Mean Sea
Level).
Kilimanjaro is composed of three distinct volcanic
cones: Kibo 5,895 m (19,341 ft); Mawenzi 5,149 m
(16,893 ft); and Shira 3,962 m (13,000 ft). Uhuru
Peak is the highest summit on Kibo's crater rim.
Kilimanjaro is a giant stratovolcano that began
forming a million years ago, when lava spilled from the Rift Valley
zone. Two of its three peaks, Mawenzi and Shira, are extinct while
Kibo (the highest peak) is dormant and could erupt again. The last
major eruption has been dated to 360,000 years ago, while the most
recent activity was recorded just 200 years ago.
Although
it is dormant, Kilimanjaro has fumaroles that emit gas in the
crater on the main summit of Kibo. Scientists concluded in 2003
that molten magma is just 400 m (1,310 ft) below the
summit crater.[citation
needed] Several collapses and landslides have occurred on
Kibo in the past, one creating the area known as the Western
Breach.
From the
cachesite you have a magnificent view over the Kilimanjaro. We
would appreciate pictures with your log.
Unfortunately i haven`t been able to visit the mount,
but i hope to make the trip next year. In the meanwhile my friend
DutchMzungu maintains the cache !