31/03/2024
The alpine desert on Mount Kilimanjaro, situated between 4,000 and 5,000 meters above sea level, is a fascinating ecosystem characterized by extreme aridity and stark, barren landscapes. Despite its harsh conditions, this region supports unique plant and animal life, including endemic species like the Kilimanjaro Groundsel. As trekkers ascend the mountain, they pass through this distinctive environment, marking a transition from the lush moorlands below to the rocky, lunar-like terrain of the higher elevations. Understanding and appreciating the resilience of life in the alpine desert adds depth to the experience of climbing Africa’s tallest peak.