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After leaving the rainforest, you enter an area as high as the clouds. Normally this is the first time hikers can look down the mountain and see the rainforest and savannas below. In the rain forest it was impossible to see the view because of the fog and thick plant life. As you look around you are surprised; the view is so unusual it makes you feel like you have been transported to an alien planet.
Giant groundsels mystify the hiker the first time they are viewed.
The plants of the moorland are unique They have several adaptations that have allowed them to live in harsh conditions. Their shiny leaves which reflect light are just one example of an adaptation. (More light reflected increases light around the plants thus increasing food production through photosynthesis)
Lobeliaare normally very short plants. The slopes of Kilimanjaro are the only place in the world where they reach fantastic heights. (Hairy-looking plant behind the hiker)
Lobelia Several species are cultivated in English gardens for the splendor of their flowers in every shade of scarlet, purple, and blue. Medicinal Action and Uses--- • Expectorant, diaphoretic, anti-asthmatic. • A tincture of some plants has been used in the treatment of cancer • Kilimanjaro Lobelia are special plants have adaptations that allow them to live in freezing temperatures (a type of anti-freeze is in their system)
Climbing in Moorlands Even though the weather is drier in this ecosystem, the climbing begins to become harder. One reason this is harder is rocks that twist and turn under your feet. The biggest reason however, is the higher altitude and lower levels of oxygen. At this point you are thankful for your porter and all the goodies he has been carrying for you.
Why would one ever want to be a porter? • First, this job provides natives an opportunity to actually touch snow. Tanzanians can see the snow and glacier-topped mountain, but the vast majority of the people have never touched snow. • Secondly, Tanzania is a poor country with an annual per capita income of $250. Its game parks and mountains are its principal resources. Manufacturing is non-existent and the farms are small. Tourists shy away from Kilimanjaro because of the traveling conditions to the mountain. A car ride on one of Tanzania's unmarked, chaotic roads is by far the most white-knuckled experiences one can have. Hikers are more frightened by traveling to the mountain than the actual climb.
Climber's Equipment • warm heavy weight gloves/mittens • wide brimmed hat • warm scarf • snow-goggles/sunglasses • sweaters/jumpers • trekking pants and jacket (wind- and waterproof) • long sleeved shirts • 2 to 3 pairs of shorts • several pairs of socks • set of thermal underwear (top & bottom) • sun protection cream • 2 x 2 liters water bottles (camel bags) • headlamp plus spare batteries & bulb) • first aid kit and insect repellants • toiletry requirements • additional equipment as required • walking poles • waterproof anorak or raincoat • waterproof rucksack & daypack • sleeping Bag • inflatable sleeping pad/mat • hiking boots: This is the most important • item on the list. Be sure your • boots are broken in. • 2 - 3 packets of moist towelettes. • whistle • some plastic bags • roll mats and insulation pads • travel pillow • Swiss army knife • journal
Fauna Sightings of smaller mammals such as duikers, elands and klipspringers have been reported here. There are even claims of the odd lion having been spotted wandering across the plateau. More common to this area however are the smaller rodents such as grass mice, and birds such as ravens, vultures and the pale brown alpine chat.
Visit these sites to learn about duikers, elands, and klipspringers. • http://www.wildwatch.com/resources/mammals/duikers.asp(duiker) • http://www.nature.ca/notebooks/english/eland.htm(elands) • http://www.wildwatch.com/resources/mammals/klipspringer.asp(Klipspringers)
