Want to learn more about the mountains of Kenya? A geographically and topographically diverse country, the Republic of Kenya has beautiful mountains that are more than just a geographical feature! Please read this article to learn about the features of the mountains, their cultural significance, and their beauty.
There are almost 3888 mountains, out of which 3856 are named mountains. Mount Kenya is the highest peak of all these mountains, with an elevation of 5199 meters. It is one of the second-highest mountains in Africa and is considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Kenya is located in the eastern part of Africa, more towards the southern horn of Africa, with diverse geographical features ranging from towering alpine peaks to mangrove swamps. The mountains’ beauty adds to the country’s natural features, making it a perfect place to visit!
As a country with a topographical contrast, Kenya is located in the eastern section of Africa. The equator crosses the country across Nanyuki, Maseno, and Timboroa. These features highlight Kenya as a stunning destination that many wish to visit!
Being a topographically diverse country where the forests offer diverse wildlife, and is perfect to visit if you love taking safaris. There are also coasts and grasslands, making the location more diverse.
The nation is also highly agricultural, with diverse produce, including vegetables, fruits, and animals, even though the location is remote and can be difficult for regular travel.
An African safari holiday is a dream for every hodophile, and Kenya offers the perfect backdrop. With spectacular wildlife, astounding landscapes, and a melting pot of culture, Kenya ranks at the top of the travel list of everyone!
The beautiful mountains play an important role in making Kenya a fascinating place! The country borders nations such as South Sudan, Ethiopia, Tanzania, Uganda, and Somalia. So want to know more about the up-warped giants of the earth? Read along!
Highest Mountains Of Kenya
The total area of Kenya is 586,000 square kilometers, with high-rising regions such as high plateaus, mountains, arid deserts, and low-lying coastal areas, including islands and coral reefs. 7 freshwater and salt lakes are creating the Great Rift Valley cutting the country in half!
Kenya has two of the tallest mountains on the continent. There are several other mountains, most inactive or extinct volcanoes. The landscape is diversified, yet the mountains are as beautiful as ever! Read more on some of the noteworthy mountains in Kenya.
Mount Kenya
The highest mountain in Kenya is Mount Kenya, located in the center of Kenya, approximately 100 miles northeast of the Capital, Nairobi.
The mountain has several summits; Nelion, Lenana, and Batian are some. Bastian is the highest, with 17,058 feet, indicating the mountain’s peak. The mountain formed about 3.5 million years ago.
A well-known tourist destination, the Mount Kenya National Park surrounds Mount Kenya at the base. You can see elephants, buffalo, and colobus monkeys in the park.
You can trek the mountain’s peak of Lenana Summit as it is feasible without any mountaineering expertise. The rock kente is only available on Mount Kenya and the Antarctic, situated at the South Pole.
The Spiritual Connection Of Mount Kenya
Riuki is found on Mount Kenya, which in a spiritual context is considered the symbolization of the throne of God. Riuki is regarded as the pathfinder by the Gikuyu medicine men. They also believe it therapeutic as they put pebbles at risk as seers.
The history of Mount Kenya is interconnected with the Egyptians, Jews, and Ethiopians. Mount Kenya is called Ta-Neteru by the Egyptians, which means the abode of the gods. The God Hapi or lotus, the gods of the Nile Floods, lived on the mountain.
The farming communities that settled in Egypt in 7000 BC before the inundation of the Nile corresponded with “Isis,” the heliacal rising of the star. It was after the water from the Nile flooding receded, leading to rich dark silt across the Central African countries and highlands.
The land is called “Kemet,” which is fertile land ready for planting. They consider the lands around Mount Kenya as one of the fertile lands. They also believed that the goddess Isis hid her son, her husband Horus, to raise him from the dead.
The mountain is therefore considered to have medical properties, and the locals consider it amazing. They pray to the mountains for protection and safety. Communities such as Maasai and Samburu are semi-nomadic people who use the northland of the mountain as a paying ground.
The second tallest peak in Kenya is Mount Elgon, located on the country’s western side, closer to the Kenya-Uganda border. The mountain has distinguishing characteristics, such as having one of the largest volcanic craters.
The top of the mountain is a flat-topped plateau made of basalt. The total height of the mountain is 13,852 feet, with lava tube tunnels across the mountain.
Elephants and buffaloes often visit the lava tube tunnels. A national park surrounding Mount Elgon also has rhinos, eagles, leopards, and duikers.
Mount Longonot is an inactive volcano that last erupted in the 1860s but is not completely extinct. The height of the mountain is 9108 feet, and the mountain’s slopes are filled with ridges.
Mount Longonot is a mountain in Kenya. A park nearby has plenty of wildlife, such as zebras and giraffes. The mountain is situated approximately 60 kilometers northwest of Nairobi.
Travelers can visit the park by car, and the base of Mount Longonot has a lot of forest, even around the top crater. Compared to many stony mountains, this one is thickly wooded across the slopes and the summits.
Mount Satima is also known as “Ol Donyo Satima,” which roughly translates to “Mountain of the bull calf.” is one of the Kenya mountains! It is the highest mountain across the Aberdare range, with a height of 13,127 feet, and is located on the northern side of the mountain range.
The mount has tussock grass and rocks in some areas and rainforests. There are bamboo forests and Moorland across a section of the mountain. The mountain has a collection of 150 species of plants, such as Podo and Cedar.
The mountain is part of the water catchment area for both the Sasumua and Ndakaini dams. The two dams for Nairobi City are the primary source of water.
Kinangop is a dormant volcano in the Great Rift Valley and the west of the Kinangop Plateau. It is also situated in the Aberdares, with extensive bamboo forests across the mountain in the lower portion. The height of the mountain is 12815 feet.
The higher sections of the mountain are covered with tussock grass. The top of the mountain is rocky with open moorlands. The top of the mountain is quite chilly and turns freezing at night.
Mount Ngiro is located in the northern region of Kenya, with a height of 9344 feet. The mountain is part of the Great Rift Valley to the west overlooking the Suguta Valley. The upper slopes have forests, while the mountains is popular for cultivating bees.
The mountain falls under the territory of the Samburu people, while the Lmasula phratry performs bee cultivation. The clan claims exclusive rights to the water and the land.
Several other mountains and hills are situated in the nation, creating an exciting place for vacationing. If you are a hiking person, Kenya is the perfect place to visit as there are several advantages. There are enough mountains in Kenya for you to go hiking and trails.
It is a perfect spot to share holidays and weekends with your hiking partners. Some of the tallest mountains are situated in East Kenya.
The mountain Kulal is identified as a biosphere reserve with lava fields, and the origin of the mountain is a volcano. The moisture in the biosphere leads to rain and mist, providing hydrological services to the people in northern Kenya.
The mountain is located in the middle of East Africa, with steep slopes while deep canyons go across the mountain. It is also considered one of the driest places in Africa. There are forests across the mountain, a habitat for black rhinoceroses and elephants.
Mount Marsabit is surrounded by Mt. Marsabit National Park and Reserve, with a height of 1703 meters above sea level. The mountain has many craters, while the hills around it highlight the mountain.
Across the mountain are many low-lying arid plains with elliptical shapes 70 km long on the northeast-southwest and 45 km wide on the northeast-southwest. The mountain was created with weathered lava flow.
Mogila is one of the mountains of Kenya with a height of 1698 meters surrounded by local relief of 300 meters, steep slopes, with a small summit area. The mountain is located in the Turkana, creating the Great Dividing Range.
According to the Kikuyu tribe, the local Kikuyu god N’gai is thought to reside at the summit of Mount Kenya. Mount Kenya is one such place that is worshiped by the local cultures, as they consider these mountains the home of spirits and gods.
Mount Kenya is known as a spiritual mountain, as the local communities think of it as the residence of God. Ethiopian also consider it the home of God and revered in its presence. The belief has been further confirmed by snow at the top of the mountain.
The mountain is very close to the equator; hence, it is quite surprising that the top is covered with snow. There are thick forests around the mountain, and initially, the military dug the woods to flush the Maumau freedom fighters.
According to the traditional version of Mount Kenya in Kikuyu, a star fell on the ground with a bang and formed the mountain. The mountain is considered to have volcanic ashes and oozing magma which forms the Kenyte.
Mount Longonot has its Masai name, “Oloonong’ot,” meaning “mountain with many spurs.” The mountains are important and are identified as traditional sites for worship by the local populations.
Some vow in the mountain’s name, while some send prayers based on cultural traditions. Both visitors and the natives are involved in collaborative activities such as mountain climbing and hiking.
Are The Mountains Of Kenya A Cult?
The high places in Kenya, especially mountains with snow caps, high mountain ranges, and island mountains, are considered cults. There are psychological roots of the communities who believe that mountains act as a heavenly ladder.
Besides the spiritual connection, mountains are also considered helpful natural elements for humans as they bring rain, while they also have volcanoes. Volcanoes have a fiery side to them, representing the element of earth.
According to the myths based on the world’s origin, mountains are the first natural element from ancient water. Mountains are used as a symbol of the earth and are also considered a cosmic connection with humans.
Mountains are considered shrines or altars for God, and the local communities worship them. For example, people in Africa often blame an earth deity when there is an earthquake.
Snakes are also considered culprits in the cultural practices in Africa. All these beliefs are interrelated with the cult.
Conclusion
Did you notice something unique about the mountains of Kenya? Most of these mountains have physical features giving an Alpine appearance. There are many ridges across the mountains, giving it a ragged nature.
So now you are well-informed about the beauty of the mountains, especially when it comes to the cultural aspect of it. People worshiping mountains is one tradition that integrates respect and protection of the natural elements.
People from different cultures in Kenya believe in spirituality and offer prayers to the mountains. Let us know in the comments below if you see any culture where people worship mountains too!
Sagnika Sinha is a content writer who is passionate about writing travel vlogs, entertainment and celebrity articles and literature-based pieces. With a 4 years experience in teaching, she loves reading books. A procrastinator by nature, she loves travelling, listening to music, planting and gardening.
One response to “Explore The Beauty Of The Mountains Of Kenya!”
Attractive section of content. I just stumbled upon your blog and in accession capital to assert that I get actually enjoyed account your blog posts. Anyway I will be subscribing to your augment and even I achievement you access consistently fast.
We all are aware of the harmful consequences that tobacco can cause to our bodies. So, with time people have tried to opt for a healthier option, an alternative for smoking. Earlier, there was no way to replace conventional smoking, but for the past few years, that has seen a change. Vaping and e-cigarettes have become a part of many individuals’ routine. They are also becoming more and more readily available by the day due to an increase in the number of vape shops.
1. Focus on maintenance
For all the beginners out there looking into vapes and vape mod sales, it can be quite a task to understand how each accessory works. But you can get help online or follow the manual thoroughly, as each product comes with one. The most important factor to learn is how to clean and maintain it as each device and mod can have different requirements. Be careful while in the process. Do not leave it here and there. Carelessness can cost you the longevity of the device.
You need to understand that even though you may be taking good care of your essentials, there might be reasons because of which they might break down. In such instances, you need to look for the best repair shop. If you are lucky, you can pick up all your essentials and non-essential replacement parts at attractive prices and with heavy discounts. Most platforms carry all the best brands and offer to ship wherever you want it.
2. Check your tank
Vaping tanks can be of two types- glass and plastic. But no matter what yours is, you have to wash and clean it every once in a while. Set up reminders if needed. Do not let too much of the gunk accumulate in the tank as it gets harder to clean it that way. What gunk does to your e-liquid is terrible. Each time you take a sip, you will experience an awful aftertaste. It is best if you wash it in lukewarm water every time and let it dry for some time. If that too does not work, try using some vodka on it and rinse it off. Proper cleaning and rinsing are extremely important. If you fail to do so, then a portion of the liquid still remains in the tank, causing the next flavor to mix with it and spoil your taste. To resolve this issue, you can keep separate flavors in separate tanks.
3. Keep a check on your batteries
Be very careful when buying the batteries for your vaping accessories. It is imperative that you do some prior research about what type of pick. Select carefully from the wide range that is available in the market. Not every type of battery has the same capacity. You need to charge it from time to time. If you fail to do so, then you might run out of charge at any time while you are outdoors. This can hinder your vaping experience. Also, running the device on a low battery level will ultimately damage it. Make sure you avoid this mistake. It will be in your best interest if you keep a spare battery with you at all times. Carry a vaping kit to ensure the safety of the accessories and remember that not all devices come with the feature of running while connected for charging.
4. Read up about your vape juice
The vaping juice can be easily considered the main ingredient that makes up your vaping experience. It is singlehandedly responsible for a great time while vaping. Do not expose the vape juice bottle to air for more than an hour. It can entirely ruin your experience as the flavor starts to fade away. You would absolutely not want to compromise your experience in any way. Make sure to shake the juice bottle before transferring it to the tank. This simple trick can enhance the flavor by leaps and bounds. Always remember to pop the vape juice bottle open in a dark room or a room with minimal lighting. Sunlight can cause more harm to the liquid than you can imagine. It spoils the liquid in no time if exposed to it.
5. Quality of your coil
A lot of individuals, mostly if they are beginners, do not take the coil quality seriously. They do not deem it to be of that much importance until they finally understand how it can enhance their experience. If you buy the right quality coil, then the e-liquid remains safe, and the flavors are intact. So, research well before you buy a coil for your device.
6. Seek suggestions
If you are a beginner, do not try to do it all by yourself. Right from purchasing the device, getting down to the details, and taking proper care of it is not that easy. Being a beginner, you might not be aware of every procedure. There is no harm in asking for help from somebody who is an avid user. It will help you get a better vaping experience.
Read Also:
10 Travel Books You Should Be Read In 2019
Top Places To Visit In Italy On Your Next Travel Escapade
These national parks Illinois will give you the ultimate experience of ‘Breathing within nature.’
Chicago, the windy city!
That is the first thought that comes to our mind when we think about the state Illinois located in the central estern region of the United States Of America.
Although Chicago is the perfect destination when it comes to relieving the American nostalgia with vintage buildings and dinners, all our nature’s enthusiasts will be leaning more towards the Mississippi river bay of Illinois.
One more thing that attracts travellers towards this town are the breathtaking national parks illinois. It is no short of windy roads and state parks giving you the serene experience that the city of Chicago can’t.
These national parks near Illinois will give you the ultimate experience of ‘Breathing within nature.’
Following the general US restrictions, travel to Illinois from other states and countries have been open.
National Parks In Illinois
Taking the famous route 66 which trails to the pacific west coast, then you will tumble across two of the most well known Illinois national parks which can be a jackpot for people who take a special interest in the history of the state.
It is known as the ‘Land of Lincoln’ afterall!
These national parks in Illinois also have excellent hiking trails.
Are There Any National Parks In Illinois?
Yes, Illinois has two major national parks. These are
Pullman National Monument
Lincoln Home National Historic Site.
However, they are mostly national park services. Nevertheless, they don’t fall short of showing the mesmerizing beauty of nature. However, if hiking is more in your forte then here are the three more National historic trails of the national park Illinois which you can add to your itinerary.
Here Are The List Of National Park Illinois Trails
Mormon Pioneer National Historic Trail
Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail
Trail Of Tears National Historic Trail
Are Illinois National Parks Open?
Following every Covid Guideline, National parks Illinois have been opened for travel.
Pullman National Monument
This Illinois national park is located in the northern side of the state. It will take you less than thirty minutes to reach the location from Chicago. It is a small national park which is evidently surrounded by districts which have found their place in American history.
This district is known to be the first planned one in the whole country. Other than the short walks you can take throughout the community and fill your day with other attractive sightseeing then go for the Pullman park which is a must.
If you are nature’s prodigy and love camping then you might find a place right in this national park Illinois. However, on travelling a little west you will find the beautiful MacMahon Woods to have a night or two in the wilderness.
Lincoln Home National Historic Site
This Illinois national park is located in the breathtaking state capital Springfield. It gets its name because of the fact that the former president resided here with his family before becoming the president of the United States.
The national park itself is not that big, but nevertheless sublime. Therefore, it won't take you more than an hour or two to cover the entire ground. However, the main attraction here is not there woods, it is Lincoln house itself which has a visiting entry. There is also a show that airs regarding this subject.
Mormon Pioneer National Historic Trail
National park Illinois trails are the perfect blend which will give you a look at the locals and the mesmerizing nature that surrounds it.
Although, make sure you know your route and sites since there are certain private properties that do not allow the entrance of outside public. Since it is in the south of the Mississippi River, you can find hiking trails, scenic beauties, and camping ground.
If you have plans to travel a little towards the west, Shimek state forest among the national parks in Illinois.
Trail Of Tears National Historic Trail
The next on the list of the best national parks in Illinois is the Trail of Tears, also known as the “Journey of Injustice.” Most urban places may be reached by car in just one hour from one of these routes, which are dispersed all throughout the nation.
We can better appreciate Native Americans' history and struggles by studying the Trail of Tears, a national historic trail.
The Indian Removal Act was established by Congress in 1830, which is when the trail's history began.
The law signed by President Andrew Jackson permitted "for an exchange of lands with the Indians residing in any of the states or territories, and for their removal west of the river Mississippi".
What Is The Most Beautiful National Park In Illinois?
Shawnee National Forest which is located in Harrisburg is known to be the most beautiful national park trail in Illinois.
Lewis And Clark National Historic Trail
This historic trail doesn’t restrict national park Illinois. The headquarters of this park is situated in the state of Omaha however, it stretches up to Hartford Illinois.
It is situated in the west of the Mississippi River from St.Louis. Other than the breathtaking landscape which you can explore, you can also squeeze some time for the historical attractions with old buildings and exhibits that are flourishing around this area.
The closest camping site for this trail is Granite City, or if the riverside camping is what you desire then you can drive to Sioux Passage Park.
What Is The Biggest National Park In Illinois?
Although, the measurement of national park Illinois cannot be given, in terms of state parks the biggest one which covers almost 8000 acres in Pere Marquette State Park.
These are some of the best national parks in Illinois. However, if Illinois is not your last stop and national parks aren’t the only trails you are looking for, then here is a list of other state parks or national parks in the driveaway neighbourhood that you can explore.
In just a three hour drive, you can reach Mark Twain National park in the neighbouring state of Missouri.
You can Visit Chicago and dive into the city life for a little while.
Again in just a three hour ride, you can visit Indiana Dunes National Parks which has some of the most desirable camping grounds. A night of wild adventures and sweet smokey smores!
Some Of The State Parks You Can Visit
If you have crossed all the national parks Illinois in the list then step towards some of the state parks. With gorgeous sites and fun activities like fishing, camping, and boating filled in these trips, you won’t be disappointed.
Clinton Lake State Recreation Area
Rock Cut State Park
Fort Massac State Park
Illinois Beach State Park
Hennepin Canal State Trail
The best part is, the government charges no extra penny for you to enter these paradises.
Are Covid 19 Tests Required To Travel To National Park Illinois?
If you are an unvaccinated traveler then you have to get a Covid Test for travelling to Illinois. You don’t have to get quarantined though.
Final Thoughts
With big cities of the country getting all the limelight, we are forgetting the other smaller states where lies the sublime beauties of mother nature as well as the nostalgia of American history.
So, this season let us rekindle the hidden beauties of national parks illinois that will tweek all your travel love metre again.
Read Also:
A Guide To National Parks In Alabama – Latest Guide
A Guide To National Parks In Wisconsin – Latest Guide
A Guide To National Parks In Arkansas – Latest Guide
Best National Parks In Missouri That You Must Know
Top 8 List Of National Parks In North Carolina – Travel Guide
Are you planning on traveling to a foreign country in the next few days, weeks, or months during the pandemic?
Do you know what are some things you should look out for to ensure that your travel is safe and smooth?
Have you tried looking at some of the manuals and suggestions being laid out by governments when it comes to international travel?
The Coronavirus pandemic shows no signs of slowing down or stopping. The past month saw the discovery of a new, more dangerous mutation of the Coronavirus in Britain. The same has now been seen in multiple countries all over the world.
However, even in the midst of all the turmoil, there might be multiple reasons why someone would have to fly out to a foreign location. In this article, we list down the top 7 things, you should check for when traveling during the pandemic.
List of 7 Things to Check when traveling during the Pandemic
1. International Flight Status
Whether you are flying domestic or international, flight timings, routes and other details are something, which you should be aware of. During the pandemic, the international flight status keeps changing because of multiple reasons.
Flights are getting rescheduled, canceled, or postponed left, right and center. You do not want to be stranded in the airport of some foreign country as you had failed to check on the flight status before you left for the airport. This will hold you in good stead during the travel.
2. Quarantine Rules
Like flights, quarantine rules keep changing at a moment’s notice in many countries and their cities. If you are flying in from countries that are classified as high-risk by the local government, you would need to spend a stipulated period of time in quarantine.
The same can be anywhere from seven to fourteen days. It can also be mandated that you spend the days at a government institutional quarantine center and not at a hotel of your choice. Finding out about the rules can help in clearing confusion and planning your trip better.
3. COVID-19 Negative Test Results
Most countries have set aside rules for international travelers who are flying in. They need to carry COVID-19 Negative Test Results, which should be done no less than 24-48 hours. If your test results are from an earlier period, you will not be allowed to board the flight.
There are many diagnostic centers and labs affiliated by airlines that offer quick one-day results for RT-PCR Tests for COVID-19. This is slightly expensive when you compare the same with normal test results. However, you need to get them before boarding a plane and landing.
4. Safety Protocols at the Hotel or place of stay
Individual institutions too have their own safety protocols in place for travelers coming from outside. In most cases, travelers who are coming from other countries would need to disclose the same. This would be followed by a separate area being earmarked for them.
Most hotels have done away with Room Service and other normal procedures. In fact, the room fridge, might also not have the snacks you need. Timings for using the restaurant and meals would also be done in a staggered fashion to practice social distancing.
5. New COVID-19 Rules Imposed by the City
Most cities around the world have created their own rules and regulations regarding inter-city and intra-city travel. Some cities have placed curfew timings for nights and weekends. Other cities have placed lockdowns on specific zones within the city where cases are rising.
This is why you should be careful of where you are traveling to and the local rules and regulations in the same. However, one more thing, which should be pointed out is that rules and laws regarding mobility change instantly, leaving you with little or no time to adjust.
6. Carrying Protective Gear and SOS Medicines
We all know how the pandemic has necessitated the use of face masks, shields, gloves, sanitizers, and other protective equipment. When you are traveling, you should ensure that you are carrying substantial amounts of the same with you.
Ideally, you do not want to purchase the same in some foreign country. You also need to ensure that you are abiding by all the safety protocols of the place and the pandemic. You can get fined heavily for not following the safety protocols in major countries and cities in the world.
7. Keeping others Informed about your Travel Plans
If you have been paying attention to the article, you would have noticed how we have stressed the fact that quarantine, local movement, and other rules can change in an instant. This is why travel experts suggest that you should always keep others informed about your travel plans.
You might not have cell phone coverage or access to the internet to send a message back home. International travel has become clouded by diplomatic interference given the testing times we are living under. Keeping others in the loop might just come in handy when you are experiencing a problem abroad and are not being able to communicate the same.
The Final Word
Even though we know that international travel is not the safest and wisest thing to do, there might be multiple pressing concerns forcing us to do the same. For some, it would be about going back home to their families. For others, it can be about employment and income opportunities. For a third set, it can be because of medical reasons.
No matter that the reason you have to undertake international travel, it is best that you keep the above seven points in your head. They will ensure that your international travel is as stress-free and easy as possible. If you have any other points you would like to add to the article, mention them in the comments section below.
Read Also:
Why You Should Move To San Diego
Top 3 Party Destinations For Safety-Conscious Tourism
5 Secrets On How To Travel Light – Travel Hacks
Related
Attractive section of content. I just stumbled upon your blog and in accession capital to assert that I get actually enjoyed account your blog posts. Anyway I will be subscribing to your augment and even I achievement you access consistently fast.