Zebra Rocks On Mount Kilimanjaro
Zebra Rocks On Mount Kilimanjaro : Zebra rock is the set of big volcanic rocks found on the Marangu route! The rocks have stripes that resemble the patterns found on zebras. It is one of the top places/attraction to go and visit after getting to Horombo Camp. Zebra rocks, which are primarily lava cliffs, were created when mineral-rich rainwater ran down on the rocks and partially turned them white or black in some areas.
For an acclimatization trek, the rocks serve as the destination. In the six-day Marangu route, climbers have the choice of hiking to the rocks to acclimate to the high altitude before returning to the Horombo huts.
HOW WAS THE ZEBRA ROCK ON KILIMANJARO FORMED?
The formation of the Zebra Rocks Rainwater enriched with minerals that fell on the rocks that originated from the lava cliff caused them to become patterned in black and white, giving rise to the Zebra Rocks.
WHAT TO DO THERE
Hiking, picnics, or the usual photo sessions.
BEST TIME TO VISIT
Every year, from July to February, when the weather is warmer and less likely to rain, more trekking time is available.
LOCATION OF ZEBRA ROCKS
Zebra rocks are located on the trail leading to Mawenzi campground, about a half-climb hour from Horombo huts.
The route to Kibo huts also runs nearby. Zebra rocks, like Horombo huts, are located at the line separating the mountain’s moorland and alpine desert zones. There are some tiny animals, including birds and rodents, in the area, and it does get some rain.
HOW TO GET THERE
By hiking only.
HOW TO VISIT AND EXPLORE ZEBRA ROCKS
In a three-day Mount Kilimanjaro climbing program, Zebra Rocks can be reached via the Marangu route. The itinerary for three days of zebra rock climbing on Mount Kilimanjaro is provided below.
DAY 01: DRIVE TO MARANGU GATE; HIKE TO MANDARA HUT
After breakfast and orientation, travel (approximately an hour) to the Kilimanjaro National Park Gate, register, and start the climb. To reach the Mandara camp, go through the rain forest. It is a good idea to take a side excursion to Maundi Crater to visit the area, which includes Northern Tanzania and Kenya. Look for Colobus monkeys, soaring Eucalyptus trees, and other wildlife in the rainforest.
- Elevation: 1860m/6100ft to 2700m/8875ft
- Distance: 8km/5mi
- Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
- Habitat: montane forest
- Meals included: lunch and dinner
- Budget Accommodations: Mandara Hut
DAY 02: HIKE MANDARA HUT TO HOROMBO HUT (ZEBRA ROCKS)
After leaving the glades of the rainforest, you travel along a trail on the wide moorlands until you reach the Horombo camp. Breathtaking views can be seen from the tops of Kibo and Mawenzi. Watch for enormous groundsels and lobelias. You can start to feel the effects of the elevation.
- Elevation: 2700 m (8875 ft) to 3700 m (12,200 ft)
- Distance: 12km/7.5mi
- Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
- Habitat: Heathland
- Meals included: breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
- Budget Accommodations: Horombo Hut
DAY 03: HIKE FROM HOROMBO HUT TO PARK GATE, RETURN TO MOSHI
After breakfast, we make our way through moorland on a slow descent to the Mandara Hut. Follow the trail that descends through the lush woodland until you reach the Marangu National Park gate. It could be muddy and damp at lower altitudes. Trekking poles and gaiters will be useful. Most likely, there will be enough to wear: shorts and t-shirts (keep rain gear and warmer clothing handy). When you arrive at Marangu village, a vehicle will be waiting to pick you up and take you back to Moshi town (about an hour away).
- Elevation: 3700m/12,200ft to 1700m/5500ft
- Distance: 20km/12.5mi
- Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
- Habitat: Forest
- Meals included: breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
- Budget Accommodations: Masailand Lodge, Arusha
