Rich History of East Africa

Are you ready to visit the ultimate Motherland? Did you know that the East African region, particularly Olduvai Gorge on the eastern Serengeti Plain, is known as the "Cradle of Mankind"? Nestled within the Ngorongoro Conservation Area in northern Tanzania, this remarkable site provides the most recent evidence suggesting that all of humankind originated from this area before migrating across the globe.

East Africa is a treasure trove of rich history and traditions, making it a must-visit destination. Here’s a glimpse into what makes East Africa so extraordinary:

The Nile River

The Nile, the longest river in the world (just surpassing the Amazon), is one of the most densely populated areas on Earth with more than 370 million people dependent on its water. It currently runs through 11 different countries, offering a lifeline to the region's diverse ecosystems and communities. This East African river is more than 5 miles wide; 4,175 miles long; and believed to be around 30 million years old.

The Sahara Desert

Reaching into Sudan, the Sahara is not only the world’s hottest desert but also one of the most challenging environments, showcasing the raw and rugged beauty of East Africa. With an area of 3,600,000 square miles, it is the third-largest desert in the world, smaller only than the deserts of Antarctica and the northern Arctic.

Iconic Wildlife

East Africa is home to the largest (elephant), fastest (cheetah), and tallest (giraffe) animals on the planet. The elephant can weigh over six tons, the cheetah sprints up to 60 mph, and male giraffes can tower up to 6 meters (about 20 feet) tall.

While we’re discussing African wildlife, we can’t skip Africa’s Big Five. The term "Big Five" refers to the five largest African mammal species: lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants, and African buffalo. The term was coined by big-game hunters over 100 years ago to describe the animals as difficult and dangerous to hunt on foot.

Colonial History

Once under British control, Kenya, Uganda, Zanzibar, and Tanganyika (now Tanzania) are all part of the East African Community (EAC), a testament to the region’s complex and intertwined history. Founded in 1967, the organization collapsed in 1977 but was revived on July 7, 2000. The primary goal of the East African Community (EAC) is to promote regional economic integration.

Dramatic Landscapes

East Africa boasts the highest elevation on the continent, featuring vast plateaus. The two of the highest mountains in Africa are Mount Kilimanjaro and Mount Kenya. Mount Kilimanjaro is a dormant volcano in Tanzania. It has 3 volcanic cones and is the highest single free-standing mountain in the world above sea level at 19,341 ft. Mount Kenya is an extinct volcano in Kenya and is the second highest peak in Africa standing at 17,057 ft.

The Great Rift Valley

The Great Rift Valley stretches from the Red Sea to the Gulf of Aden, traversing the Ethiopian Highlands and extending into Tanzania. Several deep, elongated lakes, called ribbon lakes, exist on the floor of this rift valley. At its heart lies Lake Victoria, a vital resource that supports the economies of Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. The region has a unique ecosystem and contains a number of Africa's wildlife parks.

Lake Victoria

As the largest tropical lake in the world and the largest in Africa's Great Lakes region, Lake Victoria is a crucial resource for the surrounding countries and a stunning natural wonder. Lake Victoria sits within a shallow depression in Africa, with an average depth of 130 feet and reaching a maximum depth of 262 to 266 feet.

Lalibela’s Rock-Hewn Churches

Located in Ethiopia, these remarkable churches were carved from rock between the 7th and 13th centuries. Often referred to as the "New Jerusalem," these architectural marvels are still in use today and offer a glimpse into a bygone era.

Kilwa

Once a powerful city along the East African coast, Kilwa was destroyed by the Portuguese in 1503. Today, it is home to ancient palace ruins and royal buildings, providing a serene and less crowded exploration experience.

The Masai Tribe

Known for their vibrant culture, striking red hair, and impressive husbandry and warrior skills, the nomadic Masai Tribe frequently moves between Kenya and Tanzania, offering a fascinating insight into their way of life.

In addition to its historical and cultural riches, East Africa is renowned for its national parks and stunning beaches. Immerse yourself in the history and natural beauty of this glorious region, and you'll leave feeling connected (or reconnected) to Mother Earth. Upon your return, you'll have countless stories to share about the spectacular experience that is a vacation in East Africa.