I can moan about many things in this world, but I’m also able to enjoy what I get. I have days of boring flights of course, days where I wish I could fly cargo only or even better just empty and light to have fun with the aircraft. But this country, with all its annoying factors, has an incredible scenery amongst other things. Some expats here have lived in the country and hardly left Arusha, went maybe once for an easy safari, brought a few pictures so they can brag “been there, done that” but have spent the rest of their time moaning about the bad roads, the corrupt cops, the delays and the rest, let’s stay politically correct. Their experience will be pretty negative…We could argue that if the colonial times had been a bit different and since then, the bloody IMF or World Bank a lot different, things could be much better. Now these expats, and I’m one of them of course, have their reasons to complain. But let’s make the best out of it. These stories will be present for the rest of our lives like army stories, so let’s make more stories to remember, positive ones this time. And that’s valid in many countries. Like: go on safari more often, or just for a picnic, go for a walk around Arusha, get your drawing kit or your camera or just your fresh eyes and see, and enjoy what you see. I have a privilege being a pilot: I see a lot. And I love it. Though some flights are only worth of one image sometimes.
Towering at nearly 15000 feet (4500m), here are a few images of Mt Meru, near Arusha. One of the top 5 highest mountains in Africa.
Arusha spreading at its foot, and high up too unfortunately, destroying the old forest and habitat…demographic pressure as usual.
driving a bit further from Arusha…and it looks remote very quickly.
some views of the top under different light or weather conditions.
once in a while a storm will whiten the top. It doesn’t last long unfortunately.
aerial shot: the dark hills on the foreground are parts of Mt Monduli. Then Meru in the middle. Kilimanjaro in the distance.
sunrise shot from the top of the volcano Oldoinyo Lengai, after a night climb. What a reward to arrive a bit exhausted on top around 6am and view this scenery. Kilimanjaro on the left side, Meru on the right side.
one early morning, getting ready for paragliding.
just before sunset, after a thunderstorm.
“better a bad day of flying than a good day in the office”…just making some friends.
Great pics! This place looks really adventurous and thrilling,thanks for sharing.
Posted by: Night Safari Thailand | 24 July 2012 at 08:49 AM