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Water from Mount Kilimanjaro helps sustain life on the plateau

Straddling the border of Kenya and Tanzania, Africa's tallest peak, the legendary Mount Kilimanjaro, soars high above the savannah like an ancient god. Stretching out from the base of the mountain is the Amboseli National Park. Covered with dry, whitish volcanic ash, the park is dotted with wetlands formed by spring water. Fed by water from Kilimanjaro that slowly infiltrates over the years, these springs attract numerous elephants and other denizens of the savannah, creating a veritable wildlife paradise. To the east of Amboseli National Park, lie the Tsavo East and West National Parks, which are also sanctuaries for large numbers of wildlife. Unlike Amboseli, the ground in Tsavo is covered with a fine red dust, giving rise to the fascinating sight of "pink elephants." This is the result of the elephants soaking themselves and playing in water mixed with the red dust. When the animals dry, they are coated in dust, making them look pink.

The hills of northern Kenya provide a home to the reticulated giraffe and Grevy's zebra

North of Mount Kenya, in the Samburu National Reserve, the landscape is dominated by rolling hills. This area is home to a variety of animals seldom seen in other areas, such as the reticulated giraffe. As the name implies, the coat of the reticulated giraffe is marked by a pattern of lines that resemble a network, making it clearly distinguishable from other giraffes. Another large mammal unique to this area is the Grevy's zebra. Considered an endangered species, Grevy's zebras have narrower stripes than standard zebras and also have a sturdy build. Another notable species found mostly here in northern Kenya is the long-necked gerenuk, which is known for its unusual habit of eating leaves while standing upright on its hind legs.

From herbivores to carnivores, the wild animals live in harmony with the natural order

Lying within the enormous Great Rift Valley, which runs north to south through eastern Africa for some 5,000 km (3,000 miles), the Masai Mara National Reserve is located east of Lake Victoria. One of the best-known and popular game reserves in Africa, this is literally a wildlife paradise. Large herds of wildebeests, Thomson's gazelles, and Grant's zebras can be seen wandering across the great savannah that extends as far as the eye can reach. Lurking in the bushes, lions lie in ambush, waiting for the right moment to strike. Even the trees hold danger, as leopards hide in the branches, hoping to catch the herbivores off their guard. In water holes, hippopotamuses rest peacefully with only their eyes, ears, and noses protruding above the surface of water. Out in the open, ostriches race across the grasslands at speeds of more than 50 km (30 miles) per hour. To the north of Masai Mara is Lake Nakuru National Park, where one to two million flamingos nestle along the shores. When seen from a distance, the lake surface looks as if it has been dyed pink. The lake is also a sanctuary for the white rhinoceros, as well as the critically endangered black rhinoceros. The rhinos live along the lake's shore.

A natural world "so filled with happiness and joy," it should be preserved for all time

As Iwago observed and photographed the animals of Africa in their natural environment, it became clear to him how well they adapt themselves to their environment there and how they live each day without compromising their true natures. "They looked healthy and beautiful," said Iwago. "I can't help but hope that this world, so filled with happiness and joy, will last for all time."

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