Isimila

I took a dala dala (minivan) to Isimila, around twenty kilometres from Iringa. This is known as an archaeological site with many artefacts and tools dug up from the Stone Age, testifying to the ancient history of human activity in Iringa.

Of more visual appeal are the natural formations of the Isimila eroded sandstone pillars, occupying a river bed adjacent to the location of the prehistoric settlement. These were fascinating to walk around, following the course of a small sandy river. This alternately flash floods and dries quickly depending on the length of time since rain. Despite recent deluges the river bed was mostly navigable on foot, except for a few hilarious quicksand moments.

I had a guide from the office of the government agency that manages the site. She prevented me getting lost among the channels and pillars but was mainly interested in using my phone to call a guy she was buying some seeds from, who she says was ignoring calls from her own number. Despite the distraction we made it back to the office after a very unique visit, and I trudged back to the main road to flag down a passing dala dala.