After returning from our safari to Iringa, we hiked to Gangilonga Rock and learned about its cultural significance to the Hehe people. The guide explained that Gangilonga is a Hehe compound noun made up of two words: “liganga,” which means “the stone,” and “liloganga,” meaning “which speaks.” The translation is “the stone that speaks.” The large stone served as both a place of worship and a strategic overlook to view all of Iringa.
After returning from our safari to Iringa, we hiked to Gangilonga Rock and learned about its cultural significance to the Hehe people. The guide explained that Gangilonga is a Hehe compound noun made up of two words: “liganga,” which means “the stone,” and “liloganga,” meaning “which speaks.” The translation is “the stone that speaks.” The large stone served as both a place of worship and a strategic overlook to view all of Iringa.
After our hike, we had some free time. During this time, many participated in one last game of soccer before donating the ball to a local coach.
Others spent the last of their shillings on more carvings or trinkets from the local carver, Paul.
Harrison served our final fresh meal from the Lutheran Center, which consisted of cucumber soup, rice, spaghetti noodles, beef and bean soup, and vegetables. We appreciated the center's amazing hospitality during our stay in Iringa!
Into the night and early in the morning, everyone completed their packing to ensure their carvings, gifts, and gear made the journey home safely.
We all woke up early to load the bus and hit the road by 6 a.m. The drive took about 13 hours, and people passed the time by singing karaoke, watching shows or movies, playing word games, and sleeping.
After the bus ride, we stopped for dinner at Bao Cafe near the airport and then began our journey through the skies back to America.
- Blog post by Adam, Carly, and Jordan
