Geology of National Parks of Central/Southern Kenya and Northern Tanzania

This book describes the interrelationship between the spectacular geology of an area of East Africa that includes a branch of the rift valley, as well as giant freestanding ice-capped mountains and extraordinarily toxic, alkaline lakes, and some of the greatest concentrations of wildlife on Earth. It suggests that geological processes that have shaped the iconic landforms, including active volcanoes, may also be responsible for the unusually diverse speciation which characterises the region. Moreover, it is not a coincidence that important palaeoanthropological discoveries have been unearthed in the region. National parks and conservation areas have tremendous potential for geotourism and the book assists both tour guides and visitors in this regard. In addition, the book may provide a better understanding to management of the importance of geology for sustaining wildlife.

“The volume is extremely well illustrated, with excellent photographs and clear illustrative diagrams. … Anyone interested in East Africa, the geology of volcanoes, or the relationships between geology, geomorphology or wildlife should consider purchasing this volume.” (Rob Bowell, Geoscientist, November, 2019)


“More than just a general geologic guide to national parks, this book nicely summarizes the regional geology of the eastern arm of the East African Rift system. … The explanations are enriched by numerous maps, satellite images, diagrams, and field photos, all in color. … Summing Up: Recommended. Advanced undergraduates through faculty and professionals.” (B. M. Simonson, Choice, Vol. 54 (04), December, 2018)​

“The main theme of the book is the extraordinary interrelationships between the geology and spectacular landforms of the area and the wide diversity of associated fauna and flora, which include some of the largest concentrations of wildlife remaining on Earth. … For anyone planning a visit to this part of Africa, the whole experience will be enriched by having this book as your travel guide/companion. For those not planning on a visit, perhaps this book will change your mind.” (Clyde Mallinson, Geobulletin, Vol. 61, December, 2018)

Roger Scoon was born in Bristol, England, and grew up in a rural village in north Somerset.  After obtaining bachelors (1976) and masters (1976) degrees in the Department of Mineral Exploitation at University College, Cardiff, he worked for three years as a mine geologist in Zambia.   A doctorate at Rhodes University, Grahamstown (1985) initiated a life-time passion for the platinum and chromite deposits of the Bushveld Complex, South Africa.   Apart from a short stint as a field geologist in Namibia, Roger spent the bulk of his career as an exploration geologist in the Bushveld Complex, including as a principal and director of Platexco Incorporated, a Toronto-listed junior explorer.  The successful Winnaarshoek project (Marula mine), where Roger was responsible for surface mapping, refurbishing and sampling old mine workings, running an extensive drilling program, and the bankable feasibility was purchased by Impala Platinum in 2001.  Roger has published a number of scientific articles in local and international journals, mostly on the Bushveld Complex.  Visits to the national parks of East Africa over many years, including trekking on the giant volcanic cones led to an interest in the East Africa Rift System.  Short descriptions of geosites from localities around the world, including East Africa, published in the quarterly journal, The Geobulletin, since 2010 have led to a new interest as “The Geotraveller”.   Roger has led many geological field trips, most recent of which were to the Eastern Limb of the Bushveld Complex and National Parks of northern Tanzania for the 35^th International Geological Congress (2016).  Roger is a Senior Researcher at Rhodes University and has acted as an external examiner for the Masters programme in Exploration Geology since 1988.  He is a Fellow of the Geological Society of South Africa (FGSSA), the Society of Economic Geologist (FSEG), and the GeologicalSociety of London (FGS).  Other passions include skippering the family yacht, “Makoma” in the Eastern Mediterranean, as well as football, bridge, and wildlife photography.  Roger is a South African citizen and lives with his wife Amelia in the largely unspoilt Garden Route of the Western Cape.