Al Waba Crater

"250m deep and 2km large / Bottom is covered with white sodium phosphate crystals In volcanic terms it is a ‘Maar Crater’ formed by a phreatic eruption thousands & thousands of years ago (hot magma came into contact with ground water producing a steam explosion). What is left is a broad low relief crater which often captures water. From the surface you can’t see much, it’s only when you get close and can look over the edge down into the crater does it’s magnificence show itself to you. In basic terms it’s a massive hole in the ground. Being 250m deep and 2km wide, it is certainly not insignificant. Many people drive to the visitor centre (which is easily accessible on a tarmac road) and enjoy the dramatic view from one of the several picnic spots along the western rim. For those more adventurous there is a path down to the bottom which starts a little bit north of the visitor centre. The path is very steep & rocky, and there are many big steps down. It meanders and traverses, zig-zagging the side of the crater for over 900m. On average it takes 60mins to get down and 90mins to come back up. This varies greatly person to person but is a good starting point for planning purposes. Whilst it may be cold at the top, the temperature rises you go down because it’s very sheltered. Most people either go down first thing in the morning or late afternoon. Best to avoid high summer as it’s so incredibly hot then. Taking water and some sort of energizing food is also recommended."