The Al-Wahba crater: a geological jewel hidden in the Saudi desert

Its formation

Although the enormous hole appears to have been dug by the impact of a gigantic meteor, this is not the case. Its formation is purely volcanic, more precisely a Maar crater. This term refers to a crater formed by a volcanic explosion. The explosion is caused by the meeting of rising magma and groundwater, creating an enormous quantity of steam. This vapour is trapped within the volcano, causing an enormous rise in pressure that eventually gives way in an explosion, with rocks being thrown out in the same way as a champagne cork.

The lake

At its centre is the site's main attraction: the lake, which is entirely covered in white. This immaculate layer is actually salt, or rather phosphate crystals that have been building up here for years and years. As for the water, it's just rainwater. It is this meeting between this very common water and this unique geological formation that has contributed to the accumulation of salt.

Its perfectly round shape, similar to a meteorite impact, and the accumulation of white crystals create a lunar landscape that is well worth seeing.

Getting to the crater

Unlike other volcanoes in the world, you don't need a guide to get to the Al-Wahba crater. What's more, unlike other places of interest in the country, you don't need a 4x4 to get there. The road to the volcano is completely tarmacked, even from Taif, the nearest large town, a 2.5-hour drive away. There is a car park just 5 m from the edge of the crater, so you don't even have to walk to see it.

Descending into the crater

For the more adventurous, however, descending into the crater requires a little more effort. A steep pebble path leads directly to the foot of the white lake. It takes 1h30 to descend, compared with 2h30 to climb back up. The route is far from a gentle path, and you'll have to be prepared to hold on to things just about everywhere to get to the end of this steep path. The walk around the lake is a great objective, taking 3 hours to complete. The Al-Wahba Crater is still one of those rare natural monuments not covered by fences or prohibitions. Few people visit it, so it's reasonable to let tourists experience it as they wish. Feel free to touch, dance or run on this unusually textured lake. Leaving your mark on this crumbly, thousand-year-old salt is a unique experience.

As I said earlier, there are no restrictions, so it's completely possible to pitch your tent in the centre of the crater. As well as being a completely unusual place to sleep, the conditions are just right for an extraordinary night. The silence of the desert is utterly exhilarating. Added to this is the absence of light pollution in such a remote area, making it an ideal spot to admire the stars. It's the perfect place to cut yourself off from the world, and there's no network anyway.

Around 10 minutes from the crater is the Harrat Kishb volcano. This is a volcanic field over two million years old. Covering an area of 5,900 km², it is impossible to miss. It may be worth making a diversion here when passing near the Al-Wahba Crater.

🚌 Getting there: Although access to the crater is extremely easy, the only way to get there is by car.

⏰ Times: Day or night, the crater awaits you

⌚ When to go? Given the extreme temperatures in the area and the difficulty of the descent, it's best to get there early or late in the day or even during the winter. In summer temperatures reach 50 degrees.