The Wahba Crater is one of the most spectacular sights in Saudi Arabia
How was Wahba Crater formed?
There are two theories on how the Wahba Crater was made. Most people believe the crater was made by volcanic activity in the form of an underground explosion, caused by the hot lava coming into contact with underground water, this caused a massive explosion leaving the crater. The second theory, which has no scientific foundation due to no evidence, there is no trace of Shocked Quartz or high levels of iridium, is that it was formed by a meteorite. The crater is a 1.3 km wide circle and the sides are 200 m high.
Why is the bottom white?
There is an underground water source, which has a high salt content. The spring comes to the surface about half way down the east side. So the Wahba Crater bottom is covered in white sodium phosphate crystals.
Location
It is located in Saudi Arabia western part, 22°54'4"N 41°8'29"E
Climate
Temp max 44 c in summer (in shade), man 15 c in winter
Rain is very rare
No body reports any dangerous animals
Access
You need about 1 hour to go down and about 2 hour to climb back up.
You have to be reasonably psychically fit, and not push yourself beyong your capabilities, most folk can get up and down in their own time.VERY IMPORTANT, don't forget to take lot of water, because you can dehydrate easily.
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