Messum Crater, Volcanic crater in Dorob National Park, Namibia
The Messum Crater forms a circular structure with two concentric rings of hills surrounding a flat basin measuring 18 to 25 kilometers in diameter.
The crater emerged during the separation of Gondwana approximately 130 million years ago, creating one of the largest basalt formations on the African continent.
Stone circles within the crater plain indicate the presence of ancient Damara nomadic communities who utilized this area for their settlements.
Visitors require a permit from the Ministry of Environment and Tourism, and only 4x4 vehicles can navigate the unpaved, rocky roads leading to the site.
The crater contains extensive lichen fields with over 100 species that take 100 years to grow just one millimeter in this hyper-arid environment.
Location: Erongo Region
GPS coordinates: -21.41667,14.21667
Latest update: March 4, 2025 21:13
Twyfelfontein
92.8 km
The White Lady
57.5 km
Dorob National Park
78.7 km
Königstein
47.9 km
Petrified forest, Khorixas
116.2 km
Woermann House
144.1 km
Hohenzollern Building
144.3 km
Verbrannter Berg
90.9 km
National Marine Aquarium of Namibia
144.6 km
Museum Swakopmund
143.7 km
Marine-Denkmal
143.8 km
Leuchtturm Swakopmund
143.7 km
Evangelical Lutheran Church
144 km
Bushman Paradise Cave
151.6 km
Robbenreservat Kreuzkap
46.8 km
Altes Gefängnis
143.4 km
The Dome
142.7 km
Swakopbrücke
145.2 km
Zisabspitze
53.4 km
OMEG-Haus
143.6 km
Okenyenya
132 km
Kramersdorf Building
144.4 km
State House (Swakopmund)
143.8 km
Spitzkoppe National Park
110.1 km
Rossmund Desert Golf Course
145 km
Uibasen Twyfelfontein Conservancy
98.3 km
Swakop Bridge
145.4 km
Old Barracks
144.3 kmReviews
Visited this place? Tap the stars to rate it and share your experience / photos with the community! Try now! You can cancel it anytime.
Discover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes