Olmoti Crater, Extinct volcanic crater in Ngorongoro District, Tanzania.
Olmoti Crater is an extinct volcanic crater in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area with steep walls and a flat floor covered in grassland. The crater bottom is crossed by the Munge River and surrounded by forested slopes that drop down from the rim.
The crater formed from ancient volcanic activity and has been dormant for a very long time. Over millennia, the stable conditions allowed grasslands and forests to establish themselves, creating the landscape visitors see today.
The name comes from the Maasai language and refers to the crater's shape, which resembles a large cooking pot. You can sense this cultural connection while exploring the landscape and learning how local communities have traditionally related to this place.
Reaching the crater floor involves a moderate hike that starts from the access road and passes through forested areas. Bring sturdy hiking shoes since the path can be uneven, and carry enough water for the climb down and back up.
The Munge Waterfall plunges from the western rim and creates a surprising water feature at this elevation. This water source sustains the grasslands and wildlife below, allowing antelopes and elands to thrive in what would otherwise be a drier landscape.
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