I was born and raised in the Rift Valley, and particularly in Nakuru town. During my childhood days, it was believed that Menengai Crater fires were lit by ghosts, in the form of short, built men. We all knew that the Menengai Crater was not just any other ordinary place, but demon-possessed. And for years, I was scared at the very mention of Menengai Crater. I couldn’t even think of visiting the place! Menengai is therefore commonly referred to as “Kirima kia Ngoma” by the locals to mean “Place of Devils” or “Place of Many Gods.”
Many years later, I have come across several online stories that claim Menengai Crater is a worthwhile place to visit. To prove this for myself, I decided to plan my visit to the Menengai Crater with Adequate Safaris. I had to witness the goodness so clearly spelled out in all the stories I had been reading online.
I still remember my visit to Menengai Crater as if it were yesterday. Here is a complete guide of what to expect at Menengai Crater, based on my experience there.
Where is Menengai Crater Located?
I know most of you may ask where Menengai Crater is located. Well, worry that! I am here to answer your daunting queries regarding Menengai Crater. Menengai Crater is the second largest caldera in Africa, after Ngorongoro Crater, and is located just on the edge of Nakuru in the Great Rift Valley. We drove about 170 kilometres from Nairobi to Nakuru town, taking us about 2.5 to 3 hours to get there. Domestic flights are available from Nairobi to Nakuru for those looking for a faster option. The crater was also about 10 kilometres from Nakuru town, which was a 20 to 30-minute drive.
Upon our arrival at the crater, I was taken aback by its huge size. We were informed by the guide that the crater has a diameter of about 12 kilometres, that is, 7.5 miles, and is among the most perfectly formed calderas worldwide.
I was even more fascinated by Menengai Crater’s history. Menengai Crater, which is dormant, is the remnant of the volcanic eruption that occurred about 400 years ago, that is around 1850 AD. The last major eruption of the Menengai occurred in 1910.
Menengai Crater is located at an altitude of 2,490 metres (8,169 feet) above sea level. The crater’s floor is approximately 243 metres (800 feet) below the rim. The views from Menengai Crater’s viewpoint were to die for. Absolutely stunning. From here, the views of Lake Nakuru were jaw-dropping, making our day trip one to savor for a lifetime. I also got to see as far as Lake Bogoria, as the skies were clear on the day we visited Menengai Crater.
Off we went on a hike in Menengai Crater. Hiking Menengai Crater took us approximately 4 to 5 hours. I found the trek on Menengai Crater quite challenging owing to its steep terrain. As a result, I would recommend that physical and mental preparedness are crucial for successfully hiking Menengai Crater.
Which Animals Can You See at Menengai Crater?
Some of the animals I got to spot while at Menengai Crater include:
- Black-faced vervet monkeys
- Baboons
- Mammals such as Kirk’s dik-dik
- Slender Moongose
- Mountain Reedbuck
- Hyenas
- Buffaloes
- Duikers
- Birds such as the African Marsh Harrier
- Verreaux eagle
- Abyssinian ground hornbill
- Snakes are also present in the area
Historical Significance of Menengai Crater
At Menengei Crater, the Ilaikipiak Moran were defeated by the Ilpurko Masai during a fight over grazing land. Those defeated were thrown over the edge of the crater, leading to locals referring to it as the “place of corpses.” The fumes in the crater are thought to be the souls of the dead thrown into the crater, trying to get to heaven. Actually, the locals prefer not going near its edges.
It was interesting to find out that Menengai Crater is a very spiritual place where people come to spend time praying and contemplating. People who have spent time at the crater have reported experiencing the presence of God. I personally felt so at ease and in touch with my creator while in the Menengai Crater. While people say that Menengai Crater is haunted by evil spirits that take people captive. How true that is, I cannot say! All I felt while in the crater was peace and an escape in the wild.
What immediately captured my imagination was the phobia Menengai Crater creates among the locals. For instance, there were speculations that people had disappeared after touring the crater, with others returning while totally confused. Eyewitnesses reported seeing spirits cultivating, planting, and harvesting the land on the crater floor, all within an hour. How peculiar is that! I know! Other witnesses indicate seeing a flying umbrella rising from the floor of the crater whenever it rains. Menengai Crater does seem like a truly intriguing destination to visit. The number of cars parked at the crater’s gate is a true testament that the scenic caldera has proven its worth over time.
Activities at Menengai Crater
You can engage in various exciting activities at Menengai Crater. First, you can enjoy camping in the caldera and enjoy the breathtaking views of the rising sun over the crater’s rim. Camping in Menengai Crater will give you an opportunity to immerse yourself in the peaceful surroundings while enjoying the beauty of nature.
Birdwatching is also an amazing activity you can experience in Menengai Crater. Menengai Crater is home to over 200 bird species, making it a paradise for bird lovers like myself. While trekking on the crater’s trails, I got a chance to spot colorful birds such as the Africa peid wagtail, Rüppell’s vulture, and Fischer’s starling.
The opportunity to immerse myself in the culture of the local communities living around Menengai Crater was out of this world. I really loved learning about the cultural heritage of the local communities in the area. During my day trip to Menengai Crater, I visited a nearby village to learn about their traditional practices, art, and crafts. When visiting the local communities living around Menengai Crater, you can also engage in their cultural events and performances, making your experience an absolute 10 out of 10.
Main Attractions at Menengai Crater
Surrounded by lush vegetation and rolling hills, Menengai Crater offers tourists breathtaking views that are worth every dime! Some of the main attractions at Menengai Crater include:
- The Scenic views overlooking the crater’s rim. The expansive vistas stretching across the caldera and surrounding landscapes are picturesque, making it ideal for nature and photography lovers.
- The hiking and nature trails in the crater give you a chance to explore the expansive caldera, while fully immersed in the surrounding savannahs and forests as you encounter a wide array of flora and fauna.
- The natural hot springs in the Menengai Crater, which will allow you to relax and unwind in the warm waters while enjoying the tranquillity of the crater.
- The Geothermal Development Company (GDC), found on the floor of the crater, where the Menengai Geothermal Project is being established in four phases, is also a spectacular sight to see at the Menengai Crater. The potential of the Menengai Geothermal Project is approximately 1600MW.
What is The Best Time to Visit Menengai Crater?
The best time to visit Menengai Crater is during the dry season, that is, between January and February, and June and October. During the dry season, you can enjoy good visibility owing to the clear skies and passable trails. While the crater is accessible all year round, the rains can make the trails slippery, making the hiking or trekking experience on Menengai Crater quite challenging. I visited Menengai Crater, Nakuru, in August, and I can assure you that my experience there was out of this world. Visiting Menengai Crater during the dry season allowed me to enjoy various activities such as hiking to the floor of the caldera, bird watching, visiting caves in the crater, and picnicking. For top-notch photography and scenic views of the Great Rift Valley, early morning and late evening are ideal.
Menengai Crater Day Trip Itinerary
An Adequate Safaris driver guide will pick you up at 6.00 am at a central pick-up point and depart for Menengai Crater. You will then stop at the viewpoint along the Nairobi-Nakuru highway to enjoy the striking views of the Great Rift Valley and also buy some souvenirs to ensure your trip is memorable. You will then continue with your journey, heading to the Menengai Forest Station Gate, where you will arrive at around 10.00 am. You will then begin your hike, which will take approximately 4 to 5 hours. After your hike, you will take your packed lunch at around 3.30 pm. You will then begin your journey back to Nairobi at around 6.30 pm. You will return to Nairobi full of good vibes and amazing memories.
The Menengai Full-Day Hiking Tour Cost is inclusive of:
- Picnic lunch box
- A professional guide for the hike.
- All park entry fees to the crater, taxes, and service charges.
- Transfer to and from your hotel.
- Professional English
The Menengai Crater Full-Day Hiking Tour is Exclusive of:
- Drinks
- Gratuity and tips
- Travel insurance
- International flights
- Visa fees
- Personal expenses such as transfers to and from the airport.
- Optional activities such as sightseeing.
What To Carry When Going to Menengai Crater
Have you ever gone on a trip and found yourself lacking the most important gear or attire? Lacking necessities on a trip can be among the most frustrating experiences. Trust me, I have been there!
As such, to ensure that your trip to Menengai Crater is top-notch and worthwhile, here is a breakdown of some of the things you definitely should carry:
- Comfortable hiking or walking shoes
- A wide-brimmed hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses for protection against the sun.
- Insect repellent.
- Sufficient snacks
- A camera to capture pictures of the scenic landscapes and stunning wildlife.
- A pair of binoculars to allow you a close-up view of landscapes and wildlife.
- A light jacket for protection against the wind, or in case of light showers.
- Identification card or passport
- Cash for entry fees.
Menengai Crater Tickets
Menengai Crater Entrance tickets are purchased at the Kenya Forest Service entrance. As of 2022, the Menengai Crater tickets cost around KShs 500-800 for residents/non-residents. Guided hikes and tours may cost between KShs 2,999 for Kenyan citizens and $79 for foreigners. It is necessary for visitors entering Menengai Crater to have an armed guide while entering the caldera, as per the requirements of the Kenya Forest Service. The Menengai Crater’s last eruption was in 1910. However, the volcano is active and closely monitored, and the Kenya Forest Service requires visitors to be accompanied by guides, who can be hired at the Menengai Crater gate at an extra cost of KShs 1,000 for adults and KShs 500 for children.
Final Thoughts
Menengai Crater is more than a scenic stop, where culture, nature, and adventure meet. Whether you are a hiker, a photographer, or just a traveller, Menengai Crater deserves a spot on your itinerary when you decide to visit the Rift Valley. At Menengai Crater, you will get to experience the jaw-dropping views of the volcanic caldera, learn about the local myths associated with it, witness the geothermal project, and spot a diverse array of wildlife.
Why should you trust Adequate Safaris to plan your full-day trip to Menengai Crater, you might ask? At Adequate Safaris, we are committed to ensuring that your trip to Menengai Crater is fun-packed and worth every dime. Our skilled tour consultants ensure that your trip is carefully planned by crafting a personalized itinerary to ensure your experience at Menengai Crater is unparalleled. All you are required to do is contact Adequate Safaris at de***@*************is.com to provide us with details of how many people you are travelling with and the preferred dates to ensure that we plan a day-trip to Menengai Crater that is more than you could imagine. Wait no more! Contact us at de***@*************is.com.
