Tswaing Meteorite Crater - Image 1
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Tswaing Meteorite Crater

3.6
·37 reviews·Soshanguve, South Africa

Explore Tswaing, a remarkably preserved 220,000-year-old meteorite crater with a unique saline lake.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Cooler mornings

Beat the heat and mosquitoes

CrowdLow
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Tswaing Meteorite Crater - Image 1

Tswaing Meteorite Crater

Best Time

Cooler mornings

Beat the heat and mosquitoes

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore Tswaing, a remarkably preserved 220,000-year-old meteorite crater with a unique saline lake.

3.6
(37 reviews)

"A truly unique geological wonder, but be prepared for the mosquitoes!"

Vertical photo
TIP

Pack Mosquito Repellent!

Seriously, bring lots of it. The mosquitoes are no joke, especially when descending into the crater. :smilingfacewith_tear::

Check Opening Hours

Hours can vary. Some visitors were turned away when arriving later than expected. :clock1::

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Crater Rim

The Crater Rim

Viewpoint near the entrance

Gaze upon the vast, ancient impact site, a testament to cosmic forces shaping our planet.

The Saline Lake

The Saline Lake

Crater floor

Discover the unique, salt-rich lake at the bottom of the crater, a surprising ecosystem.

Nature Trails

Nature Trails

Surrounding reserve

Explore diverse plant life and bird species on well-maintained trails around the crater.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

Check operating hours before you go, as they can change. Some visitors reported arriving to find the site closed earlier than advertised. Plan your visit to avoid disappointment and make the most of your time exploring this ancient geological wonder.

Prepare for the Elements

Mosquitoes can be intense, especially during the descent into the crater. Bring strong insect repellent and consider wearing long sleeves and pants. The area can also get hot, so pack plenty of water and dress in layers.

Best Times

When
Cooler mornings
Why
Beat the heat and mosquitoes
Crowd
Low
When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The meteorite crater near Soshanguve. It's estimated to be over 220 000 years old☄️
@vukile.khulu
64 likes • 3.4K views

Pack Mosquito Repellent!

Seriously, bring lots of it. The mosquitoes are no joke, especially when descending into the crater. :smilingfacewith_tear:: Reddit

Check Opening Hours

Hours can vary. Some visitors were turned away when arriving later than expected. :clock1:: Reddit

#tswaingmeteorcrater #tourist #tourism #pretoria #southafrica #crater
@chichinel0
275 likes • 9.2K views
Visit tswaing nature reserve this festive and time travel back to the days of the dinosaurs🦕
@bakone88
18 likes • 799 views

Bring Plenty of Water

There are no shops inside the park. Stay hydrated, especially on warmer days. :water_ உள்ள:: Reddit

Wear Comfortable Shoes

The hike down to the crater can be steep and uneven. Good walking shoes are a must. :athletic_shoe:: Reddit

A peak into The annual Heritage Month Celebration at DITSONG Tswaing Meteorite Crater #comeexplore #ditsongmuseums #explore #heritageday #fyp #celebration
@ditsongmuseums
45 likes • 1.7K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Pack Mosquito Repellent!

Seriously, bring lots of it. The mosquitoes are no joke, especially when descending into the crater. :smilingfacewith_tear:: Reddit

Check Opening Hours

Hours can vary. Some visitors were turned away when arriving later than expected. :clock1:: Reddit

Bring Plenty of Water

There are no shops inside the park. Stay hydrated, especially on warmer days. :water_ உள்ள:: Reddit

Wear Comfortable Shoes

The hike down to the crater can be steep and uneven. Good walking shoes are a must. :athletic_shoe:: Reddit

Drive Carefully

Expect livestock on the roads leading to the crater. :car:: Reddit

What Travellers Say

3.6
(37 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Tswaing Meteorite Crater is a fascinating geological site with a unique saline lake, offering a glimpse into Earth's ancient past. Visitors appreciate the natural beauty and the educational aspect of the crater. However, the experience can be significantly impacted by a high number of mosquitoes and the need for thorough preparation regarding water and sun protection.

"Well to start off, yesterday (Saterday 23 March 2022) a friend and I drove all the way out there just to be told the the place closed at 14:00 although the internet specifically stated that it only close at 16:00, so we left.

The very next day (Sunday 24 March 2022) we drove all the way back there again. After paying our entrance fee of R40 per person we where told to drive all the way to the picnic site! So we did, but not long after we start our gurney we got stuck in a puddle of water which was quite deep. So our morning didn't start off very good. (See the photos below). When we finally got the the picnic site, we started to walk all the way down to the crater. We where told that there will be mosquitoes but this was no joke! They were in their thousands! Flying all around and biting us! So after all its needless to say we didn't enjoy the hike as much as we anticipated it to be!"

Cobus Viljoen - South Africa

"This is one of those interesting 'off the beaten track' kind of places. The walk from the reception/carpark to the crater rim is an easy 1 to 2km stroll. But it gets a little more strenuous then - taking the entrance to the left down to the waters edge is the simpler route as it is a dirt road and although steep it is far easier than the route to the right past the view point. We walked both routes but regretted not having the knowledge of how difficult the route past the view point becomes as it descends into the crater.
The lake itself is saline and has virtually no life in it although there are ducks swimming around and they seem able to eat the grass growing underwater. So not as saline as the Dead Sea but definitely not fresh water.
We went on a cool day, 20c , but still found it hot so dress in layers and bring water.
Finally the surrounding area is basically a shanty village that goes on for miles so drive carefully, expect goats & cattle on the road, and probably wisest to bring your own water or better yet a cooler box filled with drinks as there are no shops In the park and none outside the park that I felt safe enough to stop at."

Kevinatwork1

"DITSONG:
TSWAING METEORITE CRATER
Some 220 000 years ago a blazing stony meteorite the size of half a football field slammed into the earth’s crust. The impact formed a huge crater, 1.4 km in diameter and 200 m deep. This crater is one of the best-preserved meteorite impact craters in the world.

The name Tswaing means Place of Salt in Setswane, and refers to a saline lake that covers the crater floor. From 1912 to 1950 an industry producing soda ash and salt was based at the crater.

Major attractions, besides the crater, are an extensive wetland system, the large variety of plant species of the Sourish-Mixed Bushveld, and 240 species of birds.
From the start, the Tswaing project has invited community participation in its planning and development.

Local communities have already benefited from the Museum project through job creation, skills training, environmental education, income-generating projects and tourism.

Know Before You Go
Driving north on the R80 towards Soshanguve, turn right on Mopanie Road/M35 and then left onto Soutpan Road. The Tswaing Crater entrance will be to your left, off Soutpan Road. An entry fee grants access to secure parking and a picnic site, with the 7km return trail to the crater starting from there. A permit can be obtained at additional cost to drive up to the crater rim viewpoint to park and start a shortened hike from there."

Dumisani

What People Like

Unique geological formation
Educational value
Birdwatching opportunities

What People Dislike

Intense mosquitoes
Variable opening hours
Lack of facilities

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

To reach the Tswaing Meteorite Crater from Pretoria, drive north on the R80 towards Soshanguve. Turn right onto Mopanie Road/M35, and then left onto Soutpan Road. The entrance will be on your left. Be aware that the surrounding area is densely populated, and you might encounter livestock on the roads, so drive cautiously. Reddit

Information on public transport accessibility is limited. It's generally recommended to travel by private vehicle for ease of access and flexibility. Reddit

The roads leading to the crater can be a mix of paved and unpaved surfaces. Some reviews mention encountering deep puddles after rain, so a vehicle with decent clearance might be beneficial, especially after wet weather. Reddit

Yes, secure parking is available at the reception area and picnic site. You can also obtain a permit to drive closer to the crater rim viewpoint for a shortened hike. Reddit

While specific traffic advice varies, generally heading out earlier in the morning or on weekdays can help avoid peak traffic congestion. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The entrance fee is approximately R40 per person, but it's always a good idea to confirm current pricing. Reddit

Opening hours can vary, and some visitors have reported the site closing earlier than advertised online. It's crucial to check the official DITSONG Museums of South Africa website or call ahead to confirm the exact operating times before your visit. Reddit

Information on advance ticket booking is not widely available. Typically, tickets are purchased upon arrival at the entrance. Reddit

A permit can be obtained at an additional cost to drive up to the crater rim viewpoint, allowing for a shortened hike. Reddit

The entrance fee generally grants access to secure parking. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

The walk from the reception to the crater rim is an easy 1-2 km stroll. Descending to the water's edge involves a steeper dirt road. The route past the viewpoint is more strenuous. Be prepared for mosquitoes. TikTokReddit

Yes, mosquitoes can be a significant issue, especially when descending into the crater. Visitors strongly advise bringing ample insect repellent and wearing protective clothing. TikTokReddit

It's a well-preserved meteorite impact crater, approximately 1.4 km in diameter and 200 m deep, formed over 220,000 years ago. It features a saline lake on its floor. TikTokReddit

The reserve boasts an extensive wetland system, diverse plant species, and around 240 bird species. You might also see ducks on the lake. Reddit

While it offers educational value, the intense mosquitoes and strenuous hikes might be challenging for very young children. Families should be well-prepared with repellent and water. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

No, there are no shops or dining facilities within the Tswaing Meteorite Crater park. It's essential to bring all your own food and drinks. Reddit

Yes, there is a designated picnic site available for visitors. It's a great spot to enjoy a meal surrounded by nature. Reddit

Bring all your food, snacks, and drinks. A cooler box is highly recommended to keep your refreshments cool, especially on a warm day. Reddit

Reviews suggest that the surrounding areas might not feel safe for stopping to buy food. It's best to pack everything you need from home. Reddit

While not explicitly stated, picnic sites often accommodate braai facilities. It's advisable to check with the park management if you plan to braai. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the vastness of the crater from the rim, the unique saline lake, and the diverse flora and fauna. The landscape offers dramatic perspectives. TikTok+1

For nature and geology enthusiasts, it offers unique photographic subjects. The scale of the crater and the surrounding natural beauty can be very photogenic. TikTok

Early morning or late afternoon light can provide softer, more dramatic lighting for landscape photography. TikTok

Drone usage is typically restricted in nature reserves and national parks to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety. It's best to check with the park authorities for their specific drone policy. TikTok

The designated viewpoint near the entrance offers a panoramic view of the crater. The hike down to the lake also provides different angles. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Tswaing Meteorite Crater offers an educational adventure for families, but requires careful preparation. The educational value of seeing a real meteorite crater and learning about its formation is immense. However, the significant presence of mosquitoes can be a major deterrent for younger children. Ensure you have plenty of effective insect repellent and consider long sleeves and pants for everyone. TikTokReddit

The easier trails to the rim are manageable for most children, but the steeper descents to the crater floor might be challenging. Pack plenty of water and snacks, as there are no facilities within the park. A picnic at the designated site can be a fun family activity. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts

For those who love to hike and explore nature, Tswaing Meteorite Crater offers a unique geological landscape. The trails provide opportunities to observe the Sourish-Mixed Bushveld flora and spot various bird species. The different routes down into the crater offer varying levels of difficulty, appealing to different fitness levels. Reddit

Remember to check the weather and go prepared for heat, even on cooler days. The saline lake at the bottom is a peculiar sight, and the sheer scale of the crater is awe-inspiring. Be sure to wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring your camera to capture the dramatic scenery. TikTokReddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Geological Marvel: Tswaing Meteorite Crater

The Tswaing Meteorite Crater is a remarkable geological site, estimated to be over 220,000 years old. It was formed when a meteorite, roughly the size of half a football field, impacted the Earth's crust. The resulting crater is impressively large, measuring about 1.4 kilometers in diameter and reaching depths of up to 200 meters. This makes it one of the best-preserved meteorite impact craters globally, offering a unique glimpse into ancient cosmic events. TikTok+1

The name 'Tswaing' itself means 'Place of Salt' in Setswana, a direct reference to the saline lake that now covers the crater floor. This unique environment, though having virtually no life, supports some aquatic species and surrounding vegetation. From 1912 to 1950, the crater was even the site of an industry focused on producing soda ash and salt, highlighting its historical significance beyond its geological origins. Reddit

Visiting Tswaing offers a chance to connect with Earth's deep history. The surrounding area is part of the Sourish-Mixed Bushveld biome, supporting a rich variety of plant species and a significant number of bird species, making it a haven for nature lovers and birdwatchers alike. Reddit

Navigating the Terrain and Wildlife

Exploring Tswaing Meteorite Crater involves navigating its natural terrain, which can present some challenges. The walk from the reception area to the crater rim is generally an easy 1 to 2 km stroll, offering accessible views. However, descending to the water's edge requires more effort. The route to the left is a dirt road that, while steep, is considered easier than the path to the right, which becomes quite strenuous. Reddit

A significant aspect of the onsite experience, and one that many visitors emphasize, is the presence of mosquitoes. They can be particularly numerous and bothersome, especially during the descent into the crater. Travelers strongly advise coming prepared with potent insect repellent and wearing long clothing to minimize bites. TikTokReddit

Beyond the mosquitoes, visitors should be mindful of the surrounding environment. The area is known for its diverse birdlife and plant species. When driving to and from the crater, expect to encounter livestock and goats on the roads, so driving cautiously is essential. The heat can also be a factor, even on cooler days, so bringing ample water and dressing in layers is highly recommended. Reddit

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