Waw an Namus Travel Guide: Top Sights in Libya, Tours & Travel Advice

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Waw an Namus- Travel Tips What to See, How to Plan & Tours: Natural Scenery; Libya; 5 Reviews

Suggested Duration: 3 hours

Waw an Namus, a striking volcanic crater in Libya's south-central Sahara, captivates with its stark contrast to the surrounding desert. Encircled by a dark halo of basaltic ash stretching miles across, the two-mile-wide caldera harbors three saline lakes, smaller water bodies, and lush vegetation, creating an oasis-like setting. Historically, it served as a vital stop for caravans crossing this arid expanse. However, its name, meaning "Crater of Mosquitoes," hints at a unique challenge—an abundance of mosquitoes, making camping outside the caldera advisable. The origins and age of Waw an Namus remain subjects of geological curiosity, with its relatively young scoria cone suggesting activity in the last few thousand years.

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Reviews of Waw an Namus

mohaned alzetrini

5
Reviewed: 2024-11-07

It's looks like walking on the moon " literally
Gabriel Vidal

5
Reviewed: 2024-09-07

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NoorAldien Ahwidy

5
Reviewed: 2023-12-20

A very amazing and strange place that makes you feel like you are in another world in the middle of the desert
Mahfuz Ahmad

5
Reviewed: 2021-07-03

This is an indeed unique natural wonder found in the center of the Sahara Desert. The whole area is a volcanic field, that extends 10–20 km (6,2–12,4 mi), making it visible from space. In the middle of it there is a caldera and a cone. Moreover there are three saline lakes, that create a lush oasis. For centuries it has been an important stop for the caravans, that would refill their water supplies. Today it is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the country. Why to go there? Visitors are mesmerized by the beauty of Waw an Namus: the caldera is about 100 m (330 ft) deep and features colorful lakes, reeds and of course date palms, that enhance the overall impression.
Nico G.

5
Reviewed: 2019-09-15

What a a colorful place! A little bit moon on earth. Lot of birds and little insects which enjoy the lakes and plants. Landscape from its best! Unfortunately (or luckily) not easy to access. A long journey with the car and on foot is necessary to get there. The animals and plants are maybe thankful to that fact.