Ngosi Crater lake north rim

 

The lake

 

We had visited Ngosi Crater Lake on a previous trip (Trip I) but had accessed it from the southern entrance. On a previous trip to Mbeya we had tried but failed to reach the newer northern point. Our failure was due to the steep and wet roads during rainy season. Although the road was well signed, the road was full of deep erosion, sticky mud, and poor visibility. We ended up turning around so I was pleased to complete the journey today. 

The road has clearly received some maintenance but there are still some very steep sections. The views over the agriculture dominated rolling hills are spectacular. It took less than a half hour from the main road to reach to the entrance, which wasn't much more than an old signpost fixed at a trailhead. 

We parked the car and enjoyed the short 2.2 km (1.4 miles) hike to the crater rim. The path took us through open grassland and then a short bit through montane forest. It was a very gradual climb and l would recommend the hike to just about anyone of any fitness level and age. 

There were some cement picnic benches and a collapsed viewing platform all with stunning views. There appeared to be a trail down to the lake but it was incredibly steep so I only peaked down the ravine. 

I'm happy to see another access point to the crater lake. It's a great day trip activity from Mbeya and maybe one day I'll have the strength to walk down to the waters edge!

A nice little forest patch