Mbozi Meteorite

The Mbozi meteorite is a block of iron and nickel about three metres long weighing roughly sixteen tonnes, which puts it among the largest meteorites known anywhere. It was reported to science in 1930 and sits where it landed, its base excavated so it stands clear on a plinth of the original ground. Unusually it made no crater, suggesting it slowed considerably before impact. Local people had known it long before, calling it kimondo.

What to look for

• The mass - about sixteen tonnes of iron and nickel, among the world's largest meteorites.
• The excavated plinth - the ground cut away so the block stands clear.
• The absence of a crater - the object apparently slowed before it landed.
• The surface - the pitted and rusted iron skin of the block.

When to go

June to October for the driest access on the track. The site is open in daylight hours. Rain makes the last stretch of road difficult.

Practical notes

The track from the main road is rough and slow. The site is a single object in a small enclosure and the visit is short. Interpretation is minimal and the caretaker's information is limited.

Nearby

Mbeya is northeast, and Lake Rukwa is north.

Key facts