Ethiopian Rift Valley Lakes

map of Rift Valley lakes

Map showcasing the chain of lakes in the Ethiopian Rift Valley, known for their birdlife and scenic beauty, presented by Tanian Ethiopia Tours. Explore Ethiopia's Great Rift Valley.

Know the valley

Ethiopia, known for its diverse landscapes, is home to an impressive array of lakes. The country’s location along the Great African Rift Valley, a geological feature stretching from Jordan to Mozambique, has resulted in the formation of some of the world’s largest, deepest, and oldest lakes. This unique geological formation has shaped Ethiopia’s geography and created a diverse ecosystem that supports a wide range of flora and fauna.

Lakes Of the valley

The Ethiopian Rift Valley Lakes are a series of lakes located in the Main Ethiopian Rift, a geological depression that runs through central Ethiopia. These lakes are known for their diverse ecosystems and unique biodiversity. Some of the major lakes in this region include Lake Langano, Lake Ziway, Lake Shala, Lake Abaya, and Lake Chamo. These lakes are popular tourist destinations, offering opportunities for birdwatching, boat trips, and cultural experiences.

Lake Ziway

Lake Ziway, a stunning freshwater lake, is nestled in the heart of Ethiopia’s Rift Valley. Located about 167 kilometers south of Addis Ababa, this picturesque body of water offers a tranquil escape from the bustling city.

Explore Rift Valley Lakes

Immerse yourself in nature, encounter fascinating wildlife, and relax in a tranquil setting.

Best accommodations around Rift Valley

Discover Rift Valley with our curated selection of top-rated hotels & Resorts.

Hyatt Regency Addis Ababa
Ethiopian Skylight Hotel
Best Western Plus Pearl Addis
Ramada Addis Hotel
Sapphire Addis Hotel
Venetian Hotel | Bole
Park Lane Addis Hotel
Show Places
Hyatt Regency Addis Ababa
Ethiopian Skylight Hotel
Best Western Plus Pearl Addis
Ramada Addis Hotel
Sapphire Addis Hotel
Venetian Hotel | Bole
Park Lane Addis Hotel
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Lake Langano

Lake Langano, located 200 kilometers south of Addis Ababa in the Oromia Region, is a stunning freshwater lake in the Great Rift Valley. Measuring 18 kilometers long and 16 kilometers wide, with a surface area of 330 square kilometers and a maximum depth of 46 meters, Lake Langano offers a serene and picturesque setting.

A sandy beach on the shores of Lake Langano, a popular recreational spot in Ethiopia.

Abijata-Shalla Lakes

Exploring the Abijata-Shalla National Park

Lake Abaya

Lake Abaya, located in the Southern Nations, Nationalities, and Peoples region of Ethiopia, is a stunning natural wonder. Named after Queen Margherita of Italy by the Italian explorer Vittorio Bottego, this lake is a significant feature of the Great Rift Valley.

Lake Chamo

Lake Chamo, nestled in the Southern Nations, Nationalities, and Peoples Region of southern Ethiopia, is a stunning natural wonder. Located in the Great Rift Valley, just south of Lake Abaya and the city of Arba Minch, this picturesque lake offers breathtaking views.

Explore Rift Valley Lakes

Immerse yourself in nature, encounter fascinating wildlife, and relax in a tranquil setting.

Lake Hawassa

Lake Hawassa, situated south of Addis Ababa in the Rift Valley, is a stunning natural wonder. This picturesque lake measures 16 kilometers long and 9 kilometers wide, covering an area of 129 square kilometers. With a maximum depth of 10 meters and an elevation of 1,708 meters, Lake Hawassa offers a unique and tranquil setting.

A close-up of a Marabou stork bird on Lake Hawassa, with the lake in the background.

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