Lake Abaya
Abaya Hayk
The largest lake in Ethiopia's Rift Valley. Its water is reddish brown from suspended sediment, forming a sweeping backdrop north of Arba Minch.
Lake Abaya covers about 1,160 square kilometers and is the largest lake in the East African Great Rift Valley within Ethiopia. Its water has a distinctive reddish-brown color from iron-rich sediment, in sharp contrast to the emerald Lake Chamo to the south. The lake is home to crocodiles, hippos and several small islands, where communities such as the Guji people live. Most visitors enjoy sunrise and lake views from hotel terraces on the high ground north of town or from park viewpoints. Boat trips can be arranged through travel agencies, though the boats are less well equipped than those on Lake Chamo.
Opening hours
All day
Nearby sights
- Chencha Market
- Dorze Village
- Arba Minch Crocodile Ranch
- Nechisar National Park
- Bridge of God Viewpoint
- Forty Springs (Arba Minch)
- Lake Chamo Crocodile Market
- Konso Cultural Landscape