Rift Valley lakes

Africa’s Great Rift Valley rips a great scar through the middle of Ethiopia; a giant valley where lakes have bubbled up and forests have sprung from the ground. The warmth and humidity are a welcome break from the harsh highlands, and journeys up and down the valley reveal a variety of cultures and traditions. Strung out in the area between Addis Ababa and Arba Minch, Ethiopia’s Rift Valley Lakes are a pleasant lowland area offering an ideal stopping point for travellers wanting to visit the South of the country The six principal lakes of the region are Abijatta, Langano, Shalla, Ziway and further to the South, Abaya and Chamo. It is beside these lakes that the majority of the area’s high-qulity accomodation is found. As with many areas home to permanent water this is an excellent area for birding. Lake Chamo is also home to thriving populations of hippo and crocodile.