Lake Abaya Lake

Address: Lake Abaya (Aba’ya), Southern Ethiopia, near Arba Minch

Lake Abaya is a large freshwater lake in the Ethiopian Rift Valley in southern Ethiopia, notable as one of the region’s major Rift lakes.

The lake is known for its reddish-brown water caused by suspended sediments and for shoreline fishing communities. Small boat trips and birdwatching along the shore are common activities, and the nearby Lake Chamo lies immediately to the south.

The lake is a natural Rift Valley basin used by local communities for fishing and freshwater resources; its shoreline villages and landing places have been occupied for many generations.

Lake Abaya sits in southern Ethiopia north of Lake Chamo, with the town of Arba Minch on the isthmus between the two lakes and the surrounding landscape dominated by Rift Valley escarpments.

• Access: The town of Arba Minch on the narrow strip between Lake Abaya and Lake Chamo is the usual base for visits and has viewpoints over both lakes.

Lake Abaya is accessed by road from Arba Minch and other regional centres in the Southern Nations, Nationalities, and Peoples’ Region. Local transport and arranged tours can provide boat excursions and village visits.

• Visit with a local guide to reach less-visited shores and to learn about the Gamo and Gedeo communities whose livelihoods relate to the lake.
• Boat trips give perspective on the lake's colour and birdlife; arrange with local operators in Arba Minch or regional towns.