Rift Valley Lakes · Nature & Wildlife
Abijatta-Shalla National Park
In the heart of the Rift Valley, the shallow, bird-rich Lake Abijatta lies beside the deep volcanic caldera of Lake Shalla.
- Best Time
- September to May
- Suggested Stay
- 1 to 2 days
- Altitude
- 1,540 to 2,075 m
- Region
- Nature & Wildlife
Why We Go
Two very different soda lakes, flamingos, pelicans and steaming hot springs.
Both lakes are terminal soda lakes with no outlet, but they could hardly be more different. Abijatta is shallow, with a fluctuating water level and fresh water flowing in through the Horakello stream, where water birds gather to drink and bathe. Shalla, by contrast, fills a deep crater surrounded by volcanic cliffs.
Together they make one of Ethiopia’s best birding destinations, easily combined with a night at nearby Lake Langano.
Highlights
- Lesser and greater flamingos on Lake Abijatta
- Great white pelicans breeding on Shalla’s islands
- Hot springs on the shore of Lake Shalla
- Acacia woodland with ostrich and Grant’s gazelle
Journeys Including Abijatta-Shalla National Park
Routes that pass through here
Plan This Destination
Build Abijatta-Shalla National Park into your journey
Nothing here is fixed. Tell us how long you have and what else you want to see, and our team will plan the route, including the flights, the guides and the hours that matter.
Let’s Plan Your Ethiopian Adventure
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Speak to someone who has been there this season
Our guides travel these routes all year. Ask about road conditions, festival dates or the best time to visit. You will get a straight answer.
Or call us directly on +251 912 039405