Lake Chamo

Surrounded by dry lowland scenery and distant mountains, Lake Chamo offers a striking contrast between its blue-green waters and the rugged landscapes of southern Ethiopia. It lies south of Lake Abaya, and the two lakes are separated by a narrow strip of land known as the Bridge of God, part of Nechisar National Park. Grasslands, wetlands, woodland and groundwater forests around the lake support a diverse range of wildlife.

One of the lake’s best-known features is the area popularly called the Crocodile Market, where large Nile crocodiles gather along particular sections of the shoreline, often resting in the sun. The surrounding waters also support hippopotamuses, which can often be seen resting in the lake or surfacing to breathe.

The lake and its wetlands provide habitats for numerous resident and migratory birds. Pelicans, fish eagles, herons and other waterbirds can be found here, depending on the season, making the area particularly appealing to birdwatchers and nature photographers.

Lake Chamo supports a variety of freshwater fish, including Nile perch, catfish and tilapia, and fishing is an important part of local livelihoods, alongside farming and other traditional activities that have developed with the region’s natural resources.

Together with Nechisar National Park, known for its Burchell’s zebras, gazelles and other wildlife, the lake forms one of southern Ethiopia’s most distinctive natural landscapes. Along with Lake Abaya and the surrounding highlands, it is a highlight of Arba Minch, the city of “forty springs”, and a different side of Ethiopia beyond its historic cities.