Abijatta-Shalla Lakes National Park

Located 207 km south of Addis Ababa in the main Rift Valley, Abijatta-Shalla Lakes National Park was primarily created to protect its spectacular numbers of aquatic birds and stunning scenery. The park encompasses two beautiful and distinct lakes: Lake Shalla, the deepest lake in the Rift Valley at over 260 meters, features several islands that serve as crucial nesting sites for Great White Pelicans and other birds. In contrast, Lake Abijatta is a shallow alkaline lake, only 13 meters deep, that serves as a major feeding ground for vast colonies of Lesser Flamingos. The park's Acacia-Euphorbia woodland savanna is also home to mammals like Grant's gazelle, Colobus monkeys, and warthogs. With geological features like hot springs and lava caves, and the small crater Lake Chitu offering a spectacular view of its own flamingo colony, the park is a vital and beautiful conservation area.