Lake Shala

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Lake Shala
Coordinates 7°29′N 38°32′ECoordinates: 7°29′N 38°32′E
Basin countries Ethiopia
Max length 28 km
Max width 12 km
Surface area 409 km²
Max depth 250 m
Surface elevation 1567 m
Islands Pelican Island

Lake Shala (also spelled Shalla) lies in Ethiopia south of Addis Ababa, in the Abijatta-Shalla National Park. According to the Statistical Abstract of Ethiopia for 1967/68, the lake is 28 kilometers long and 12 wide, with a surface area of 409 square kilometers. It has a maximum depth of 250 meters and is at an elevation of 1567 meters.

Known for the sulphur springs on the lake bed, its islands are inhabited by Great White Pelicans, one being known as Pelican Island.

Lake Shala is a beautiful and breathtaking Lake. On your way to the Lake, you will notice a unique blend of rich green and grassy fields. This area is frequented by various sheep, donkeys and cows. The Lake is surrounded by hot springs filled with boiling water, and the earth surrounding the Lake is filled with cracks due to erosion and earthquakes. Due to the steam which evaporates from the boiling of water in the hot springs, the atmosphere is relatively foggy.

At the far end of the Lake, you can see various types of flamingoes and birds that frequent the southern portion of the Lake Shala. Truly a breathtaking and naturally beautiful landscape of Ethiopia's environment.


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