Abijata Shala National Park

One of the country’s Most Important Bird Areas, with the highest wetland bird diversity which found in the center of the Ethiopian Great Rift Valley. A National Park sprawled in an area of 887 km² of which 482 km² of the park is covered by water, Lake Abijata, Lake Shalla, and Lake Chitu.  The area has feeding grounds and breeding islands as well as the unique scenery rendered by its three lakes: Abijata, Shalla, and Chitu. Lake Shalla serves as a breeding site, whereas Lake Abijata serves as a feeding site for birds. In addition, ASLNP has immense natural resources in its wetlands and terrestrial ecosystems with various species of wild animals including the birds of aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. The existence of high bird species diversity in the area makes the park one of the unique biodiversity hotspots.

Access and Accommodation

The ASLNP lies approximately 215 km, or a 3 h drive, south of Addis Abeba. The newly constructed Addis Ababa–Hawassa express road takes you to the ASLNP. The main entrance is located close to Langano Lake where several hotels and safari lodges are found including Sabanna Beach Resort, Karkaro Lodge, and Haro Lodge. The ASLNP is surrounded by a large selection of lodges and hotels in the neighboring areas. A lodge, the 10,000 Flamingos Lodge inside the park is located on top of a ridge between lakes Shalla and Chitu and is very scenic with impressive views of both lakes. In addition to the 10,000 Flamingos Lodge, there is a community lodge inside the park, close to Lake Shalla and the hot springs.

LOCATION AND PARK MAP

OPPORTUNITIES IN THIS PARK