Zengena Lake

Zengena is an almost perfectly circular crater lake in the Awi highlands at around 2,500 metres, filling an old volcanic vent and reaching depths that put it among the deepest lakes in the country, with steep forested sides dropping straight to the water. The forest around it is one of the better-preserved patches in a region that has been heavily cleared, and monkeys and birds use it. A path runs partway around the rim with viewpoints down to the water, and the lake is a short walk from the main road between Bahir Dar and Addis Ababa, which makes it an easy stop on a long drive. There is no development on the shore. Local guides from the nearby village accompany visitors and expect payment.

The landscape

• The circular crater - a near-perfect round lake in a volcanic vent.
• Forested rim - steep wooded sides dropping to the water.
• Rim viewpoints - the path with overlooks down to the lake.
• Highland birds and monkeys - wildlife in the surrounding forest.

When to go

October to March for dry paths and clear light; the highlands are green after the rains in September. June to September brings heavy rain and mud on the rim path.

Practical notes

The site is small and the visit is short. Facilities are none and the fee arrangement is informal. The rim path is muddy and slippery in wet weather with unfenced drops. Access to the water itself is difficult because of the steep sides.

Nearby

Injibara is the nearest town; Bahir Dar lies north.

Key facts