The largest rivers and lakes in Africa. African inland waters
Located in faults in the earth's crust. They are characterized by great depths, steep banks and slopes. Shallow reservoirs arose on the troughs of the lithospheric plate. In places of active volcanic activity, lakes were formed as a result of lowering lava fields. Each of the lakes plays an important role for such a hot continent as Africa. This article presents the ten largest lakes in Africa with names, photos, areas, locations and brief descriptions.
Kivu
The area of Kivu is 2700 km². Maximum length lakes - 89 km, width - 48 km. The average depth of the lake is about 240 meters, and the maximum depth exceeds 480 meters. The lake was formed as a result of volcanic activity. The water in Kivu is fresh. Coastline The reservoir is indented, there are a lot of islands, the largest of which is called Idjvi. The lake is potential, as it contains methane deposits. Despite this, the shores are densely populated. People catch telapia, sardines, carp and catfish there. The Nyungwe, Kahuzi-Biega and Virunga Forest national parks are home to chimpanzees, antelope, buffalo and. Pelicans, ibises and gulls nest along the banks overgrown with bamboo and papyrus. The lake is shared between the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda.
Tana
Tana covers an area of 3000 to 3500 km². The maximum length of the lake is 84 km, width is 66 km. The maximum depth during the rainy season does not exceed 15 meters. The lake was formed as a result of volcanic activity that blocked the flow of inflowing rivers about 5 million years ago. It was originally much larger than it is today. Tana is a freshwater lake. The Blue Nile originates from it. Due to the gradual decline in water levels, the shores of the lake become swampy, becoming home to aquatic birds such as ducks, geese and pelicans. Local residents make money by catching fish, which is found here in abundance. The lake is located in Ethiopia.
Bangweulu
The surface area of permanently open water is approximately 3,000 km², and expands significantly when marshes and floodplains overflow their banks at the end of the rainy season in May. The total area of the lake and wetlands reaches 15,000 km². The average depth of Bangweulu does not exceed four meters. This freshwater lake is of tectonic origin. Thanks to the swampy shore, a unique and unique river has been preserved here in its original form. Crocodiles also live in the thickets of sedge and papyrus. Indigenous people catches catfish, bream and yellowbelly in the lake. Bangweulu is located in Zambia.
Mweru
The area of the lake is 5120 km². The maximum length of the lake is 131 km, width - 56 km. The average depth does not exceed seven meters, and the maximum depth is about 20-27 meters. Fresh water filled a tectonic depression shaped like a heart. Mweru is part of the Congo River system. Thanks to this, the lake level does not depend on weather changes and drought. Of interest to tourists are the Lumangwe waterfalls and national park Lusenga Plain. The lake is located on the territory of two African states: Zambia and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Albert
The area of the lake is 5300 km². The maximum length of the lake is 160 km, width - 30 km. The average depth is 20 meters, the maximum depth does not exceed 60 meters. The reservoir is located in a tectonic depression. Throughout the year, the water in Alberta remains warm. Thanks to this, the ichthyofauna is well developed here. Part of the coastline is represented by cliffs and ledges from which hot springs flow. The flat areas are covered. In some places the shores turn into wetlands, a favorite habitat of crocodiles and other dangerous creatures. Lake Albert is located in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda.
Rudolf
The area of the lake is 6405 km². The maximum length of the lake is 290 km, width - 32 km. The average depth does not exceed 30 meters, and the maximum reaches 109 meters. The water is brackish. Three adjacent islands are national parks. The tribes living on the sandy shores are engaged exclusively in fishing. Due to the arid climate, animals and vegetable world around the lake is relatively sparse. The lake is famous big amount living on its shores. The reservoir is located in Kenya and Ethiopia.
Chad
Historically, Lake Chad ranks among the largest lakes in Africa, although its surface area varies greatly depending on the season and also from year to year. Previously, the area of the lake reached about 17,800 km², however, at the beginning of the 21st century it decreased to approximately 1,500 km². The average depth of the lake is 1.5 meters, the greatest depth is 11 meters. Lake Chad was formed due to depression in the earth's crust. The coastal line is swampy. There are many islands in the northeastern part. The northern border is dunes. Tropical plants grow in the south. The waters of Lake Chad contain a lot of algae, which are a source of food for fish. The floating islands are home to hippos, crocodiles and waterfowl. Hyenas also come to the shores to drink. Residents, in addition to fishing, are engaged in the extraction of caustic salt. The reservoir is located in Nigeria, Cameroon, Chad and Niger.
Nyasa
The area of Nyansa is 29,604 km². The maximum length of the lake is 560 km, width - 75 km. The average depth is 292 meters, the maximum depth is 706 meters. The lake is considered one of the deepest on Earth. It was formed at the site of a tectonic fault. The coastline is amazingly diverse. There are rocky shores, bays, sandbanks and river deltas. There are 1,000 species of fish in the lake, many of which live at great depths. The abundance of ichthyofauna attracts birds such as eagles, herons and cormorants. Large animals are represented mainly by hippopotamuses and crocodiles. Lake Nyansa is located in the following African countries: Malawi, Mozambique and Tanzania.
Tanganyika
The area of the lake is 32900 km². The maximum length of the lake is 673 km, width - 72 km. The average depth is 570 meters, the greatest depth is 1470 meters. The reservoir is located in a tectonic depression. Over the 10 million years of its existence, the lake has never dried up, so there is a unique underwater world here. The coastline has a rocky landscape. In the east it is represented by a flat strip. Tanganyika is associated with birds, amphibians and waterfowl. Millions of people live along the shores of the lake, so shipping is developed on it. Tanganyika is located in Tanzania, Zambia and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Victoria
Victoria is the largest freshwater lake on the African continent, and covers an area of approximately 68,800 km². The maximum length of the lake is 337 km, width - 250 km. The average depth is 40 meters, the greatest depth is 83 meters. The coastline is low and flat. In the north the land is covered with savannas, and in the west with equatorial forests. The lake is home to 200 species of fish. The adjacent forests are home to lizards, exotic birds, porcupines and mongooses. Rubondo Island Nature Reserve is a gem for tourists. The main threats to Lake Victoria include the proliferation of water lilies. The lake is found in Tanzania, Kenya and Uganda.
Map of the location of the largest lakes in Africa
The continent lies entirely on the African Plate. Due to its slope in the west, the main flow goes to the Atlantic. A third of all rivers have internal flow. Most waterways have rapids and waterfalls, making them unsuitable for navigation. The water level in rivers is mainly affected by the presence or absence of rain. The melt waters of snow and glaciers feed the rivers that originate on. This article provides a list of the ten largest, deepest and longest rivers in Africa in ascending order, as well as a map of the continent's great river basins.
Pool map largest rivers Africa / Image: Wikipedia
#10: Jubba
The Jubba River has a length of 1004 km. The basin area is 497,504 km², the average water flow is 187 m³/s. The source of the Jubba is formed in Ethiopia, and most of the channel is in Somalia, where it flows into the Indian Ocean. There is a lot of rainfall throughout the river, so its banks are covered with abundant vegetation. Gazelles, chamois, hyenas and giraffes come to the river to drink. The Jubba watercourse is located in only two African states: Somalia and Ethiopia.
#9: Shari
The length of the river is 1,400 km, the basin area is 548,747 km². The average water flow rate is about 1159 m³/s. Shari is formed at the confluence of the Uam, Gribingi, and Bamingi rivers. The mouth of the artery is located in Chad. The river is not afraid of drought, and it does not dry up during the dry season. Chari is the main drinking source and center of the fishing industry for the Chadian population. The river has many tributaries, the main ones being Logon, Bahr Sarkh and Bahr Salamat. Due to the fact that large cities are located along the banks, the river is too polluted. If measures are not taken to protect rivers, the region faces an environmental disaster. The Shari flows through Cameroon, Chad and the Central African Republic.
#8: Volta
The river stretches for about 1500 km. The basin area is 407,093 km², the average water flow is 1288 m³/s. The river was formed by the confluence of two waterways of West Africa: the White Volta and the Black Volta. The mouth of the reservoir is the Gulf of Guinea (Atlantic Ocean). The most important tributaries are the Daka, Afram and Oti rivers. The river flows through the Republic of Ghana and is famous for its developed shipping.
#7: Okavango
The length of the river is 1600 km. The basin area is 530,000 km². Average water flow is about 470 m³/s. The source of the Okavango is located in the mountains of Angola. The unique feature of the water artery is that it does not go anywhere. The Okavango forms the largest river delta, and dissolves into the Kalahari sands.
The river is primarily fed by rain. The largest tributary is the Quito River. The water in the Okavango is clean because the shores are practically uninhabited and there is no industry.
The river delta is a unique place. The banks are overgrown with water lilies and reeds. Acacia grows in the meadows. Water from the Okavango is a source of drinking for many animals: antelopes, giraffes, hippos and crocodiles. The river flows through Angola, Namibia and Botswana.
#6: Limpopo
The length is 1,750 km, and the basin area is 415,000 km². Water flow 170 m³/s. The Limpopo begins in South Africa, where the Witwatersrand mountain range stretches, and flows into the Indian Ocean. The river is shaped like a zigzag; it crosses deserts, savannas and chains of mountains. The Limpopo has several large tributaries: Shangane, Olifants, Notwani.
The food is predominantly rain-fed. In the summer in southern Africa there are often thunderstorms and heavy downpours. In dry years, Limpopo dries out at the top. The shipping route extends 160 km from the mouth. Due to the peculiar bend of the river, the water flows slowly, so a lot of silt forms in it. The lands along the banks of the river are very fertile. Floods rarely occur, so deciduous forests grow in the lower reaches. Closer to the mouth, you can find cod, mackerel, herring, octopus and oysters in the river. Along the entire length of the Limpopo, hippos and crocodiles live on its banks. The river flows through the states of Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Botswana and South Africa.
#5: Orange
The length of the river is 2200 km. The area of its basin is 973,000 km². The average flow rate does not exceed 365 m³/s. The Orange River originates in the Drakensberg Mountains. There is a lot of precipitation here, which is a source of food. The Orange River flows into the Atlantic. It crosses almost the entire southern region of the continent and plays a vital role in its economy.
The main tributary is the Vaal River. Due to the abundance of rapids, navigation on the Orange River is impossible. The main wealth of the river is all kinds of minerals. Due to the hot climate, there is little diversity of animals living here. The river crosses Namibia, the Republic of Congo, South Africa and the Kingdom of Lesotho.
#4: Zambezi
The length of the river is 2574 km. The basin area is 1,390,000 km². Water flow is approximately 3400 m³/s. The river originates in northwestern Zambia and its mouth is at Indian Ocean. From the north, the Zambezi turns sharply to the southwest. In the south the river becomes significantly more rapid. On the border of the Central African Plateau lies the Victoria Falls, formed as a result of the faulting of a tectonic plate. Then the channel turns to the northeast. In its lower reaches it faces south and rushes towards the ocean. The river crosses such African countries, like Angola, Namibia, Zambia, Zimbabwe and Mozambique.
The main tributaries are the Luangwa and Kafue. Food - rain. The Zambezi is most flooded in the summer, from November to March. Due to seasonal high water, shipping is not very developed. The upper and middle part of the river flows through savannas. Dense forests grow between the river beds. The lower part of the Zambezi is represented by.
There are many fish in the waters. Species diversity divides Victoria Falls. Bream and pike are found in the upper reaches. Where there is no fast currents, inhabited by crocodiles and monitor lizards. There are many animals in the forests and... It is convenient to watch them during the dry season, when all the animals go to the banks of the Zambezi to drink. The fauna is represented by monkeys, baboons, wolves, cheetahs, zebras and giraffes. The banks of the river are home to pelicans, herons and flamingos.
#3: Niger
The length of the river is 4180 km. The basin area is 2,117,700 km². Water flow 5589 m³/s. The Niger is the third largest river in Africa, originating on the slopes of the Liberian Highlands. The mouth is located in the bay of the Atlantic Ocean.
The river is fed by monsoon rains. The channel first points north. In Mali the direction changes to southeast. The main tributaries are the Benue, Kaduna, Sokato, Bani and Milo. The waterway passes through the territories of the following countries: Guinea, Nigeria, Niger, Mali, Benin.
Along the banks of the Niger there are major cities, including Bamako, the fastest growing city on the continent. Shipping is developed only in the upper reaches. There are two dams and one hydroelectric power station on the river. Thanks to the abundance of ichthyofauna, fishing is developed. Carp, barbel and perch are caught in Niger.
#2: Congo
The length is 4,700 km, the basin area occupies 4,014,500 km². The approximate water flow is 41,200 m³/s. The river originates near lakes Nyasa and Tanganyika and flows into the Atlantic Ocean. The Congo is fed by rain, and the river is the deepest on Earth. In some places the depth exceeds 200 m.
Main tributaries: Mobangi, Alima, Rubi, Lulongo, Lefeni. Livingston Falls prevent ships from reaching the ocean. On flat sections, between major cities, shipping is well established. Densely populated cities are located along the banks of the Congo. The reservoir has a large energy reserve: two dams and 40 hydroelectric power stations have already been built here.
The mighty waterway provides water equatorial forests. They are a favorable habitat for various dangerous animals: spiders, snakes and crocodiles. The Congo crosses Angola, the Republic of the Congo and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
#1: Neil
With a length of 6853 km, the Nile is probably the most long river peace. River basin - 3,400,000 million km², water flow 2830 m³/s. The Nile originates in Lake Victoria and flows into. Major tributaries are the Achwa, Sobat, Atbara and Blue Nile. The river fills with precipitation. Flood occurs at the end of summer - beginning of autumn, then the river can overflow its banks. Navigation is well developed in the north.
The Nile gives life to many species of plants and animals. A large number of fish species live in the river delta: perch, sunfish, sea bream and barb. The Nile crocodile and hippopotamus live along the banks. The number of birds, including migratory ones, is about three hundred species. Giraffes and antelopes live in the river valleys.
The fertile soil layer along the river allows for the growth of rare species palm trees and shrubs that contrast sharply with the nearby desert lands. The Nile flows through the territories of Egypt, Sudan, Ethiopia, Rwanda, Tanzania and Uganda.
In Africa, lakes are not particularly localized and are found throughout the continent. The only exception is the East African Rift Valley, where the African Great Lakes are located. The arid climate does not prevent bodies of water from being the center of life. Although some of them are highly dependent on the rainy season, and the rest of the time they can dry out almost completely. The authorities of a number of countries have become concerned about environmental protection and have organized national parks and reserves near the most picturesque lakes.
Species diversity is also protected, so populations are being restored. There are lakes, both salty and fresh. In the first case, industrial extraction of salt is common; in the second, the use of water for Agriculture. In terms of tourism, reservoirs are also attractive. Where there is no infrastructure and large hotels, travelers are lured to go on safari or look at authentic Africa.
The most famous lakes in Africa
1. Victoria
This is the largest lake in Africa by area. Belongs to the territory of Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania. Area – 69 thousand km², maximum depth – about 84 meters. A dam was built in 1954, making Victoria a reservoir. Average annual temperature air temperature in the area is above +20°C, two rainy seasons per calendar year. Tours to the lake can be booked in any major city in the region. Even local fishermen conduct excursions.
2. Tanganyika
The deepest lake in Africa. Belongs to 4 countries: Tanzania, DR Congo, Burundi, Zambia. The area is almost 33 thousand km², the maximum depth is 1470 meters. The sizes change throughout the year, which is associated with the hot climate and the drying out of the rivers flowing into Tanganyika. Fishing is carried out almost throughout the entire territory. There are large port cities. There are hotels in picturesque bays. Targeted at poor tourists and exotic lovers.
Located in Malawi, Mozambique and Tanzania. The area is more than 29.5 thousand km², the maximum depth is 706 meters. There are sandy beaches, diving and underwater fishing opportunities. The coastal zone is not very populated, the infrastructure in some places is outdated or not developed. Fishing is not typical for all parts of the lake. Tourists are attracted by the picturesque views, rare plants and animals. The environment is getting worse every year.
4. Rudolf (Turkana)
Found in Kenya and Ethiopia. Area – 8.5 thousand km², maximum depth – 73 meters. Opened in 1888 and named after the Crown Prince of Austria. The local name Turkana was assigned to the lake already in the 70s of the last century. There are three islands of volcanic origin. There are a lot of crocodiles in the area, including abnormally large specimens. The area is also famous for archaeological finds from different periods.
5. Edward
It is shared between the DR Congo and Uganda. The area is more than 2.3 thousand km², the average depth is 17 meters. Named after the British King Edward VII. Belongs to the Great Lakes system of Africa. A canal links it to neighboring Lake George. There are several in the area national parks, whose activities are aimed at the conservation of elephants, chimpanzees and other fauna. Included in the route of migratory birds.
6. Natron
It can be found in northern Tanzania. Area – 1 thousand km², average depth – one and a half meters. The presence of salt and microorganisms triggers processes in the water that periodically turn the lake pink. There can be hundreds of thousands of flamingos here at the same time. The pool is protected by the Ramsar Convention. This agreement allows you to save as wetlands and waterfowl species.
7. Retba
Located in Senegal near the Cape Verde Peninsula. Area – 3 km², maximum depth – 3 meters. Thanks to a large number halophilic archaea, the color of the water is pink or shades close to it. The salt content in water is close to 40%. Constant production began in the 70s of the last century. Staying in water without special equipment for 10 minutes or more risks getting burns.
8. Chad
Belongs to Chad, Nigeria, Niger and Cameroon. The name translates as “big water”. The area is more than 1.3 thousand km², the average depth is one and a half meters. Sizes vary depending on the season. Deposits of soda, which is actively mined, and oil have been explored on the lake. Work is underway to prevent the reservoir from drying out. In the coming years, it is planned to build canals and drain runoff from the Congo Basin into Chad.
9. Albert
Located on the border of the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda. Area – 5.6 thousand km², average depth – 25 meters. Opened in 1864 and named after Queen Victoria's husband. The banks are mostly steep. There are villages and ports, and shipping between them is developed. The surrounding terrain is varied, with wetlands, mountains, beaches and tall bushes. Fishing is on stream; there are more than 40 species of fish in the lake.
10. Kivu
Located in the border zone of the Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda. Area – 2.7 thousand km², maximum depth – 480 meters. Belongs to the Great Lakes system of Africa. The Ruzizi River connects it with Lake Tanganyika. There is a legend about the eruption of a nearby volcano, when the water in Kivu boiled and the fish cooked. There are methane deposits at the bottom, which poses a threat of explosion in the event of an earthquake and other disasters.
11. Assal
Crater salt lake in Djibouti. Area – 54 km², average depth – more than 7 meters. The location of the lake is the lowest point of the continent. The salt level is comparable to the Dead Sea. Salt production is carried out on an ongoing basis and is important for the country's economy. The banks look rocky due to the salinity of the soil. A natural attraction nearby is the Gubbet-Kharab Bay of the Gulf of Tadjoura.
12. Manyara
Located in northern Tanzania. Dimensions – 50 by 16 km. It is known due to explored deposits of salts and phosphate. The coastline is characterized by uneven vegetation. There are several hot springs nearby. Included in a number of permanent tourist routes. Lovers of watching animals will be especially interested here. The area is home to buffalos, lions, and rhinoceroses.
13. Tana
Located in northwestern Ethiopia. Area – 3.5 thousand km², maximum depth – 15 meters. About 50 rivers flow into it, and only the Blue Nile flows out. The local population is engaged in fishing and uses water from the Tana for agriculture. The main attractions of the lake are the islands. Christian monasteries and temples were built on them, and many of the country's rulers were buried there.
14. Bangweulu
The water system of Zambia, which includes not only a lake, but also a swamp with a floodplain. The area is more than 15 thousand km², the maximum depth is 5 meters, it is fed by almost 20 rivers. Plays an important role in the economy of the region. There are many fishing villages on the coast. Although the tourism infrastructure is poorly developed, the influx of travelers is significant. They come for African authenticity.
15. Mveru
Belongs to DR Congo and Zambia. The area is more than 5 thousand km², the maximum depth is 27 meters. Unlike most lakes, Mweru is not particularly affected by the rainy season. The coast is built up with fishing villages. Bird and animal populations are still recovering from poaching that raged here in the past. A modern road was built to the reservoir, which made life easier for locals and tourists.
16. Kyoga
Complex of lakes in Uganda, with total area more than 1.7 thousand km². Maximum depth – up to 6 meters. Floating islands formed from papyrus drift between small islands. There are wetlands around, partially overgrown banks, and a lot of fish. Together, this created excellent conditions for the reproduction and life of crocodiles. The flow of water from Kyoga to the White Nile is hampered by natural congestion.
17. Nakuru
Located in central Kenya. The translation of the name is “dusty place.” Area – up to 40 km², maximum depth – up to 3 meters. The water is salty, there is a lot of algae and phytoplankton. There is a permanent and impressive population of flamingos. Part of the same name national park. It has expanded since its founding to include part of the savannah. People come here to watch rhinoceroses.
18. Kariba
A reservoir formed in 1959 on the Zambezi River. Belongs to the territory of Zambia and Zimbabwe. Area – 5.4 thousand km², maximum depth – 78 meters. Downstream there is a national park and biosphere reserve. Since the surrounding areas are no longer flooded during the rainy season due to the dam, the fauna has also changed. For example, acacia and floating ferns have grown extensively.
19. Bogoria
Alkaline saline lake in Kenya. Area – 33 km², average depth – 5 meters. Very high performance alkali content. Salinity in dry seasons reaches 100 ‰. You can easily find active geysers on the shores. The height of their fountains reaches 5 meters. It is protected primarily because of its flamingo population - 2 million individuals. It is part of the reserve of the same name. An object world heritage UNESCO since 2011.
20. Bunyoni
Situated in southwestern Uganda. Dimensions – 25 by 7 km. The translation of the name is “place of little birds.” There are 29 islands, each home to exotic birds - about 200 species. It is safe to swim here as there are no crocodiles or tropical diseases. Local residents arrange excursions and canoe trips for tourists for a small fee. From above, the outline of the lake resembles a walking giraffe.
21. Nasser
A reservoir formed on the Nile River. Territorially belongs to Egypt and Sudan. Named after the President of Egypt. The area is more than 5 thousand km², the maximum depth is 130 meters. Appeared in the 60s of the last century. Specialists from the USSR participated in the construction of the dam. During construction, many national ancient monuments were moved from the flood zone, including the Temple of Isis.
22. Naivasha
Kenyan freshwater lake. The translation of the name is “turbulent water”. From time to time, strong winds arise here, making the lake restless. This is due, among other things, to its location - the highest part of the Great Rift Valley. Area – 139 km², average depth – 6 meters. The lake is notable for its wide variety of birds - about 400 species, as well as a colony of hippopotamuses.
23. Volta
In fact, it is a reservoir on the river of the same name. Located in Ghana. It appeared in the 60s of the last century after the construction of a hydroelectric power station. Area – 8.5 thousand km², maximum depth – 80 meters. Fishing has been put into operation. Shipping, including tourism, is developed. The shores are densely populated. The terrain is heterogeneous, with savannas in the north and tropical forests in the south.
24. Nyos
Located in the northwest of Cameroon. The area is almost 1.5 km², the maximum depth is 210 meters. It is of crater origin and surrounded by mountains. On the northern side it is limited by a natural dam crossed by a channel. The water is periodically degassed to prevent the 1986 disaster that killed more than 1,700 people. The banks are strengthened and the water level is falling.
25. Mai-Ndombe
Freshwater lake in the southwest of DR Congo. In the past it was named after the King of Belgium, but was renamed after the country gained independence. The area during the rainy season is up to 8.2 thousand km², the rest of the time – 2.3 thousand km². The maximum depth is 7 meters. Formed from a huge endorheic lake that existed here a million years ago. New species of flora and fauna are constantly being discovered in the area.
26. Rukva
Located in southwest Tanzania. Area – 2.6 thousand km², average depth – 3 meters. During dry periods it dries out almost completely. This salt lake has several tributaries. During the rainy season, which lasts from October to April, additional temporary rivers appear. There are many waterfowl, especially pelicans, and about 60 species of fish. Part of the Katavi National Park.
27. Tengrela
Located in the southwest of Burkina Faso. Dimensions – 2 by 1.5 km. There are small settlements on the shore. Fishing is a popular activity of local residents. Rich in aquatic vegetation, especially water lilies. Tourists come here to watch hippos; their colony lives here all year round. It is part of some safaris, although it is not the main attraction.
28. Abbe
This salt lake marks the border between Ethiopia and Djibouti. Area – 320 km², average depth – more than 8.5 meters. The lake has limestone peaks, also called pillars. Steam eruptions sometimes occur above the surface. Their height reaches 50 meters. Mixed meals, including fresh water from the Awash River and thermal springs, rich in salts and minerals.
29. Magadi
Salty endorheic lake in Kenya. Area – 104 km², maximum depth – meter. The area is rich in salty springs flowing from faults. The reservoir has become smaller over the years. In areas left without water there are layers of rock salt. And at the bottom, the so-called “Egyptian salt” is formed, which has been mined here for 80 years. Magadi has only one species of fish, but many species of birds.
30. Chala
Crater lake on the border of Tanzania and Kenya. Area – 4.2 km², maximum depth – 98 meters. Tourists are offered kayaking and swimming, although crocodiles have been spotted here during some periods. You can get to the reservoir by SUV through a tropical forest. There are meetings with Bedouins. The rainy season is short. Nearby attraction: Mount Kilimanjaro.
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