Lac Niamawi

Lac Niamawi

Lac Niamawi also known as Lake Niamawi is the largest lake in the Comoros archipelago, covering an area of about 3.5 square kilometers. It is located on the island of Grande Comore, near the town of Dzialandzé. The lake is of volcanic origin and is placed in an extinct crater. The lake is unique because of its salty water. In fact, it is one of the few saltwater lakes in the world. The salinity of the water comes from its underground connection with the Indian Ocean. As a result, Lake Niamawi has a unique fauna and flora adapted to this saline environment. Lake Niamawi is surrounded by lush vegetation and green hills, resulting in a picturesque landscape. It is considered a sacred place by the local population and plays an important role in Comorian traditions and beliefs. Besides the natural beauty of Lake Niamawi, it also offers recreational activities for visitors. Tourists can enjoy a swim in the salt water or watch the birds that frequent the area. Legend has it that a village once stood on the site of the lake. One day, an old woman came to ask the villagers for a glass of water, but they wouldn't give her any, except for one family. The old woman then, for no particular reason, told the mother of the family to leave the village with her family before dark. So, the family left the village. The next morning, when the family returned to the village, it was flooded, and the old woman turned out to be a witch.