This large salt lake is notable for its many water birds and its enormous crocodile population. The northern section is part of Rukwa Game Reserve, which is contiguous with Katavi National Park. From Mbeya, the main approaches are via Chunya or Galula, and then on to Saza and the lake shore. For either route, 4WD is the only realistic way to visit, and even then, access is difficult. It’s also possible (and easier via public transport) to access the lake from Sumbawanga.
As the lake has no outlet, its water level varies greatly between the wet and dry seasons. It rarely exceeds about 3m in depth, and sometimes splits into two lakes separated by swamplands.
There are no facilities.