Iyake Lake is a suspended lake located atop the Oke Ado Mountain in the town of Ado-Awaye, Oyo State, southwestern Nigeria. It is considered one of only two recognized suspended lakes in the world,[1] the other being the Hanging Lake in Colorado, USA.
According to local oral traditions, Iyake Lake was discovered centuries ago by early settlers of the Ado-Awaye community, a town established by migrants from the Oyo Empire.[2] The lake is named "Iyake," believed to be after a powerful woman said to have drowned in the lake while performing rituals, and whose spirit is thought to dwell in its waters.[3]
In the 21st century, growing interest in domestic tourism and ecotourism has revived attention to Iyake Lake. The Oyo State government,[4] in collaboration with cultural heritage organizations, has begun initiatives to improve accessibility and promote the lake as a national tourist site, while respecting its cultural and environmental integrity.[5]
Description
Iyake Lake is a naturally occurring body of water that sits on a mountain approximately 300 meters above sea level. The lake is oval-shaped and is filled with still, dark green water.[6]
Geography
The lake is located in Ado-Awaye, a small town in the Iseyin Local Government Area of Oyo State. To reach it, visitors must hike up the Oke Ado Mountain, which also hosts other notable features like the Elephant Tree, the Oke Ishage (a rock believed to bring rain),[7] and Esè Àwon Àgbà (footprints believed to belong to ancient spirits).[8]
Cultural and spiritual significance
Iyake Lake is considered sacred by the local people, who believe it to be a spiritual portal to other realms. Traditional worshippers still hold annual rites at the lake, and swimming or entering the lake is discouraged due to its spiritual status and the danger posed by its unknown depth.[9]
Tourism
Mud turtle in Iyake suspended lake.
The lake has become a point of interest for tourists, researchers, and adventure seekers due to its natural beauty. Despite limited infrastructure, efforts by local and state authorities are ongoing to develop the area into a more accessible tourist destination.[6]
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