A Visit to Bomi Lake

Sometimes the most exciting weekend activities are visits to places that are off limits to the mind. That makes the journey all the more fascinating; especially to places we don’t get to visit often. Bomi Lake is situated in the middle of the surrounding mountains and is about 300 feet deep. The area was once an iron ore mine owned by the Liberia Mining Company, which finally closed down in the late 1970s due to the reduction of iron ore on the world market.After we passed Tubmanburg, the capital city of Bomi County, the LIB Life team had to stop and ask for directions, as the road leading to the lake has no signs directing travelers on their expedition. The road from Tubmanburg to Bomi Lake is not that long but is a very rough, uphill terrain. It is recommended that a sport-utility or higher-built vehicle be used when accessing the lake. The lake is a regular hangout spot for many youth living in Tubmanburg. On the way up the mountain, there are groups of them going and coming from the place, and can readily give directions on the right way. It only took us a few minutes before we parked in front of our destination: a calm, beautiful lake with an amazing history.As we drove through the rock, the spectacular view revealed itself in the sun’s reflection on top of the water, giving it the blue surface from whence its name is derived. When our LIB Life team drove further down to the mouth of the lake, I noticed that the iron ore mining operations had left large cascading platforms on the mountains, but that was not all. I was surprised to find that the water had risen to the extent that it covered the vast hole left behind. I began to wonder where the water came from to fill the crater, since it is not linked to any flowing water sources. When I asked one of the boys who were taking care of the area to show me where the water came from, he pointed his finger directly up a mountain far above the lake in front of me. It became clear to me that the waters sprang from there and ran down into the crater. Indeed, the mark indicating the water’s origin and trail was clear. On that particular day, however, I saw no water running down into the crater, and I again asked why. He explained to me that we are in the dry season; but that when the rains arrive, the water will flow again. Whether rain or shine, however, the lake never rises above its banks, nor does it run dry.It was not just the color of the water that fascinated me but also its warmth, purity, and the incredible beauty of the entire environment. The singing of the weaver birds from their nest-covered trees rendered my mind stress free like never before and the cool air gave me a warm sense of relaxation. The site would be wonderful for a hotel or casino, and of course water sports. The water level is absolutely stable, making it a fantastic scuba diving spot. There is ample flat ground around the lake for picnics and other group or more private activities. The lake is managed by the office of the Mayor of Tubmanburg, which is responsible to keep it clean and safe. There is a cost to enter the facility: approximately L$100 per person and US$5 for vehicles. From the trip, I came away with the overwhelming conclusion that if Bomi Lake is properly taken care of, it definitely has the potential to rival any world-class tourist destination.Share this:Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)