lake in Carabobo and Aragua estados (states), central Venezuela. Lying in a basin in the Cordillera de la Costa (Maritime Andes) of the central highlands at an elevation of 1,362 ft (415 m) above sea level, Lake Valencia measures approximately 18 mi (29 km) from east to west and 10 mi from north to south. Its total area of 141 sq mi (364 sq km) makes it the second largest natural lake of Venezuela, after Lake Maracaibo. On its shores cotton, sugarcane, tobacco, corn (maize), coffee, fruits, and cattle are raised. Formerly known as Tacarigua, the lake is fed by many streams. The lake was formerly ringed with marshlands, but it has become a popular resort area. Valencia city is near the southwestern shore and Maracay is on the northeastern rim.