Tour Highlights
- Trek through the stunning nature of Wenchi Crater Lake, “Africa’s Switzerland.”
- Visit the palace of King Aba Jifar II in Jimma.
- Explore the Kaffa Biosphere, the original home of wild coffee.
- Hike to the 70-meter-high Barta Waterfall and visit local organic honey producers.
Travel Itinerary
Day 1: Addis Ababa City Tour
Explore the capital’s landmarks, including the National Museum (Lucy), the Ethnographic Museum, and the Holy Trinity Cathedral. Visit the bustling Merkato and the newly opened Unity Park within the National Palace compound, which features historical buildings, a zoo, and imperial banquet halls.
Day 2: Wenchi Crater Lake Excursion
Drive west to Wenchi Crater Lake. Take a pleasant walk or horse ride from the rim into the valley. You may cross the lake by traditional boat to visit the island monastery. In the afternoon, return to Weliso for the night.
Day 3: Weliso – Jimma – Bonga
Continue west to Jimma to visit the 19th-century palace of King Aba Jifar II, a relic of the powerful Kaffa kingdom. Afterward, drive through coffee forests to Bonga, a town surrounded by mountainous rainforest. Overnight in Bonga.
Day 4: Alem Genna Wetlands and Barta Waterfall
Start with a sunrise walk through the misty Alem Genna wetlands, spotting birds and De Brazza monkeys. After a picnic breakfast, hike to the 70m Barta Waterfall. Visit a local beekeeper to learn about organic forest honey production. Optional hike to rainforest hot springs in the afternoon.
Day 5: Elevated Kaffa Biosphere and Bamboo Villages
Explore the higher altitudes of the Kaffa region (up to 3,000m). Visit Boka village, where houses are built entirely of bamboo. Meet a spiritual leader to hear stories about the local wildlife, including the lions that inhabit the nearby bamboo forests. Overnight in Bonga.
Day 6: Bonga – Jimma
Drive back to Jimma in the afternoon. Spend time exploring the local markets and the city’s vibrant atmosphere. Overnight in Jimma.
Day 7: Jimma – Addis Ababa
Visit the wood-carving markets of Jimma before flying back to Addis Ababa. Conclude your journey with a traditional Ethiopian dinner and dance show before your airport transfer.
