Tour Highlights
- Take a boat cruise to “Bird Island” on Lake Ziway to see nesting grounds.
- Explore the hot springs and alkaline lakes of Abiyata-Shalla National Park.
- Experience the sunset and the bustling morning fish market at Lake Hawassa.
- Visit the UNESCO-listed 14th-century stelae of Tiya on the return journey.
Travel Itinerary
Day 1: Addis Ababa – Lake Ziway
The tour starts with a 3-hour drive south through the green Rift Valley to Ziway. After lunch, look for birds near the shoreline before taking a cruise to Tulu Simbero (Bird Island) and Debre Sina. Discover the island’s monastery, ancient relics, and the cave systems used by hermits. You will also hike through the community-protected forest of Wamecha for scenic views of the lake. Overnight in Ziway.
Day 2: Ziway – Abiyata-Shalla – Hawassa
Continue south to Abiyata-Shalla National Park for a guided tour of the alkaline lakes and a glimpse into the lives of local residents near the hot springs. In the late afternoon, drive to Hawassa for a lakeside stroll to watch the sunset before spending the night at a resort.
Day 3: Hawassa – Tiya – Addis Ababa
In the morning, visit Hawassa’s famous fish market and take a boat trip to spot hippos. On the return journey to Addis Ababa, stop to see the mysterious UNESCO-listed stelae of Tiya and the prehistoric site of Melka Kunture, which features a museum on the Rift Valley’s ancient history.
