4-Day Rift Valley Lakes & Cultural Tour

• 5 Day / 4 Night
• Eastern Ethiopia , Central Ethiopia

Overview

Ethiopia’s Great Rift Valley is a geological wonder, stretching from the Red Sea through the country and down to Mozambique. The valley is dotted with a series of beautiful lakes, each with its own unique characteristics. The Rift Valley lakes include Lake Ziway, known for its birdlife; Lake Langano, a popular spot for swimming and water sports; Lake Abijatta and Lake Shalla, which are part of the Abijatta-Shalla National Park and are famous for flamingos and other waterbirds; and Lake Awassa, a picturesque lake surrounded by lush vegetation and home to hippos and numerous bird species. The Rift Valley is also home to several national parks and wildlife reserves, making it a key destination for nature and wildlife enthusiasts.

Highlights
⦁ Duration: 4 Days / 3 Nights
⦁ Start & End Point: Addis Ababa
⦁ Highlights: Bird-rich lakes, an endangered wildlife sanctuary, a unique Rastafarian community, and the vibrant lakeside city of Hawassa.
Itinerary

Day 1: Journey to the Northern Lakes & Lakeside Relaxation.
⦁ Morning (approx. 2.5 – 3 hours drive): Depart from Addis Ababa early in the morning and drive south along the Great Rift Valley towards Lake Ziway.
⦁ Late Morning/Lunch: Arrive at Lake Ziway. Take a boat trip on the lake to visit some of its islands, known for their monasteries (like Debre Sina on Korbet Island) and rich birdlife (pelicans, marabou storks, fish eagles). Enjoy fresh fish for lunch by the lake.
⦁ Afternoon (approx. 1 hour drive): Continue your drive further south to the Lake Langano area. Lake Langano is a bilharzia-free lake, making it safe for swimming.
⦁ Late Afternoon: Check into your lodge by Lake Langano. Relax by the lake, perhaps go for a swim or enjoy the sunset.
⦁ Evening: Dinner and overnight at a lodge around Lake Langano (e.g., Bishangari Lodge, Sabana Beach Resort, or similar).

Day 2: National Park Wildlife, Cultural Encounters & Southern Charm
⦁ Morning (approx. 1 hour drive to park entrance): After breakfast, drive to Abijatta-Shalla Lakes National Park. Explore the park, known for its diverse birdlife, especially flamingos and pelicans on Lake Abijatta, and the hot springs near Lake Shalla. The park also has some gazelles and ostriches. (Note: Wildlife viewing can be limited here compared to other parks, but the landscape is unique).
⦁ Late Morning (approx. 1-1.5 hours drive to Shashamane): Continue your journey south to Shashamane.
⦁ Midday: Visit the Rastafarian Village (Ethiopian World Federation) in Shashamane. Learn about their history and community in Ethiopia. This offers a unique cultural insight.
⦁ Afternoon (approx. 1.5 hours drive from Shashamane): Drive to Sankalle Swayne’s Hartebeest Sanctuary. This sanctuary is dedicated to protecting the endangered Swayne’s Hartebeest, which is endemic to Ethiopia. Enjoy a game drive within the sanctuary to spot these majestic antelopes and other plains game.
⦁ Late Afternoon (approx. 30-45 min drive): After your visit to Sankalle, proceed to Hawassa.
⦁ Evening: Check into your hotel in Hawassa. Dinner and overnight in Hawassa.

Day 3: Hawassa Lake Life & Local Culture.
Morning: Start your day with a visit to the famous Hawassa Fish Market on the shores of Lake Hawassa. Witness the bustling activity as local fishermen bring in their catch, and observe various bird species (pelicans, marabou storks) gathering for scraps.
⦁ Late Morning: Enjoy a boat trip on Lake Hawassa. You might spot hippos, more diverse birdlife, and enjoy the serene beauty of the lake.
⦁ Afternoon: Relax by the lake, stroll along the promenade, or explore the city center of Hawassa. You can also visit the St. Gabriel Church or simply enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of the city.
⦁ Evening: Dinner at a lakeside restaurant. Overnight in Hawassa.

Day 4: Scenic Return to Addis Ababa
Morning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast in Hawassa. Depending on your flight schedule or onward plans, you can have some free time for last-minute souvenir shopping or a final walk by the lake.
⦁ Late Morning/Afternoon (approx. 4-5 hours drive): Begin your drive back to Addis Ababa. You’ll pass through some of the scenic Rift Valley landscapes.
⦁ Late Afternoon/Evening: Arrive in Addis Ababa, concluding your tour.

Total Cost: $750 pp

Inclusions
⦁ Private Transportation
⦁ Comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle with a professional driver throughout the 4-day tour
⦁ All fuel, road tolls, and parking fees included
⦁ Accommodation for 3 Nights
⦁ 1 night at Lake Langano (e.g., Bishangari Lodge, Sabana Beach Resort, or equivalent mid-range lodge)
⦁ 2 nights in Hawassa at a comfortable lakeside hotel (e.g., Haile Resort or similar)
⦁ Based on double or twin occupancy (single supplement may apply)
⦁ Professional English-Speaking Guide
⦁ Throughout the trip, offering insights into nature, culture, and local life
⦁ Entrance Fees to All Sites
⦁ Lake Ziway boat excursion and island monastery visit
⦁ Abidjan-Shalla Lakes National Park
⦁ Sankalle Swayne’s Hartebeest Sanctuary
⦁ Rastafarian Village (Shashamane)
⦁ Hawassa Fish Market
⦁ Lake Hawassa boat trip
⦁ Meals
⦁ Full Board: 3 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 3 dinners
⦁ Includes a mix of Ethiopian and international cuisine
⦁ Bottled water is provided during travel and meals
⦁ Boat Trips
⦁ Guided boat ride on Lake Ziway to the monastery island
⦁ Boat ride on Lake Hawassa for hippo and birdwatching
⦁ Cultural and Wildlife Experiences
⦁ Game drive at Sankalle Sanctuary
⦁ Interaction with the Rastafarian community
⦁ Birdwatching and hippo spotting
⦁ Swimming opportunity at Lake Langano
⦁ All Government Taxes and Service Charges

Exclusions
⦁ International or Domestic Flights
⦁ Not applicable for this itinerary, but flights to/from Ethiopia are not included
⦁ Tips/Gratuities
⦁ At your discretion for guide, driver, and lodge staff
⦁ Personal Expenses
⦁ Souvenirs, drinks not included in meals, laundry, etc.
⦁ Travel Insurance
⦁ Participants are responsible for their own travel and medical insurance
⦁ Items of Personal Use
⦁ Sunscreen, insect repellent, binoculars, medications, etc.
⦁ Single Room Supplement
⦁ Additional cost applies for single travelers requesting private rooms
⦁ Photography or Filming Permits
⦁ Rarely needed, but some monasteries or cultural sites may request a small donation or fee