A day Trip to Wenchi Crater Lake

• 1 Day
• Central Ethiopia

Overview

Wanchi Crater Lake is a stunning volcanic crater lake located in the Oromia Region, about 155 kilometers west of Addis Ababa, near the town of Ambo. The lake is set within a deep crater, surrounded by lush green hills and dense forests, making it one of the most beautiful natural attractions in Ethiopia. The lake itself is about 3.5 kilometers in diameter and is home to several small islands, one of which hosts an ancient monastery. Visitors can explore the lake by boat, hike the surrounding trails, or visit the local hot springs. Wanchi Crater Lake is also a popular spot for horseback riding, offering scenic views of the lake and the surrounding landscape.

Wenchi Crater Lake is a stunning natural wonder and an excellent choice for a day trip from Addis Ababa, offering a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, allowing you to immerse yourself in the serene beauty of the crater lake and its surrounding landscapes.

Estimated Duration: Full day (approx. 10-12 hours, including travel)

Itinerary

Morning: Scenic Drive & Descent into the Crater

7:00 AM: Depart from Addis Ababa
⦁ Your driver/guide will pick you up from your hotel. Head west on the scenic road towards Ambo or Weliso.

⦁ Drive from Addis Ababa to Wenchi Crater Lake (approx. 3 – 3.5 hours, depending on road conditions)

10:30 AM: Arrive at Wenchi Crater Rim
⦁ Reach the crater rim, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the lake, islands, lush valleys, and surrounding farmlands. This is a fantastic photo opportunity.

11:00 AM: Descent to the Lake Shore

From the rim, you’ll embark on a picturesque journey down to the lake shore. You have the option to:

⦁ Horse Riding: The most popular and scenic way to descend, riding a local horse (led by a local guide) through charming villages and beautiful landscapes.

⦁ Trekking/Hiking: For those who prefer to walk, you can trek down to the lake, enjoying the fresh air and scenery.

Note: The descent is about 4 km and takes approximately 1 hour by horse or slightly longer by foot

Midday: Lake Exploration & Cultural Experience

12:00 PM – 1:00 PM: Boat Trip & Island Monastery:

⦁ Upon reaching the lake shore, take a traditional wooden boat (or an aluminum boat for larger groups) across the calm, clear waters of Crater Lake.

⦁ Sail to one of the islands, typically Getu Gedel (Kirkos Island), which hosts an ancient monastery (Saint Kirkos Monastery). Explore the monastery and learn about its history.

1:00 PM – 2:00 PM: Picnic Lunch by the Lake

Enjoy a delicious picnic lunch by the tranquil shores of Wenchi Crater Lake, surrounded by nature’s beauty.

Afternoon: Exploration & Return

2:00 PM – 3:00 PM: Optional Activities/Exploration:

You can choose to explore more of the area around the lake. Options include:

⦁ Visiting the hot springs (local guides can show you the way).
⦁ Short walks along the lake shore or through the surrounding forest.
⦁ Engaging with the local community.

3:00 PM: Ascent from the Lake Shore

Begin your journey back up to the crater rim, again with the option of horse riding or trekking.

4:00 PM: Depart for Addis Ababa
Begin your drive back to the capital, reflecting on the day’s serene and unique experience. The drive from Wenchi Crater Lake to Addis Ababa approximately takes 3 – 3.5 hours.

7:30 PM – 8:00 PM – Arrive back in Addis Ababa: Your driver will drop you off at your hotel or preferred location.

Inclusions

⦁ Private 4WD transportation to and from Addis Ababa
⦁ Local English-speaking guide
⦁ Entrance fees to Wenchi Crater Lake
⦁ Horse riding down to the lake and/or back up
⦁ Boat trip on the lake to the monastery island
⦁ Picnic lunch and bottled water

Important Notes:

⦁ Altitude: Wenchi Crater Lake is at an elevation of over 3,000 meters (9,800 ft) above sea level at the rim. Dress in layers, and be mindful of the altitude, especially if hiking.

⦁ Community Tourism: Wenchi is a great example of community-based tourism, where local associations manage services like horse riding, boat trips, and guiding, directly benefiting the local community.

⦁ Best Time to Visit: Generally, from late September to June offers good weather. The rainy season (June to September) might mean more mist and mud, but also lush greenery.

⦁ What to Bring: Comfortable walking shoes, hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, camera, and possibly some small local currency for personal expenses or souvenirs.

Total Cost: $150 pp

Inclusions
⦁ Private 4WD Transportation
⦁ Round-trip transfer from Addis Ababa in a comfortable 4WD vehicle
⦁ Fuel and professional driver included
⦁ Local English-Speaking Guide
⦁ Accompanying you throughout the day to provide cultural and natural insights
⦁ Entrance Fees
⦁ Access to Wenchi Crater Lake and surrounding community-managed areas
⦁ Horse Riding
⦁ One-way or round-trip horse ride to/from the lake shore with a local horse handler
⦁ Trekking is also optional, but horse riding is included for your convenience
⦁ Boat Ride on Wenchi Lake
⦁ Traditional or aluminum boat across the lake
⦁ Visit to Getu Gedel (Kirkos) Island Monastery
⦁ Picnic Lunch by the Lake
⦁ A packed meal enjoyed at a scenic lakefront spot
⦁ Bottled Water
⦁ 1–2 bottles of mineral water per person throughout the tour
⦁ Community Interaction
⦁ Opportunities to interact with locals and learn about the community-based tourism model
⦁ Hotel Pick-up and Drop-off in Addis Ababa
⦁ All Taxes and Service Charges

Exclusions
⦁ Accommodation
⦁ This is a day trip only; overnight stays are not included
⦁ Personal Expenses
⦁ Souvenirs, snacks, or drinks are not included in the package
⦁ Tips/Gratuities
⦁ Optional for your guide, driver, and local horse/boat handlers
⦁ Personal Gear
⦁ Bring your own sunscreen, insect repellent, hat, and hiking shoes
⦁ Camera/Photography Fees
⦁ Usually not charged, but some monasteries may request small donations
⦁ Travel or Health Insurance
⦁ Participants are responsible for their own insurance
⦁ Additional Coffee/Drinks
⦁ Outside of the provided picnic and water, extra drinks are not included