Doho Lodge & Hot Springs

Doho Lodge is a unique eco-lodge located on the edge of the Awash National Park, about 248 km east of Addis Ababa. Nestled beside a natural hot spring lake, it offers a tranquil and immersive experience for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and wellness travelers alike.

Natural Hot Springs

The lodge is built around geothermal hot springs that feed into a warm, mineral-rich lake. Several open-air pools—both shared and private—are carved into the earth and surrounded by palms and reeds. These springs are known for their therapeutic benefits, attracting visitors seeking relaxation and healing.

Scenic Wildlife & Nature

Set in a biodiverse landscape, Doho is home to a wide array of wildlife. Guests often spot baboons, warthogs, colobus monkeys, ostriches, and sometimes even hippos and crocodiles around the lake. The area is also a paradise for birdwatchers, with over 450 bird species recorded in and around the park.

Cultural Experiences & Activities

Visitors can engage in:

  • Guided game drives through nearby Awash National Park

  • Birdwatching tours with local experts

  • Boating on the lake

  • Camel rides and bush walks

  • Visits to local Afar villages for cultural immersion

  • Campfires and stargazing at night

Dining & Facilities

The lodge’s restaurant offers a mix of local Ethiopian dishes and Western meals, with a special emphasis on organic ingredients. A standout feature is the “Tree Bar,” a wooden bar built among the trees overlooking the lake—ideal for sunset drinks.

Accommodation

Doho Lodge offers a range of accommodations:

  • Traditional-style cottages: Eco-friendly with en-suite bathrooms, hot spring showers, and thatched roofs.

  • Safari tents: For budget travelers and adventurers, these are basic but comfortable, set right near the lake or spring pools.

  • All rooms provide stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere.

Accessibility

Doho is accessible by car from Addis Ababa, with the last stretch being gravel road. 4WD vehicles are recommended, especially during the rainy season. The lodge also offers transportation and guided tour packages for groups or families.

8-day historic route tour itinerary looks exciting! Here's a breakdown of your tour:

Day 1: Addis Ababa to Bahir Dar

  • Start your journey from Addis Ababa and drive to Bahir Dar. Check-in at Lake Avenue Hotel in Bahir Dar for an overnight stay.

Day 2: Blue Nile Waterfalls and Lake Tana Monastery

  • Visit the majestic Blue Nile Waterfalls, also known as Tis Issat, near Bahir Dar. Explore the ancient monasteries located on the islands of Lake Tana. Return to Lake Avenue Hotel for another night.

Day 3: Bahir Dar to Gondar

  • Depart from Bahir Dar and drive to Gondar. Visit the famous Gondar Castle, also known as Fasil Ghebbi, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Spend the night at Haile Resort in Gondar.

Day 4: Simien Mountains National Park

  • Drive from Gondar to Simien Mountains National Park. Enjoy thebreathtaking scenery of the Simien Mountains, which is also a UNESCO World Heritage site. Overnight stay at Debark Lodge.

Day 5: Simien Mountains to Lalibela

  • Depart from Simien Mountains and drive to Lalibela. Arrive in Lalibela and check-in at Sora Lodge for an overnight stay.

Day 6: Rock-Hewn Churches of Lalibela

  • Spend the full day exploring the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Discover the ancient religious sites, including the famous churches of St.George and Bet Giyorgis. Return to Sora Lodge for another night.

Day 7:Lalibela to Addis Ababa

  • Fly from Lalibela back to Addis Ababa. Enjoy a relaxing afternoon in Addis Ababa. Stay overnight at Best Western Plus Hotel.

Day 8:Full Day City Tour of Addis Ababa

  • Explore the vibrant city of Addis Ababa on a full-day city tour. Visit popular attractions such as the National Museum, Holy Trinity Cathedral, and the bustling Merkato market.

 

 End your tour in Addis Ababa

7 Days safari to chebera churchura national park a rich and untouched widerness and culture

Chebera Churchura National Park found within the western side of the central Omo
Gibe basin, in between Dawro zone and Konta Special Woreda of the Southwestern
Ethiopia. The park is located about 330 & 460 km southwest of Hawassa & Addis
Ababa, respectively. It covers an area of 1215 km2 that ranges in altitude from 700
to 2450 m.a.s.l. Unique and very attractive topography

The Park is fortunate in possessing numerous rivers and streams and four small
creator lakes (Keriballa, Shasho, Koka) which are reason for the rich wildlife resources of the area. Zigina River is rises from the north east highlands of the area
and cross the central part of the park (north to south) and feeds the Omo River (there are also different perennial rivers feeding Omo River crossing the park).

Shoshuma River is rises from the north western highlands of the Konta area  ighlands cross the north eastern part of the park and mixed with Zigina River inside the park, which go down together to Omo River. The prominent topographic features is unique & highly attractive and characterized by unique and highly heterogeneous and hilly terrain, few flat lands and highly undulating to rolling plains with incised river and perennial streams, valley and gorges.

Day 1:  Arrival – Sightseeing Addis (The new Flower)

  • Welcome to Ethiopia! You will be met upon arrival and transferred to your hotel. Refresh and begin your sightseeing of Addis with a drive up to mount Entoto for a panoramic view of Addis. Descend down and drive to the National Museum where you will have a chance to spot the oldest hominids of ‘Lucy’ fossil. Visit and proceed to the Holy Trinity built during the WWII. Then proceed to the Ethnographic Museum, which used to be the palace of Emperor Hailesellase. To wrap up you drive to merkato, the biggest market in East Africa.unity park and entoto park will added if time allows.

Day 2: Addis Ababa – Chebera Churchura National Park

  • Depart Addis Ababa in the morning via either the Addis-Jima- Ameya road or Addis- ShashemeneSodo-Waka-Tocha, and have your lunch on your way. You will arrive in Chebera Churchura National Park in the late afternoon. Enjoy the scenery of the park from the park headquarters and the campsites where you will stay overnight.

Day 3: Chebera Churchura National Park 

  • Morning expedition to the national park where you will walk to the two sites namely Meka and Erka Forests. Here the mammals that inhabit the area are the African elephant, hippopotamus, Cape buffalo, lion, leopard, and birding watching activities are also common. You will be back for lunch and after a break, you will go walk to the hot springs and the waterfall. The schedule also
    includes a small lake visit for birding and to other interesting birding sites. You will stay overnight in the camping

Day 4: Chebera Churchura National Park

  • In the morning, you will depart to the other part of the park namely heading to Borbo Falls and Bulo Lake. Activities include seeing different animals and birds. Then you will have a lunch break. On the afternoon, you will continue to the other sites, visitors can explore 80 kilometers rough dry weather road crossing the western sides of the park and see the entire park or it is also possible to trek inside the park following the footpaths available. Overnight will be in the camp.

Day 5: Chebera Churchura National park to soddo overnight Lewi Resort 

Day 6: Chencha Dorze Villages Arbaminch

  • After breakfast you will take a boat trip in Lake Lake Chamo, to visit the crocodile market, it is a local name for a place in Lake chamo that the crocodiles went out of the lake and chill, there is no buying or selling, also you will see hippos and different kinds of birds later driving to the Dorze village, This people set high up in the Gughe Mountains where we see the traditional
    Dorze beehive shaped huts recognized as one of the visually attractive structural houses. overnight in paradise Lodge.

Day 7:Arba minch Addis Ababa Tiya

  • After having your early breakfast driving to the southern parts of Ethiopia on the way we will see the Tiya, classified by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, where we can see the northern most example of a peculiar type of engraved, standing stelae which stretch across parts of southern Ethiopia. Overnight in Kaleb Hotel

6-day Simien Mountain trekking trip looks exciting! Here's a breakdown of your daily activities:

Day 1:  

  • Arrival in Addis Ababa. Overnight stay at the Best Western Plus Pearl Addis Hotel.

Day 2: 

  • Fly from Addis Ababa to Gonder. Visit the Gonder Castle. Overnight stay at Haile Resort in Gonder.

Day 3:  

  • Drive from Gonder to Simien Mountain. Spend the full day exploring Simien Mountain Overnight stay at a lodge in Simien Mountain.

Day 4: 

  • Enjoy a full day of hiking in Simien Mountain. Overnight camping in Simien Mountain.

Day 5:  

  • Drive back to Gonder. Overnight stay at Haile Resort in Gonder.

Day 6: 

  • Fly from Gonder back to Addis Ababa.

A 6-day coffee tour in Ethiopia sounds like an exciting and immersive experience. Ethiopia is known as the birthplace of coffee, and it offers a rich cultural and historical connection to this beloved beverage. Here's a sample itinerary for a 6-day coffee tour in Ethiopia:

Day 1: Arrival in Addis Ababa

  • Arrive at Bole International Airport in Addis Ababa, the capital city of Ethiopia. Transfer to your hotel and take some time to rest and acclimate to the new environment. In the evening, you can explore Addis Ababa and try some traditional Ethiopian cuisine.

Day 2:Addis Ababa – Coffee History and Culture

  • Start the day with a visit to the Ethnological Museum, which provides insights into Ethiopian culture and history. Next, visit the National Museum, where you can see the famous fossilized remains of “Lucy,” a 3.2-million-year-old hominid. In the afternoon, explore the vibrant Mercato, one of Africa’s largest open-air markets, and taste Ethiopian coffee at a local coffee shop.

Day 3: Addis Ababa – Coffee Cupping and Roasting

  • Begin the day with a visit to a local coffee roastery, where you can learn about the coffee roasting process and participate in a cupping session. Visit the Hager Fikir Theatre, the oldest theater in Ethiopia, to enjoy traditional Ethiopian music and dance performances. In the evening, dine at a traditional Ethiopian restaurant and experience the unique coffee ceremony, a cultural ritual of preparing and serving coffee.

Day 4: Addis Ababa to Jimma

  • Depart from Addis Ababa and fly to Jimma, a city located in the southwestern part of Ethiopia and known for its coffee production. Visit the Jimma Agricultural Research Center to learn about coffee farming practices, cultivation techniques, and ongoing research in the coffee industry. Explore the local coffee farms, interact with farmers, and gain insights into the coffee production process.

Day 5: Jimma – Coffee Tasting and Processing

  • Participate in a coffee tasting session, where you can sample different varieties of Ethiopian coffee and learn about the flavor profiles and characteristics. Visit coffee processing facilities to witness how coffee cherries are sorted, washed, dried, and prepared for export. Engage in discussions with local coffee experts and farmers to deepen your understanding of the Ethiopian coffee industry.

Day 6:Jimma to Addis Ababa – Departure

  • Return to Addis Ababa from Jimma. Take some time to explore local coffee shops and buy Ethiopian coffee beans to bring back home as souvenirs. In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner at a traditional Ethiopian restaurant, where you can savor the flavors of Ethiopian cuisine and reflect on your coffee tour experience.

Transfer to Bole International Airport for your departure.

6 Days to Great Ethiopian Rift valley lakes and omo valley tribes

Here's a summary of your six-day journey:

Day 1: Addis Ababa to Arba Minch 

  • You’ll start by departing from Addis Ababa and driving south to Arba Minch. Once you arrive, you’ll check into Haile Resort and have the evening to relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.

Day 2: Lake Chamo, Lake Abaya, and Dorze Village

  • On this day, you’ll embark on a boat trip on Lake Chamo, which is known for its abundant hippos and crocodiles. Afterward, you’ll explore Nechisar National Park, where you can spot wildlife like zebras and gazelles. You’ll also have the opportunity to visit the Dorze Village, famous for its traditional beehive-shaped houses and weaving techniques. You’ll spend the night at Haile Resort in Arba Minch.

Day 3: Konso Village and Culture

  • Leaving Arba Minch, you’ll head to Konso, renowned for its terraced farming and unique cultural heritage. You’ll have the chance to explore the Konso Cultural Center, where you canlearn about the customs and traditions of the Konso people. You’ll spend the night at Turumi Emerald Lodge in Konso.

Day 4: Turmi and Karo Tribe 

  • On this day, you’ll depart from Konso and travel to Turmi, a town inhabited by the Hamar tribe. Once there, you’ll visit a Karo village, where you can learn about their artistic body painting and scarification practices. You’ll spend the night at Turumi Emerald Lodge in Turmi.

Day 5: Turmi and Mursi Village  

  • You’ll have the opportunity to explore the Mursi village, known for its distinctive lip plates and decorative body scarifications. This will provide you with an insight into their customs and way of life. You’ll spend the night at Jinka Resort in Jinka.

Day 6: Ari Village and Return to Addis Ababa  

  • On the last day of your adventure, you’ll visit an Ari village in the morning, where you can learn about their agricultural practices and traditional lifestyle. Afterward, you’ll transfer to JinkaAirport and fly back to Addis Ababa, concluding your journey through the Omo Valley.

5-day tour itinerary of the Bale Mountains and Addis Ababa looks exciting! Here's a breakdown of each day:

Day 1:

  • Start your tour in Addis Ababa. Travel from Addis Ababa to Dinsho, the gateway to the Bale Mountains National Park. Overnight stay at Tokuma International Hotel in Dinsho.

Day 2: 

  • Explore the Sanetti Plateau in the Bale Mountains National Park. This plateau is known for its stunning landscapes and unique flora and fauna. Keep an eye out for the Ethiopianwolf, which is endemic to the region. Return to Dinsho and spend the night at Tokuma International Hotel.

Day 3: 

  • Leave Dinsho and head to Robe. From Robe, continue to the Sof Omar Cave, one of the largest cave systems in Africa. Overnight stay at Tokuma Langano Savana Lodge.

Day 4:  

  • Depart from Langano and head back to Addis Ababa. En route, make a stop at Lake Bishoftu (also known as Lake Langano), a beautiful crater lake. Arrive in Addis Ababa and spend the night at the Best Western Pearl Addis Ababa Hotel.

Day 5:  

  • Depart from Langano and head back to Addis Ababa. En route, make a stop at Lake Bishoftu (also known as Lake Langano), a beautiful crater lake. Arrive in Addis Ababa and spend the night at the Best Western Pearl Addis Ababa Hotel.

3-night, 4-day tour to the Danakil Depression in Ethiopia. Here's a breakdown of your itinerary:

Day 1: Fly from Addis Ababa to Semera

  • On the first day, you’ll take a flight from Addis Ababa to Semera, which is the gateway to the Danakil Depression. Semera is a small town located in the Afar Region of Ethiopia.

Day 2: Danakil Depression

  • On the second day, you’ll begin your exploration of the Danakil Depression. The Danakil Depression is a unique natural wonder known for its extreme heat and otherworldly landscapes. You’ll have the opportunity to visit several fascinating sites, such as the ErtaAle volcano, known for its continuously active lava lake, and the Dallol hydrothermal field, famous for its colorful mineral deposits and geothermal activity. Be prepared for hot temperatures and harsh conditions during your visit.

Day 3: Danakil Depression

  • The third day will be dedicated to further exploration of the Danakil Depression. Depending on your preferences and the specific tour package you choose, you may have the opportunity to visit additional sites, such as Lake Assale, a salt lake where traditionalsalt mining takes place, or the salt flats of Dallol.

Day 4: Semera to Addis Ababa

  • On the fourth day, you’ll return to Semera and fly back to Addis Ababa, marking the end of your tour. You can spend the remaining time in Addis Ababa exploring the city’s cultural and historical attractions, such as the National Museum of Ethiopia or the Holy Trinity Cathedral.

A 3-day tour to Arba Minch sounds wonderful! Here's a suggested itinerary for your trip:

Day 1: Fly to Arba Minch

  • Arrive in Arba Minch, which is located in the Southern Nations, Nationalities, and Peoples’ Region of Ethiopia .Check into your hotel and take some time to relax and settle in. Depending on your preferences, you can explore some local attractions in Arba Minch, such as the local markets or take a stroll around the town.

Day 2: Dorze Village and Lake Chamo

  • After breakfast, embark on a day trip to Dorze Village. The village is known for its unique traditional houses and skilled weaving techniques. Explore the village and learn about the culture, traditions, and daily life of the Dorze people. You can visit their houses, witness the weaving process, and even try your hand at it. Enjoy a traditional Dorze lunch, which usually includes local dishes such as kocho (a fermented bread) and kitfo (minced raw meat). In the afternoon, head to Lake Chamo, one of the Rift Valley’s beautiful lakes. Take a boat trip on the lake to see the hippos, crocodiles, and various bird species that inhabit the area. The boat trip will offer stunning views of the lake and its surroundings. Return to Arba Minch in the evening and spend the night at your hotel.

Day 3: Fly back to Addis Ababa

  • After breakfast, check out of your hotel and transfer to the airport.Take a domestic flight back to Addis Ababa, the capital city of Ethiopia, where your tour concludes.

Food Tour 1 Night 2 Days

Addis Ababa Ethiopia

If you’re planning a 1-night, 2-day food tour in Addis Ababa, the capital city of
Ethiopia, you’re in for a treat. Addis Ababa is known for its vibrant culinary scene,
offering a variety of traditional Ethiopian dishes as well as international cuisine.
Here’s a suggested itinerary for your food tour:

Day 1: Morning:

  • Start your day with a traditional Ethiopian breakfast at a local restaurant. Injera (a sourdough flatbread) with different stews and spicy sauces like doro wat (chicken stew) or kitfo (minced raw meat) are popular options.
  • . After breakfast, visit the Mercato, one of Africa’s largest open-air markets.
    Explore the colorful stalls and taste some fresh fruits, spices, and snacks. You’ll get a chance to see the vibrant local food culture in action.
  • Lunch and Afternoon:
  • For lunch, head to a traditional Ethiopian restaurant and try a mixed platter
    known as “gursha.” This typically includes injera served with various types of wats (stews), salads, and lentil dishes. Don’t forget to try the national dish, “tibs,” which consists of sautéed meat or vegetables.

In the afternoon, visit the National Museum of Ethiopia. While it’s not food-related, it’s a great opportunity to learn about the country’s rich history and culture.

Evening:

  • For dinner, experience the famous Ethiopian coffee ceremony. Coffee is an
    integral part of Ethiopian culture, and the ceremony involves roasting coffee beans, brewing fresh coffee, and serving it in small cups. You can enjoy the coffee with traditional snacks like popcorn or roasted barley.
  • After dinner, explore Addis Ababa’s nightlife scene. Visit a traditional Ethiopian cultural restaurant with live music and dance performances, where you can enjoy more traditional food and drinks.

Day 2:Morning:

  • Start your morning with a cup of Ethiopian coffee and a light breakfast at a local caf
  • Visit the Holy Trinity Cathedral, an important religious site in Addis Ababa. Explore the beautiful architecture and serene surroundings.

Lunch and Afternoon:

  • For lunch, try some Ethiopian street food. Injera with ful (fava bean stew),
    shawarma, or samosas are popular choices. You can find street food vendors in various parts of the city.
  • In the afternoon, take a guided food tour or cooking class. Learn more about
    Ethiopian cuisine, its ingredients, and cooking techniques. You can also participate in preparing traditional dishes

Evening:

  • . Enjoy a farewell dinner at a high-end Ethiopian restaurant, where you can indulge in a variety of gourmet Ethiopian dishes with a modern twist. End your food tour with a visit to a tej bet (traditional Ethiopian honey wine bar) to taste tej, a fermented honey wine. It’s a sweet and potent drink that Ethiopians enjoy on special occasions.

1 night 2 days to Lalibela

Day 1: ADDIS ABABA TO LALIBELA

  • Take a 1 hour flight from Addis Ababa to Lalibela . After lunch visit will be to the first part of
    11 rock hewn churches of Lalibela made 800 years ago, all carved out (inside and outside) of a
    solid rock and are architecturally unique ranked among the wonders of the world and
    UNESCO World Heritage site. Dinner and overnight in Lal Hotel.

Day 2: LALIBELA TO ADDIS ABABA

  • Explore more of second part of the rock hewn churches of Lalibela at no rush. Late afternoon
    After Lunch catch a flight back to Addis Ababa.

2 Days Experience in Ethiopia

Day 1: Addis Ababa City Tour

  • Morning: Start your day with a visit to the National Museum of Ethiopia, located in Addis Ababa. Here you can see the famous fossil remains of “Lucy,” a 3.2-million-year-old ancestor of humans. Next, head to Holy Trinity Cathedral, one of the most important religious sites in Addis Ababa. It houses the tombs of Emperor Haile Selassie and other prominent figures
  • Afternoon :Explore the Ethnological Museum, located within the grounds of Addis Ababa University. The museum showcases Ethiopia’s rich cultural heritage, including traditional artifacts, art, and exhibits on various ethnic groups. Enjoy dinner at one of Addis Ababa’s traditional Ethiopian restaurants, where you can savor authentic Ethiopian cuisine and
    experience traditional music and dance performances.

Day 2: Debre Libanos and Portuguese Bridge

  • Morning: Start early and drive to Debre Libanos, located approximately 110 kilometers north of Addis Ababa. Debre Libanos is a historic monastery known for its religious significance and picturesque surroundings. Visit the Debre Libanos Monastery, founded in the 13th century. Explore the church, learn about its history, and enjoy the peaceful ambiance
  • Afternoon: Head to the nearby Portuguese Bridge, which spans the dramatic Blue Nile Gorge. This iconic bridge was constructed in the 16th century and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Take a short hike down to the Blue Nile River and enjoy the scenic beauty of the gorge

2 Days Experience in Ethiopia

Day 1: Addis Ababa City Tour

  • Morning: Start your day with a visit to the National Museum of Ethiopia, located in Addis Ababa. Here you can see the famous fossil remains of “Lucy,” a 3.2-million-year-old ancestor of humans. Next, head to Holy Trinity Cathedral, one of the most important religious sites in Addis Ababa. It houses the tombs of Emperor Haile Selassie and other prominent figures
  • Afternoon :Explore the Ethnological Museum, located within the grounds of Addis Ababa University. The museum showcases Ethiopia’s rich cultural heritage, including traditional artifacts, art, and exhibits on various ethnic groups. Enjoy dinner at one of Addis Ababa’s traditional Ethiopian restaurants, where you can savor authentic Ethiopian cuisine and
    experience traditional music and dance performances.

Day 2: Debre Libanos and Portuguese Bridge

  • Morning: Start early and drive to Debre Libanos, located approximately 110 kilometers north of Addis Ababa. Debre Libanos is a historic monastery known for its religious significance and picturesque surroundings. Visit the Debre Libanos Monastery, founded in the 13th century. Explore the church, learn about its history, and enjoy the peaceful ambiance
  • Afternoon: Head to the nearby Portuguese Bridge, which spans the dramatic Blue Nile Gorge. This iconic bridge was constructed in the 16th century and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Take a short hike down to the Blue Nile River and enjoy the scenic beauty of the gorge

Addis Ababa city tour program

Addis Ababa city overview part 1 

  • The National Museum of Ethiopia, located in Addis Ababa, is home to the country’s most valuable historical, archaeological, and artistic treasures. It famously houses the fossilized remains of “Lucy” and “Selam,” among other early hominids. The museum features four main sections: archaeology, ancient and medieval artifacts, traditional and modern Ethiopian art, and ethnographic exhibits showcasing the diverse cultures of Ethiopia.
  • Holy Trinity Cathedral :  Holy Trinity built during the WWII. Known in Amharic as Kidist Selassie, is the highest ranking Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo cathedral in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. It was built to commemorate Ethiopia’s liberation from Italian occupation and is the second most important place of worship in Ethiopia.
  • Mount Entoto :-Mount Entoto is the best spot to enjoy the great scenery of Addis Ababa.
  • Mercato Market :- merkato is the largest open air market in Africa, covering several square miles and employing an estimated 13,000 people in 7,100 business entities. The primary merchandise passing through the Merkato is locally-grown agricultural products — most
    notably coffee.
  • Tiglachin Memorial : The Tiglachin monument is a memorial to Ethiopian and Cuban soldiers involved in the Ogaden War. It was built under Mengistu Haile Mariam on Churchill Avenue in Addis Ababa.
  • Menelik II Square : Menelik II Square is located in the heart of Addis Ababa, the area locally known as Arada. At the center of the square stands a magnificent equestrian statue of the Emperor. The monument was erected by Emperor Haile Selassie I, in 1930, just before his coronation.
  • Shiro Meda Market : Shiro Meda is one of the most outstanding place to buy Ethiopian local made cotton clothes both for woman and men..in addition to different clothes you will get also gifts like neckless and jewelry .

Addis Ababa city tour part 2

  • Main Entrance: As you enter Unity Park, you’ll be greeted by beautiful gardens and a grand entrance gate. The gate features impressive sculptures and traditional Ethiopian art, giving you a taste of the country’s rich artistic heritage.
  • Menelik Palace: Unity Park is located within the historic Menelik Palace compound, which served as the residence of Ethiopian emperors. The palace has been meticulously restored and now houses various exhibits showcasing the history of Ethiopia’s monarchy.
  • Ethiopian History Museum: Within the palace complex, you’ll find the Ethiopian History Museum. Here, you can explore interactive displays and artifacts that narrate the country’s history, from ancient times to the present day. The museum provides insights into Ethiopia’s diverse cultures, traditions, and significant historical events.
  • Presidential Palace: Unity Park also houses the Presidential Palace, which serves as the official residence of the Ethiopian President. While the palace itself is not open to the public, you can admire its impressive architecture and take photos from the outside
  • Empress Menen’s Garden: Unity Park features a beautifully landscaped garden named after Empress Menen, the wife of Emperor Haile Selassie. The garden is adorned with vibrant flowers, fountains, and sculptures, providing a serene and picturesque environment for visitors to relax and enjoy.
  • Haile Selassie Pavilion: The Haile Selassie Pavilion is a highlight of Unity Park. It was the emperor’s private residence within the palace compound. Today, it has been transformed into a museum showcasing the life and accomplishments of Emperor Haile Selassie, who was an influential figure in Ethiopian history.
  • Lion Zoo: Unity Park also houses a small zoo that is home to various indigenous animals, including lions, baboons, and birds. The zoo offers an opportunity to observe Ethiopia’s wildlife up close and learn about conservation efforts in the country.
  • Grand Palace Hall: The Grand Palace Hall is an impressive venue within Unity Park that hosts official events and conferences. The hall showcases Ethiopian architecture and can accommodate a large number of guests.

Friend Ship Park

Friendship Park is situated in the neighborhood of Arada, near the city center. Friendship Park is a popular public space located in the heart of Addis Ababa, the capital city of Ethiopia. It is a vibrant gathering place that holds historical and cultural significance for the local community.

  • Central Monument: The park is dominated by a large central monument known as the “Martyrs’ Memorial Monument.” This monument commemorates Ethiopian martyrs who sacrificed their lives during the Italian occupation from 1936 to 1941.
  • Green Spaces: Friendship Park offers lush green spaces, providing a peaceful
    environment for visitors. The park is dotted with trees, flower beds, and wellmaintained lawns where people can relax, have picnics, or enjoy a pleasant stroll.
  • Cultural Events: Friendship Park is a hub of cultural activities and events. It frequently hosts concerts, exhibitions, and other gatherings, showcasing Ethiopian music, dance, and art. These events provide an opportunity to experience the rich cultural heritage of Ethiopia.
  • Street Vendors: The park is usually bustling with street vendors selling a variety of goods, including traditional crafts, clothing, and snacks. It’s a great place to explore local handicrafts and try some delicious Ethiopian street food.
  • Public Gathering Spot: Friendship Park serves as a popular meeting point for locals and tourists alike. It’s a vibrant and busy area where you can observe the daily life of Addis Ababa. People gather here to socialize, play games, and engage in lively conversations
  • Surrounding Landmarks: The park is surrounded by several important landmarks, including government buildings, hotels, and commercial establishments. If you venture beyond the park, you can explore other attractions such as the National Museum of Ethiopia, Holy Trinity Cathedral, and the Ethiopian National Theatre.

Oromo Cultural Center:

  • Oromo Cultural Center: Start your tour by visiting the Oromo Cultural Center in Addis Ababa. This center showcases various aspects of Oromo culture, including traditional music, dance, clothing, and artifacts. You can learn about the rich history and traditions of the Oromo people through exhibitions and displays.
  • Cultural Performances: Look for cultural events or performances that feature Oromo music, dance, and storytelling. Check with local event organizers, hotels, or cultural centers to find out if there are any scheduled performances during your visit.
  • Traditional Markets: Explore the local markets, such as Merkato and Shiro Meda, where you can find traditional Oromo crafts, textiles, and artwork. These markets offer a vibrant atmosphere and an opportunity to engage with local artisans.
  • Local Communities: Consider connecting with local Oromo communities or organizations in Addis Ababa to learn more about their cultural practices and traditions. They may be able to provide you with more specific recommendations on Oromo cultural experiences
    in the city.

Lake wonchi Day Tours

Lake Wonchi is a beautiful crater lake located in the Oromia region of Ethiopia. It is a popular destination for day tours and offers stunning natural scenery and outdoor activities. Here’s some information about Lake Wonchi day tours:

  •  Departure: Day tours to Lake Wonchi usually start from Addis Ababa, the capital city of Ethiopia.
  • Travel Time: The journey from Addis Ababa to Lake Wonchi takes approximately 3-4 hours by road, depending on traffic conditions and the route taken.
  • Scenic Drive: The road to Lake Wonchi offers picturesque views of the Ethiopian countryside. You’ll pass through lush landscapes, farmlands, and  small villages along the way.
  • Boat Ride: Upon reaching Lake Wonchi, you can take a boat ride on the lake to explore its tranquil waters. The boat ride allows you to soak in the beauty of the surrounding crater walls and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
  • Hiking and Nature Walks: Lake Wonchi is surrounded by lush forests and hills, providing ample opportunities for hiking and nature walks. You can trek along the crater rim and enjoy panoramic views of the lake and its surroundings.
  • Picnic and Relaxation: Lake Wonchi is an ideal spot for a picnic or a relaxing day in nature. There are designated picnic areas where you can unwind, enjoy a meal, and take in the serene environment.
  • Cultural Exploration: In addition to its natural beauty, the Lake Wonchi area is home to local communities. You may have the chance to interact with the local people, learn about their culture, and even visit nearby villages.
  • Hot Springs: Near Lake Wonchi, there are hot springs known as Wonchi Hot Springs. where you can take a soothing dip in the mineral-rich waters.
  • Return to Addis Ababa: After spending the day exploring Lake Wonchi and its surroundings, you’ll return to Addis Ababa in the late afternoon or evening, depending on the tour schedule.