Lakes & Birdlife · Nature & Wildlife
Rift Valley Lakes
South of Addis Ababa, the Great Rift Valley holds a string of lakes, each with its own character, linking the capital with the coffee lands and the Omo Valley.
- Best Time
- September to May
- Suggested Stay
- 1 to 3 days
- Altitude
- 1,580 to 1,700 m
- Region
- Nature & Wildlife
Why We Go
Ziway, Langano and Hawassa: a chain of lakes alive with birds and fishermen.
Lake Ziway is known for its fishermen and island monasteries; Lake Langano, with its reddish-brown water, is one of the few lakes in Ethiopia considered free of bilharzia and is popular for relaxing stays; Lake Hawassa is famous for its lively fish market, where marabou storks wait for scraps.
Almost every southern journey passes through the Rift Valley, and the lakes are excellent for birdwatching at any time of year.
Highlights
- Marabou storks and pelicans at the Lake Ziway shore
- Swimming and lodges on Lake Langano
- The morning fish market at Lake Hawassa
- Wondo Genet hot springs and forest birding
Journeys Including Rift Valley Lakes
Routes that pass through here
Plan This Destination
Build Rift Valley Lakes into your journey
Nothing here is fixed. Tell us how long you have and what else you want to see, and our team will plan the route, including the flights, the guides and the hours that matter.
Let’s Plan Your Ethiopian Adventure
Tell us a little about your travel plans. We’ll help you create a journey that suits your interests.
Discover Ethiopia. Experience the Extraordinary!
Speak to someone who has been there this season
Our guides travel these routes all year. Ask about road conditions, festival dates or the best time to visit. You will get a straight answer.
Or call us directly on +251 912 039405