Day Trip from Addis Ababa to Crater Lakes at Bishoftu
Description
Take a relaxing escape from Addis Ababa and discover the stunning volcanic crater lakes of Bishoftu with Addis Authentic Tours. This day trip offers a perfect blend of nature and culture, giving you the opportunity to learn about Oromo traditions while enjoying breathtaking landscapes. Along the way, you’ll enjoy bird watching, taste local beverageS and take a peaceful boat trip on a volcanic lake. An ideal getaway for travelers seeking tranquility, culture, and natural beauty just outside the capital.
Tour Options
Itinerary
Located 65km far from Addis Ababa (1h30 driving),Bishoftu means sweetness in Oromo language and used to be known as Debre Zeit "Mount of Olives". Bishoftu can be reached in an hour drive from Addis and is a popular place for tourists and locals to relax and enjoying fresh air and natural landscapes. Bishoftu is the home of resorts and of five crater lakes (Bishoftu, Hora, Babogaya, Kuriftu and Chelekleka) as well as the gateway of Ethiopian great Rift Valley. The tour will start by visiting Bishofu Lake which is the second deepest lake in Ethiopia (90 meters deep) and traditional ethiopian habitations(Tukul) to learn how to make the homemade alcohol drink (Areki). After enjoying traditional coffee ceremony, the tour will continue with a walk around Babogaya Lake. This is a chance to see plenty different bird species.
Kuriftu Resort is located by Kuriftu Lake and offers different activities such as kayak, water park, sauna, etc. During lunch time, the tour will continue at Kuriftu Resort to taste delicious ethiopian food and have kayak tour on Kuriftu Lake.
Highlights
What's included
Pickup Locations & Times
We are ready to pick up our customers wherever they are located.
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Reviews(7)
I spent two amazing days touring with Alex and his company, and I honestly couldn't have asked for a better experience. On the first day, we explored Addis Ababa like locals. Alex showed me all the places I wanted to see and answered every question I had with incredible knowledge and patience. The experience went far beyond my expectations. His professionalism, passion, and genuine love for his country completely changed my perception of Ethiopia and its people. On the second day, we explored the surroundings of the city and learned about Ethiopian culture and the country's diverse tribes. We visited museums, met many local people, and thanks to Alex's connections, we had authentic experiences that would have been impossible to find on our own. What impressed me the most was his ability to adapt the itinerary to my interests and make every moment meaningful. Alex is not just a guide; he is someone who truly cares about giving visitors the best possible experience. I would highly recommend him to anyone visiting Ethiopia or Addis Ababa. I will definitely tour with him again and will personally recommend him to my family and friends. Thank you, Alex, for an unforgettable experience!
I took this tour today and I have to say it was truly wonderful, allowing me to experience nature and enchanting landscapes. I was a little hesitant about taking the tour, as I was alone in Addis Ababa for work. However, Alex and Atsede took great care of me and made my experience safe, pleasant, and authentic. Ameseghenallo!
Dear Juliana, Thank you so much for your kind and thoughtful review! We are truly pleased to hear that you had such a wonderful experience and were able to enjoy the beautiful nature and enchanting landscapes. It means a lot to us that, despite your initial hesitation, you felt safe, comfortable, and well taken care of throughout the tour. Alex and Atsede will be especially happy to hear your kind words. They are passionate about creating authentic and memorable experiences, and your feedback means so much to them. Thank you again for trusting us during your time in Addis Ababa. We hope to have the pleasure of welcoming you back again in the future! Addis Authentic Tours Team
The crater lakes were beautiful and the birds were stunning but what made this day extra special was the wonderful company of Alex and Atsede. Learning about the history and culture of Ethiopia was worth the money itself. Truly memorable!
Dear Clients, Thank you so much for your kind words! We’re thrilled that you enjoyed the beauty of the crater lakes and the incredible birdlife. Alex and Atsede will be delighted to hear that their guidance and stories about Ethiopia’s history and culture made the day extra special. Your feedback means a lot to us, and we’re so glad the experience was memorable. We hope to welcome you back for another adventure in Ethiopia soon! Warm regards, Addis Authentic Tours
Visiting for work, I wanted an easy Sunday trip that left me some downtime. It was nice as a solo woman to sit up front with female driver Atsede and her great playlist, while guide Alex pointed out everything of interest as we left the city and headed out through the countryside for about 50 minutes. We stopped at several lakes to spot flamingos, giant marabou storks, egrets, ibis and kingfishers, armed with Alex's binoculars and bird book. For lunch, we visited a charming garden cafe for delicious (and inexpensive US$5) fried fish, great coffee and conversation. Beware the hot sauce and be ready for a shot of areki - letenachin (cheers)! Recommended if you're looking for a change of pace after a hectic city tour, with security and good company. Would also suit visitors who find an Addis tour a mobility challenge, and keen birders/photographers.
Dear Alexandra, Thank you very much for taking the time to share such a thoughtful and detailed review. We are truly delighted to hear that your Sunday escape to Bishoftu provided the calm, fresh air, and enjoyable company you were looking for after a busy work schedule in Addis. It means a lot to us that you felt comfortable and at ease as a solo traveler. Thank you also for highlighting the relaxed pace, accessibility, and sense of security, which are very important values for us at Addis Authentic Tours. Your recommendation truly encourages us, and we would be honored to welcome you again on another journey in Ethiopia. Warm regards ADDIS AUTHENTIC TOUR
A real moment of relaxation... The lakes are beautiful. It was very good to get out of the noise of Addis Ababa. I was able to recharge my batteries in contact with nature. I had a private tour, so Mulugeta was flexible and forceful to adapt my circuit to my desires. Nothing to say: I arrived in Addis Ababa alone and I leave with a new friend, Mulugeta, and many beautiful memories in mind.
Dear Karen, Thank you so much for your beautiful review. I am very happy to hear that your day by the lakes brought you peace, relaxation, and a refreshing escape from the busy atmosphere of Addis Ababa. Nature in this region is truly special, and i am happy you were able to fully enjoy it. I am very touched by your words. Yes, you were not only my guest during your stay, we became close friends Thank you for choosing us and for sharing this beautiful moment. We would be honored to welcome you again anytime. Mulugeta
I would first like to give a special thank you to my tour guide host Alex, you are fantastic and now I consider you a good friend. Alex gives you all the history and he informs you on everything you need to know in exquisite fashion he is well spoken and easy to understand. This tour will make you fall in love with the beauty of Ethiopia. We drank local tequila had local food we met indigenous people we saw the beauty of the lakes this tour is well worth the money. I look forward to coming back and doing more tours with this Company thank you Alex your Jamaican friend living in Canada
I made a last-minute reservation for a family trip, but they treated me so kindly and I was able to contact them via WhatsApp so I didn't have to worry. Guide Alex was a very sensible and devoted guide to his work! I was really grateful that they adjusted the tour time and content to fit my tight schedule and arrived at my accommodation accordingly :) If you're visiting Addis Ababa, I recommend taking a tour at least once!
