Traveling from Addis Ababa into Ethiopia’s striking natural scenery often feels like stepping into a different world. This 2-day tour offers a well-rounded taste of Ethiopia’s diverse landscapes, wildlife, and volcanic lakes — all packed into a manageable adventure. Whether you’re a nature lover, avid photographer, or simply craving a break from city life, this trip promises plenty of memorable moments.
Three things that stand out about this tour are the chance to see wildlife in their natural habitat, relaxing in mineral-rich hot springs, and the stunning views around the crater lakes. It’s a well-structured experience with highlights at every turn.
That said, a possible consideration is the long drive — about 4-5 hours each way — which might be tiring for some. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy road trips and outdoor adventures, and those with a flexible schedule willing to embrace a full, active couple of days.
If you love exploring new landscapes, spotting wildlife, and experiencing authentic local environments, this tour offers excellent value. It’s perfect for those wanting a taste of Ethiopia’s wilderness without too much hassle.
Key Points
- Wildlife Viewing: Spot diverse animals like Oryx, Crocodiles, and over 450 bird species.
- Thermal Springs: Relax in warm, mineral-rich hot springs at Doho Lodge.
- Scenic Lakes: Enjoy boat trips and lakeside walks at Debre Zeit Crater Lakes.
- Expert Guidance: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with local insights.
- Comfort & Convenience: Includes transportation, entrance fees, and meals.
- Cost-Effective: At $300 per person, it offers a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation.
An Introduction to the Experience
This tour from Addis Ababa offers a glimpse into Ethiopia’s natural beauty with a blend of wildlife encounters, volcanic landscapes, and relaxing hot springs. It’s a practical option for those short on time but eager to see some of the country’s most iconic sights.
We love the way it balances active exploration, like game drives and boat trips, with relaxing moments, such as soaking in thermal springs. Plus, the guides are praised for their knowledge, making each part of the journey both educational and engaging.
One thing to keep in mind is the drive, which can be quite long, but that’s part of the adventure — giving you time to enjoy Ethiopia’s lush highlands and rural scenes. This tour is best suited for travelers who are comfortable on the road, love outdoor activities, and want to get a good dose of Ethiopia’s wilderness in a short time.
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Discovering Awash National Park
Awash National Park is Ethiopia’s first protected area, and it covers over 2,000 square kilometers of diverse landscapes, from riverbeds to volcanic formations. The game drive scheduled for early on Day 2 is the highlight here, with the chance to see Oryx, Swines Hartebeest, Bushbucks, and even crocodiles.
The park is also a birder’s paradise, home to more than 450 species. Many reviews mention how guides point out birds like the Lappet-faced Vultures and rare Sofala Weavers. The wildlife is most visible around the Awash River and its waterfalls, making these spots especially rewarding for wildlife enthusiasts.
Travelers have noted the guides’ expertise, with one saying, “Our guide, Samson, was incredibly knowledgeable about the wildlife and the park’s geography, making the game drive even more fascinating.” This highlights how a good guide can turn a simple drive into a memorable educational experience.
The drive itself is scenic, with views of the highlands giving way to semi-arid plains as you head east. The landscape’s stark beauty is a stark contrast to Ethiopia’s lush highlands, offering a different perspective on the country’s diversity.
Hot Springs at Doho Lodge
Arriving at Doho Lodge in the afternoon offers the perfect opportunity to unwind. The lodge’s location inside the park means you’re surrounded by wilderness, and it’s renowned for its warm, mineral-rich hot springs. Guests have enjoyed bathing in the springs after a day of travel, describing it as a soothing and authentic experience.
The lodge itself offers comfortable accommodations with panoramic views of the landscape. Sitting on the veranda at sunset, you can watch the park’s wildlife roam nearby, making it an ideal spot for both relaxation and wildlife viewing.
Dinner at the lodge tends to feature traditional Ethiopian dishes, providing a taste of local cuisine in a peaceful setting. Many reviews mention the simple yet hearty meals, which complement the natural vibe of the area.
Exploring the Debre Zeit Crater Lakes
On Day 2, after breakfast, the focus shifts to the stunning volcanic lakes of Debre Zeit, also known as Bishoftu. Visiting Bishoftu Lake and Hora Lake, travelers can enjoy peaceful lakeside walks and picturesque views that are perfect for photography.
What really makes this part special is the boat trip on one of the lakes. This offers a different perspective of the volcanic landscape, with many guests noting how serene and scenic the experience feels. Wildlife sightings here are more subtle but include various waterfowl and bird species, adding to the lakes’ tranquil charm.
Multiple reviewers mention how the lakes are a favorite part of the trip, calling the boat ride “a peaceful escape” and praising the guides for helping them spot local birds. It’s a gentle, scenic way to close out the adventure before heading back to Addis Ababa.
More Great Tours NearbyLogistics and Practical Tips
The tour departs early in the morning from Addis Ababa around 9:00 AM, giving you plenty of time to maximize your two days. The journey involves about 4-5 hours of driving each way, passing through towns like Debre Zeit, Mojo, and Nazret, which offer glimpses into everyday Ethiopian life.
Transportation is by private car, which ensures comfort and flexibility. The tour includes entrance fees to Awash National Park, a game drive, a boat trip on the lakes, overnight accommodation, and meals — making it a straightforward and well-organized package.
Keep in mind that the tour is not suitable for pregnant women, children under 6, or those with back problems, mainly because of the long drives and outdoor activities. Also, travelers should bring comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, camera, and water to stay comfortable and capture the experience.
What’s Included and What’s Not
Included are transportation, an English-speaking guide, park entrance fees, game drives, a boat trip, overnight stay at Doho Lodge, dinner on Day 1, and breakfast on Day 2 — a solid package that covers the essentials for a memorable adventure.
Excluded are lunches and personal expenses, so bringing some snacks or extra drinks is advised, especially if you want to stay energized during the long drives or outdoor excursions.
Why This Tour Is Worth Considering
This trip is a good value for travelers who want a varied experience in Ethiopia without stressing about logistics. The combination of wildlife, volcanic lakes, and hot springs makes it a well-rounded adventure.
It’s also a chance to see Ethiopia’s diverse landscapes in just two days, which is ideal for those with limited time or who prefer a guided experience. The inclusion of professional guides enhances the experience, providing insights that you might not find in guidebooks.
The price point of $300 per person is reasonable, especially considering the multiple activities, accommodations, and transport included. It offers a convenient way to tick off some of Ethiopia’s most photogenic spots with minimal fuss.
Final Thoughts: Is This Tour For You?
If you are craving a quick escape into Ethiopia’s wilderness, this tour offers a balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and culture. You’ll love the chance to see wildlife up close, soak in thermal springs, and enjoy tranquil lakes. The knowledgeable guides make the experience richer, helping you spot animals and answer your questions along the way.
However, be prepared for a full, sometimes bumpy day of travel. If long drives and outdoor activities aren’t your thing, this might feel a bit tiring. But if you’re open to adventure, this trip delivers genuine encounters with Ethiopia’s natural beauty.
This tour suits travelers seeking a practical, value-packed getaway that combines wildlife, volcanic landscapes, and relaxing hot springs — all in a manageable two days.
FAQ
Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, transportation by private car is included, ensuring comfort and convenience throughout the trip.
What is the tour price?
The cost is $300 per person, which covers most activities, accommodations, and meals.
Are guide services available during the tour?
Yes, an English-speaking guide is included, with many reviews praising their local knowledge and friendliness.
What wildlife can I expect to see?
You might spot animals like Oryx, Crocodiles, Swines Hartebeest, Bushbucks, and various bird species such as vultures and weavers.
Can I relax in hot springs?
Absolutely. Doho Lodge offers mineral-rich hot springs perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring.
What lakes are visited on the trip?
Bishoftu Lake and Hora Lake are visited, with boat trips offering scenic views and peaceful lakeside experiences.
How long is the drive from Addis Ababa?
The drive is approximately 4-5 hours each way, passing through beautiful highland scenery.
Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 6, pregnant women, or people with back problems due to the long drives and outdoor activities.
What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, water, and a camera are recommended to stay comfortable and capture memories.
This 2-day adventure provides a practical and authentic way to experience Ethiopia’s diverse natural landscapes, wildlife, and volcanic lakes. It’s designed for travelers who appreciate guided tours, scenic drives, and outdoor relaxation, promising a memorable snapshot of Ethiopia’s wild side.
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