From Addis Ababa: Bisheftu Lake Side Tour

If you’re looking to escape the bustle of Ethiopia’s capital and soak in some breathtaking nature, the Bisheftu Lake Side Tour offers a compelling getaway. While not a strenuous adventure, this experience packs in enough scenic beauty, local flavor, and relaxing moments to make it worthwhile. From a peaceful boat ride to spotting flamingos, it’s a balanced mix of nature, culture, and comfort—ideal for travelers craving a quick yet authentic side of Oromia’s famous crater lakes.

What really stands out are the beautiful crater lakes, especially Lake Bishoftu itself, and the chance to see migratory birds in their natural habitat. We also appreciate the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off, making it a seamless day trip. A potential snag? The weather can get hot, so packing sun protection is a must. Still, if you enjoy scenic landscapes and want to experience Ethiopia’s volcanic crater lakes beyond Addis’ city streets, this tour hits the mark.

This tour is especially suited for nature lovers, bird watchers, couples seeking romantic atmospheres, and those wanting a relaxed day out. It’s also a good option for travelers who prefer guided experiences with local insights, rather than wandering solo. Now, let’s explore what makes this trip so uniquely charming.

Stunning crater lakes: Visit three beautiful lakes—Hora, Kuriftu, and Babogaya—set in volcanic craters.
Birdwatching: Spot flamingos, pelicans, and migrating European cranes, especially from November to February.
Boat ride: Enjoy a tranquil 1-hour boat trip on Lake Bishoftu for a different perspective.
Convenient logistics: Hotel pickup and drop-off make this an easy, stress-free day from Addis.
Authentic scenery: Experience Oromia’s scenic views and lush landscapes along the highway.
Additional highlights: Visit a local garden and coffee farm to add cultural flavor.

Contents show

Exploring the Bishoftu Crater Lakes

The core of this tour is to unveil the stunning natural landscapes of Bishoftu, a town famous for its volcano-created crater lakes. The lakes are clustered within a 50 km radius from Addis Ababa, making this a manageable day trip that offers a fresh perspective on Ethiopia’s volcanic past.

Lake Bishoftu, also known as Lake Hora, is the centerpiece, with its calm waters and surrounding lush scenery. During the tour, you’ll have opportunities to admire the landscape from various viewpoints, with the added bonus of a boat ride on the lake. The boat provides a peaceful escape from the shore, allowing you to gaze back at the hills and volcanoes that formed this natural wonder.

On the drive, the scenery is a treat in itself. We loved the way the highway cuts through Oromia’s vibrant countryside, with fields, small villages, and distant volcanic cones. This scenic drive creates a perfect backdrop for any photographer or anyone craving some peaceful nature during Ethiopia’s busy capital city.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Visiting Lake Hora and Other Crater Lakes

Two of the standout stops are Lake Hora and Kuriftu, both situated in volcanic craters that flood the landscape with their striking beauty. Lake Hora, in particular, is set in twin volcanic craters, offering a picture-perfect scene of still waters fringed with greenery. Many reviews highlight how serene and picturesque these lakes are—ideal for a relaxed stroll, photo sessions, or just soaking in the calm atmosphere.

The Kuriftu water park and Babogaya Lake further diversify the experience. Kuriftu, with its amenities and accommodation options, allows for a more leisurely or even overnight stay, should you wish to extend your visit. Meanwhile, Babogaya Lake is known for its birdlife, particularly the arrival of flamingos and pelicans, which some travelers find mesmerizing.

From November to February, the lakes become a birdwatcher’s paradise, as hundreds of migrant European cranes and other birds choose this area as their winter stop. One review pointed out that “flamingos and pelicans can be seen right at the lakes, adding a colorful touch to the scenery.” This makes the tour not just a visual delight but also an excellent opportunity for wildlife enthusiasts.

Looking for more options in Addis Ababa? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

The Boat Ride Experience

One of the tour’s highlight features is the one-hour boat ride on Lake Bishoftu. This quiet cruise is a peaceful interlude, giving you a different view of the crater’s calm waters. Many reviewers mention how relaxing the boat trip is, offering a chance to appreciate the landscape from the water, away from the crowds.

The boat fee is included in the tour price, so it’s a straightforward add-on. Travelers have described it as “a peaceful 60 minutes that offered a new perspective on the lakes,” and appreciated how it added a layer of tranquility to the busy day.

Local Culture and Additional Attractions

Beyond the lakes, the tour includes visits to small gardens and a coffee farm. Ethiopia is renowned for its coffee, and visiting a local farm adds cultural depth to the trip. You can learn about coffee cultivation and maybe even sample fresh brews—an authentic taste of Ethiopian hospitality.

The town of Bishoftu itself is charming, with local markets, cafes, and spots to relax. Many visitors enjoy walking around the lakeside hotels, especially on weekends when locals also flock here for weekend getaways. Several reviews mention that the lakeside hotels provide a cozy, romantic ambiance—perfect for couples looking for a scenic backdrop for a honeymoon or wedding.

Practical Details and Tour Logistics

This tour, priced at $80 per person, offers solid value considering the included activities, transport, and guided commentary. The pickup and drop-off at your hotel in Addis Ababa take the hassle out of planning, making it accessible even for travelers unfamiliar with local transportation.

The tour is guided in English, with knowledgeable guides providing insights into the lakes’ volcanic origins, bird species, and local culture. The group size is generally manageable, fostering a personable experience, and the entire trip lasts about a full day, with flexible start and end times.

Travelers should remember to bring comfortable shoes, a hat, camera, and sunscreen—the weather can get quite hot, especially near the lakes. Since smoking and flash photography are not allowed, it’s best to respect these rules to ensure a smooth experience.

More Great Tours Nearby

What Reviewers Say

Multiple reviews echo the tour’s scenic beauty and relaxing pace. One mentions that “the lakeside atmosphere feels like a little slice of paradise,” while another highlights the “stunning views of the volcanic craters”. Feedback also points to the well-organized logistics and the convenience of hotel pickup, allowing visitors to focus on enjoying the scenery rather than navigating.

Some reviewers note that, during weekends, the area becomes lively, with many Addis residents heading to Bishoftu for leisure. This adds a fun, local vibe but also means the lakeside can get busy, which might appeal to those looking for a lively atmosphere or those preferring early mornings for quieter views.

There's plenty more to explore in Addis Ababa

The Sum Up

The Bisheftu Lake Side Tour offers an excellent way to experience Ethiopia’s volcanic landscapes without straying far from Addis Ababa. Its blend of scenic lakes, birdwatching opportunities, and a peaceful boat ride makes it especially appealing for nature lovers and couples seeking a romantic escape. The inclusion of local cultural insights through visits to a coffee farm enriches the experience further.

At $80, the value is quite favorable considering the sights, guided commentary, and hassle-free transportation. If you’re looking for a day of tranquility, stunning landscapes, and authentic Ethiopian scenery, this tour delivers. It’s best suited for travelers craving a relaxed, scenic adventure with a touch of wildlife and local culture.

For those wanting a scenic, well-organized escape from the city, this trip will likely leave you with memorable views and new wildlife friends. Just remember to pack sunscreen and a camera to capture those truly memorable moments.

FAQs

How far is Bishoftu from Addis Ababa?
Bishoftu is approximately 50 km from Addis Ababa, making it a manageable day trip.

What is included in the tour price?
The $80 fee covers guided transportation, visits to three crater lakes (Hora, Kuriftu, Babogaya), a 1-hour boat ride on Lake Bishoftu, a drive through the countryside, and coffee and water.

Are there any additional costs?
Food and alcohol are not included, so you may want to bring snacks or plan to buy meals locally.

Is the tour suitable for families or people with mobility issues?
It’s not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, mainly due to walking on uneven terrain and boat activities.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, camera, and sunscreen are recommended, especially given the hot weather near the lakes.

When is the best time to see migratory birds?
From November to February, when hundreds of European cranes and other migratory birds overnight at the lakes.

How long does the tour last?
It’s a full-day experience, with pickup and return to your hotel in Addis Ababa.

Can I book this tour last minute?
Yes, you can reserve and pay later, providing flexibility to fit your travel schedule.

Is there a guide during the tour?
Yes, an English-speaking guide will accompany you, sharing insights about the lakes, birds, and local culture.