Awassa (Hawassa), Ethiopia: Best Things to Do – Top Picks

Did you know that Lake Hawassa is one of Ethiopia’s few closed basin lakes with no outlet river? This unique ecological feature creates a self-contained ecosystem that supports an extraordinary diversity of birdlife and aquatic species, including hippos that have become a major attraction for visitors. As the capital of the Sidama Region, Awassa blends natural beauty with vibrant culture, making it one of Ethiopia’s most pleasant destinations.

Getting There & Planning Your Journey

Awassa is located approximately 270 km south of Addis Ababa, making it accessible for a weekend getaway from the capital or as part of a longer Ethiopian journey. There are several ways to reach this lakeside city:

By Air

Hawassa Airport (HWQ) offers domestic flights from Addis Ababa operated by Ethiopian Airlines. Flights take approximately 40 minutes, making this the quickest option. Alternatively, you can fly into Addis Ababa Bole International Airport (ADD) and continue your journey by road.

By Bus

Several bus companies operate comfortable services between Addis Ababa and Awassa:

• Selam Bus: Departs daily at 6:00 AM from Meskel Square in Addis Ababa, costs around 200 ETB (approximately $3.70 USD)
• Sky Bus: Operates daily (except Mondays) at 6:30 AM and 1:00 PM, costs around 150 ETB ($2.80 USD)
• Ethio/Abay Bus: Offers morning and afternoon departures

The journey takes 5-6 hours depending on traffic and road conditions. It’s advisable to purchase tickets at least one day in advance, especially for weekend travel when buses fill quickly with Addis residents heading to Awassa for leisure.

By Private Car

Renting a car gives you the flexibility to explore at your own pace. The road from Addis Ababa to Awassa is generally in good condition, making for a scenic drive through the Ethiopian countryside.

Best Time to Visit Awassa

Awassa enjoys a mild climate year-round due to its elevation of approximately 1,700 meters above sea level. However, certain seasons offer better experiences than others:

Weekends are busier as Awassa is a popular getaway for Addis Ababa residents. If you prefer a quieter experience, consider visiting midweek. For cultural experiences, check if your visit coincides with local Sidama celebrations, particularly the colorful Fichee-Chambalaalla New Year festival (usually in late June or early July).

Getting Around Locally

Awassa is a relatively compact city, making it easy to navigate. Here are the best ways to get around:

Walking

The city center and lakefront area are pedestrian-friendly. Many attractions, restaurants, and hotels are within walking distance of each other. The recently improved cobblestone pathways along the lake make for pleasant strolls.

Bajaj (Tuk-Tuk)

These three-wheeled vehicles, locally known as “bajaj,” are the most common form of transportation in Awassa. They’re affordable and abundant – simply flag one down on the street. A typical ride within the city should cost between 30-50 ETB ($0.55-0.95 USD). Always agree on the price before starting your journey.

Taxis

Blue and white taxis are available but less common than bajaj. They’re slightly more expensive but might be more comfortable for longer distances.

Boat Transportation

To explore Lake Hawassa, you can hire boats from the lakefront area. A one-hour boat trip costs approximately 500 ETB ($9.25 USD) for the entire boat, which can accommodate 5-6 people.

Where to Stay

Awassa offers accommodation options ranging from luxury resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses. Here are some recommendations based on your budget:

Luxury Options

Mid-Range Options

Budget Options

Dining & Local Cuisine

Awassa offers a delightful culinary scene, with fresh fish from the lake being a highlight. Here are some top dining options and local specialties to try:

Lakeside Fish Restaurants

The shores of Lake Hawassa are lined with restaurants serving freshly caught tilapia and other fish species. These establishments offer a unique dining experience where you can enjoy your meal while watching the sunset over the lake. A typical fish meal costs between 100-200 ETB ($1.85-3.70 USD).

Top Restaurants

• Venetia Restaurant – Run by an Italian-Ethiopian family, this restaurant serves some of the best pizzas in Ethiopia. Located in the southwestern part of town.
• Dolce Vita – Another excellent Italian option offering pasta, pizza, and other Mediterranean dishes.
• Hi Life Bar+Grill – Located in Lake View Hotel, this restaurant serves a varied menu of fresh and bold flavors.
• Tropical Burger – A popular spot for burgers, fresh juices, and Ethiopian coffee in a garden setting.
• Lewi’s Resort Restaurant – Offers both Ethiopian and international cuisine in a beautiful lakeside setting (watch out for the monkeys who might try to steal your sugar!).

Local Specialties to Try

Coffee Culture

Ethiopia is the birthplace of coffee, and Awassa has several excellent cafés where you can experience the traditional coffee ceremony. Time Café in the main square is a popular spot among locals and visitors alike.

Attractions, Sightseeing & Activities

Awassa offers a variety of attractions centered around its beautiful lake and vibrant urban life. Here are the top things to see and do:

Lake Hawassa

The centerpiece of the city, Lake Hawassa offers numerous activities:

• Boat Tours – Take a boat ride to spot hippos and various bird species. Tours typically last about an hour and cost around 500 ETB ($9.25 USD) per boat.
• Sunset Watching – The lake provides spectacular sunset views, best enjoyed from one of the lakeside restaurants or bars.
• Lakeside Promenade – Stroll along the recently improved cobblestone pathway that runs along parts of the lake shore.

Hawassa Fish Market

Located on the southwestern edge of town, this vibrant morning market offers a fascinating glimpse into local life. Watch as fishermen bring in their catch and pelicans and marabou storks gather to snatch scraps. There’s a 50 ETB ($0.95 USD) entrance fee, and while guides will offer their services, they’re not necessary for such a small market.

City Center

Explore Awassa’s main square with its cylindrical monument and nearby church. The area has several cafés, including the popular Time Café, where you can relax and watch city life unfold.

Museums, Cultural Spots & Festivals

While Awassa isn’t known for its museums, it offers rich cultural experiences that provide insight into the Sidama people and their traditions:

Cultural Experiences

• Sidama Cultural Center – Learn about the traditions, crafts, and lifestyle of the Sidama people who inhabit this region.
• Traditional Coffee Ceremony – Experience Ethiopia’s famous coffee ceremony, a ritual that can last hours and involves roasting, grinding, and brewing coffee beans while socializing.
• Local Markets – Monday is the main market day in Awassa, offering an authentic glimpse into local commerce and culture.

Festivals

If your visit coincides with these celebrations, they offer unforgettable cultural experiences:

• Fichee-Chambalaalla – The Sidama New Year celebration, usually held in late June or early July, featuring colorful processions, traditional music, and dancing.
• Timket – The Ethiopian Orthodox celebration of Epiphany in January, marked by processions and ceremonies.
• Ethiopian New Year (Enkutatash) – Celebrated in September with family gatherings and festivities.

Nearby Cultural Sites

Within a day trip’s distance from Awassa:

• Shashamane Rastafarian Community – Less than an hour’s drive away, this community was established after Emperor Haile Selassie granted land to people of African descent wishing to return to Africa.
• Tiya Archaeological Site – A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring mysterious stone stelae, can be visited en route from Addis Ababa.

Sports, Nature & Outdoor Experiences

Awassa’s natural setting provides numerous opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts:

Water Activities

• Birdwatching – Lake Hawassa is a paradise for bird enthusiasts, with over 200 species including kingfishers, African fish eagles, and various herons.
• Fishing – Try your hand at fishing on Lake Hawassa, home to tilapia and catfish species.
• Swimming – While swimming in the lake isn’t recommended, both Haile Resort and Lewi Resort offer swimming pools that day visitors can access for a fee.

Land Activities

• Cycling – Rent a bicycle and circumnavigate Lake Hawassa (approximately 55 km). The western shore offers particularly beautiful scenery through villages dotted with cacti and wild olive trees.
• Hiking – The surrounding hills provide pleasant hiking opportunities with views of the lake and city.
• Wildlife Viewing – Besides hippos in the lake, you can spot monkeys and various bird species around the lakeshore.

Nearby Natural Attractions

Safety, Etiquette & Local Customs

Traveling in Awassa is generally safe, but it’s important to be aware of local customs and safety considerations:

Safety Tips

• Avoid walking alone near the lake after dark, as this area can become less safe at night.
• Keep valuables secure and be vigilant in crowded areas like markets.
• Check the current security situation before traveling, particularly if planning to visit areas outside Awassa, as regional tensions can occasionally affect travel.
• Use reputable transportation options and agree on prices before starting journeys.
• Carry a copy of your passport and keep the original in a secure location.

Cultural Etiquette

• Dress Modestly – Both men and women should wear clothing that covers the knees. Women should avoid revealing tops.
• Greetings – Handshakes are common, though they tend to be lighter than in Western countries. Using your right hand for eating, passing objects, and greetings is customary.
• Photography – Always ask permission before photographing people, especially in rural areas.
• Religious Sites – Remove shoes when entering churches and cover shoulders (women should also cover their heads).

Local Customs

Understanding these cultural practices will enhance your experience:

• Ethiopian Time – Ethiopia uses a unique time system where the day starts at dawn (6 AM is considered 12 o’clock). Be aware of this when making arrangements.
• Coffee Ceremony – If invited to a coffee ceremony, it’s considered polite to stay for at least three cups.
• Eating – Traditional Ethiopian meals are eaten with the right hand, using injera to scoop up food. Washing hands before and after meals is customary.
• Tipping – A 10% tip is appropriate in restaurants. For guides and drivers, $5-10 per day is customary depending on the service quality.

Visitor Comments About Awassa

Practical Travel Tips

Money Matters

• The Ethiopian currency is the Birr (ETB). As of 2023, 1 USD is approximately 54 ETB.
• ATMs accepting international cards can be found in Awassa, particularly Dashen Bank on Piazza Road which accepts Visa and MasterCard.
• It’s advisable to carry cash, as card payments aren’t widely accepted outside major hotels.
• Exchange money at banks or official exchange bureaus rather than on the street.

Communication

• Purchase a local SIM card from Ethio Telecom for affordable data and calls. You’ll need your passport for registration.
• Wi-Fi is available in most hotels and some cafés, though connection speeds can be variable.
• Learning a few phrases in Amharic will be appreciated, though English is spoken in tourist establishments.

Health & Essentials

• Bring mosquito repellent as mosquitoes are prevalent, especially near the lake.
• Pack a headlamp or flashlight for power outages, which are common.
• Drink only bottled or purified water.
• Bring sunscreen and a hat, as the UV rays can be strong at this elevation.
• Consider travel insurance that covers medical evacuation.

Day Trips from Awassa

• Shashamane – Visit the Rastafarian community, less than an hour away.
• Wondo Genet – Enjoy the hot springs and surrounding forest, about 45 minutes from Awassa.
• Abidjatta-Shalla National Park – Explore the lakes and spot flamingos.
• Arba Minch – Though further away, this town with its two lakes makes for an excellent next destination if heading south.

Your Ethiopian Lakeside Adventure Awaits

Awassa offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and relaxation that showcases a different side of Ethiopia than the more frequently visited northern historical circuit. Whether you’re watching hippos from a boat on Lake Hawassa, enjoying freshly caught fish at sunset, or exploring the vibrant markets, Awassa provides authentic experiences in a comfortable setting. As a gateway to southern Ethiopia, it can be either a destination in itself or the starting point for further adventures into the Omo Valley or Bale Mountains. With its pleasant climate, friendly people, and stunning lakeside setting, Awassa deserves a place on any Ethiopian itinerary.