Addis Ababa – Adadi Maryam - Tiya World Heritage Site – Lake Ziway – Awassa

Tiya World Heritage Site - Embark on a guided tour to explore the remarkable stone grave markers at Tiya. The Steles of Tiya is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Ethiopia. Visitors can admire the beautifully carved stone grave markers, erected between the 12th and 14th centuries AD, in tribute to significant local heroes (warriors).

Butajira - Pause at several viewpoints to enjoy the stunning scenery of the Ethiopian section of the Great East African Rift Valley. Additionally, visit a village of the Silte people for an enriching cultural experience.

Lake Ziway - Observe Ethiopian Lowland water birds by strolling along the shores of the Rift Valley Lake of Ziway. With some luck, spot families of hippos and a variety of birds such as Great white pelicans, Marabou Storks, African Fish Eagles, Sacred Ibis, and Hammer Kops.

Conclude by driving 115 km south to the Rift Valley Lake of Awassa. If the weather permits, relish the breathtaking sunset over the lake.

Melka Kunture - Explore the Melka Kunture archaeological site to delve into humanity’s evolutionary history. Situated by the Awash River, visit the Melka Kunture Museum to journey back 1.8 million years. Discover stone tools from Homo erectus, see fossilized footprints, and explore an open-air butchery site dating back 800,000 years.

Awassa Lake – Abidjatta Shalla Lakes National Park – Lake Ziway – Addis Ababa

Bishoftu - Visit one of the crater lakes of Bishoftu (Debre Ziet), renowned for its scenic beauty. Additionally, experience the culture of the Oromo people by participating in a traditional Ethiopian Coffee Ceremony with the locals.

• Professional English-speaking tour guide
• Complimentary bottled water
• Authentic local family visits
• Traditional Ethiopian Coffee Ceremony experience
• Expert onsite tour guides and park scouts
• No additional fuel surcharges
• Insured private vehicle with AC and seat belts

• Entrance (admission) fees to places of visits
• Accommodations
• Meals
• And, any expense which are not mentioned in the “Included” list above

Experience the freedom to pause at various viewpoints and take in the breathtaking scenery of the Ethiopian section of the Great East African Rift Valley. Travel in comfort with an air-conditioned Toyota Minivan and gain insights from a professional, experienced English-speaking tour guide about the Ethiopian birdlife at the Rift Valley Lake of Ziway.

Engage with local families and participate in a traditional Ethiopian Coffee Ceremony. Observe the birdlife around the lakes and the wildlife at Abiyatta Shalla Lakes National Park.

This tour also includes visits to the unique and still functioning rock-carved church of Adadi Mariam, the Tiya Steles (a cemetery from the 12th – 14th Century AD and a UNESCO World Heritage Site), and a walk by Lake Ziway to spot various lowland water birds. The tour covers a total of 580 km over two days.

On Thursdays or Sundays, immerse yourself in local culture at the vibrant weekly cultural market in Adadi town.

• June to Mid September is the rainy season where the tour runs. Please be prepared accordingly.
• When visiting the rock church of Adadi Mariam, women are expected to be fully dressed and cover hairs.
• We can help visitors book accommodations, if needed. Please contact us!

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.