Destinations
🌍 Popular Destinations in Hawassa
Lake Hawassa: The Heart of the Rift Valley
Lake Hawassa is a stunning freshwater oasis that defines the city’s soul. Whether you are seeking adventure or a quiet sunset, the lake offers an unforgettable escape. Lies on the western part at 5,527 feet above sea level having 38 miles width, 9.79 miles length and 69 feet depth
The Gentle Giants: Take a boat trip to the far shores to encounter Hawassa’s famous Hippo families. Seeing these massive creatures surfacing amidst the reeds is the lake’s most iconic wildlife experience.
The Fresh Catch: The lake is the lifeblood of the city’s food scene. Visit Amora Gedel at sunrise to see fishermen bringing in fresh Nile Tilapia, a local delicacy you must try grilled or in a spicy soup right by the water.
Life on the Water: Hire a boat for a Sunset Cruise. As you glide across the calm water, you’ll be surrounded by Great White Pelicans and African Fish Eagles, with the mountains reflecting a perfect golden hue.
Amora Gedel: The Vibrant Lakeside Hub
Amora Gedel is the most authentic way to experience Hawassa’s local rhythm. Part bustling fish market and part wildlife sanctuary, it is the city’s most famous lakeside landmark.
The Morning Catch: Watch the colorful traditional boats arrive at dawn with fresh Nile Tilapia and Catfish. For the ultimate local experience, enjoy “Asa Gulash” (fish soup) or fried tilapia prepared right on the shore.
A Birder’s Paradise: The market earns its name from the sheer volume of birds that gather here. Get up close with massive Marabou Storks, Great White Pelicans, and African Fish Eagles waiting for their share of the daily catch.
The Gateway: Beyond the market, the area features scenic walking paths and serves as the main departure point for boat trips to see the hippos across the lake.
Pro-Tip: Visit between 7:00 AM and 9:00 AM to see the market at its most energetic and the wildlife at its most active.
Mount Tabor: The City’s Best View
Rising as a majestic sentinel over the city, Mount Tabor (or Tabor Hill) is the ultimate vantage point for any visitor. Located On the south western end of the city. A short, rewarding hike to the summit offers a breathtaking 360-degree panoramic view of Hawassa’s organized city grid and the vast, shimmering lake beyond.
The Hike: An accessible trek suitable for all fitness levels. It’s the perfect way to stretch your legs and get away from the city bustle.
Golden Hour: It is the premier spot for photographers and sunset lovers. Watch the sky transform into shades of gold and violet as the sun dips below the Rift Valley horizon.
A Local Favorite: Join the locals for a hilltop picnic or a quiet moment of reflection while enjoying the cool, refreshing breeze from the summit.
Travel Tip: Wear sturdy walking shoes and bring your camera—you won’t want to miss the view of Lake Hawassa from the top!
Visit St. Gabriel Church
is a spiritual and architectural landmark located in the heart of the city. Known for its massive, iconic dome and serene atmosphere, it serves as a central point for both the local community and visitors seeking a moment of reflection.
Architectural Grandeur: The church is famous for its grand dome and intricate religious art, making it one of the most photographed religious sites in the Rift Valley.
Central Location: It is easily accessible within the city, often serving as a peaceful sanctuary just a short distance from the lively lakeside areas.
Spiritual Hub: As a key center for the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church in the region, it is especially vibrant during religious holidays and Sunday services.
Hawassa: The City of Eternal Love
Hawassa is more than just a destination; it’s a feeling. Nestled in the Great Rift Valley, it is Ethiopia’s most organized and inviting city, where wide, palm-lined avenues meet a stunning lakeside horizon.
A Modern Retreat: Known for its relaxed “resort” atmosphere, Hawassa is a city that moves at its own peaceful pace. It’s a place where modern infrastructure, like the world-class Hawassa University and the eco-friendly Industrial Park, blends seamlessly with the natural beauty of the Sidama region.
Cultural Crossroads: As the capital of the Sidama Region, the city is a vibrant cultural hub. From the traditional celebrations of Fichee-Chambalaalla to its legendary late-night street food scene, Hawassa offers a warm, welcoming energy that makes every visitor feel at home.
The Perfect Balance: Whether you are walking along the Sunset Promenade, exploring the bustling local markets, or enjoying a world-class coffee in a lakeside lounge, the city perfectly balances urban convenience with an outdoor, tropical lifestyle.
Why we love it: It’s the one city in Ethiopia where you can spend your morning with hippos and your evening in a high-end luxury lounge, all within the same few kilometers.
Natural Reserve (Sanctuary)
- Established in the early 1960s on an area of 75,067 sq. metes, located on the right side of the citys Northern gate way or at the northern shore of lake Hawassa
- The area is locally known as Tikur Wuha (Black water)
- The reserve is a home for a variety of natural trees, plant and animal species.
- Recently, the City Administration has carried out extensive renovations on the area.
Gudumale (Amora Gedel)
Also known as ‘Amora Gedel’, a public game reserve.
- The park was established in the early 1960s by Princess Tenagne Work Hailesilassie.
- It covers 261,910 m2 of area.
- Situated on the main fishing site of Lake Hawassa
- The park is a sanctuary for numerous indigenous plant and animal species. Its exotic view is one of Hawassa city’s symbols that has been attracting several nature admirers to spend their leisure time and hold festivals.
The traditional Sidama people’s New Year-Chamballalla celebration also takes place here.
Sidama Cultural Hall (Bahil Adarash)
Burkita Hot spring
- Located 12 km away to the south east of the city centre
- Locale people believe and use it as a Holy water that has a healing power. And partly it serves as a casual bath
Wondogenet Hot spring
- 27 kilometers away from Hawassa
- At the foot of the glamorous forest mountain Wondogent, the hot spring was founded in 1962 E.C by Princess Tenagne Work Hailesilassie as a winter retreat.
- Later, the place is converted into a resort Hotel that provides standard bedrooms, a swimming pool, and hot bath service.
- Its fresh breeze, gushing water, and stunning view drive one into the tranquility of mind.
Major Historical and Cultural Heritages
- Loke Palace( situated 6 k.m from Hawassa)
- Staeles
- Tukuls
- Sidama Cultural Hall –
- The first car (Automobile)
- Simuda Statue
- Meseqel Square
- A cannon surrendered by Ethiopians during Ethio-Italian War of 1936-41 (Haranfama)
- Timktete Bahir ( where Orthodox Christians conducted the Epiphany)
- The cornerstone that marked the establishment of the city.
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