About Us
About Visit Hawassa
Visit Hawassa envisions on making Hawassa the premier tourism center representing the diverse cultures, landscapes, and heritage Hawassa city. Our mission is to attract both domestic and international tourists by offering authentic, immersive travel experiences that highlight the city’s unique beauty. We aim to build strong local partnerships, empower communities, and promote sustainable tourism practices that benefit both visitors and residents. Through digital innovation, professional service, and cultural integrity.
“We strive to provide extraordinary experiences that are not only thrilling but also support conservation efforts, respect local cultures, and promote eco-friendly tourism.”
SOME INSIGHTS
Hawassa
The Story of Hawassa:
Hawassa was established in 1960 (1952 E.C.) under the direct order of Emperor Haile Selassie I. The Emperor’s vision was to found a premier tourist city along the southern edges of the country. The name “Hawassa” is derived from the Sidama word for “Wide Water Body,” referring to the lake that bounds the city. Before its rapid urban development, the area was known as Adare, meaning “cattle field,” where the Sidama people traditionally grazed their livestock.
Political Transformation
- In 1952 (1960) the city served merely as a home for the 404 pensioned soldiers and a temporary seat for the emperor
- In 1958 (1966), it became capital of Abella District.
- In 1960 (1968), the city was promoted as capital of Sidamo District.
- In 1985 (1997), it became the capital of SNNPRS and seat for Sidama Zone In 2012 CAPITAL of Sidama Regional state
Fast Facts:
- Elevation: 1,708 meters above sea level.
- Climate: Tropical savanna—warm days and cool, breezy nights. sub-humid “Woyna Dega” climate.
- Significance: Home to the “Zero Liquid Discharge” Industrial Park and the prestigious Hawassa University.
- Area Coverage: The City has a total area of 157.2 km2. From this 50 sq km is the land inhabited by City population. Mean annual
- precipitation: 933.4 mm. it gets rainfall twice in a year (During Belg and kiremit ).
Geographic Significance:
Situated at an altitude of 1,708 meters (5,604 feet) above sea level, Hawassa is a vital hub in the Great Rift Valley. It serves as a key transit spot for travelers moving between Addis Ababa and major southern destinations like Moyale, Arba Minch, and Jinka.
- Strategic Location: The city lies on the Trans-African Highway, an international route stretching from Cairo to Cape Town.
- Proximity: It is located 275 km from Addis Ababa and just 23 km from Shashemene.
- Climate: Hawassa experiences a sub-humid “Woyna Dega” climate, with average annual temperatures around 20.3°C and rainfall occurring twice a year during the Belg and Kiremit seasons.
Demographics & Modern Growth:
What began as a settlement of 3,000 people has transformed into a bustling metropolis with an estimated population of 525,053 as of 2024.A.
- Youthful City: Hawassa has a remarkably young population, with approximately 65% of its residents under the age of 25. Urban
- Infrastructure: The city covers 157.2 sq km and is divided into 8 sub-cities, including Tabor, Addis Ketema, Bahil Adarash, Hawella tulla, Meneharia, Misrak, Haik Dar and Mehal.
- Economic Hub: As the Capital of the Sidama Regional Government, the city has won the national “Best City Marketer” award ten consecutive times.
Community & Social Services:
Hawassa is a center for education and health in southern Ethiopia:
- Education: The city is home to the government-owned Hawassa University, along with over 100 private and public primary and secondary schools.
- Healthcare: With a health coverage rate of 92%, the city features a Referral Hospital, 4 district hospitals, and over 50 private clinics.
- Faith & Harmony: The city hosts diverse religious institutions, including the architecturally famous Saint Gabriel Church (moved to its current site in 1995 E.C.), the historical Rahima Mosque (est. 1950s), and the Kidane Mihiret Catholic Church (est. 1956 E.C.).
A Tourism & Investment Destination:
Beyond its natural beauty, Hawassa is a land of opportunity. The city offers a well-demarcated 103-hectare industrial zone and diverse investment potentials in horticulture, real estate, and hotel development. For tourists, it remains an “ideal spot for breathtaking views,” offering everything from hiking on Tabor Hill to observing the vibrant wildlife at the Amora Gedel bird sanctuary.
Strategic Investment Attributes:
Location & Market Reach: The city benefits from close proximity to Addis Ababa and other major metropolitans, providing access to a vast market sphere.
Operational Advantages: Investors have access to an abundance of raw materials and an affordable labor force.
Incentives & Policy: The city offers a conducive investment policy, including tax holidays ranging from 2 to 5 years and free land provision depending on the investment type.
Developed Infrastructure: There is a dedicated 103-hectare industrial zone with established infrastructure and a high density of financial institutions to support business operations.
Key Investment Potentials:
The following sectors are identified as high-priority areas for development within the city:
- Hospitality & Real Estate: Opportunities in hotel investment, motels, resorts, and large-scale real estate projects.
- Manufacturing & Industry: Ideal for soft drink factories, beer factories, the ink industry, and general industrial development.
- Agro-Processing: High potential for horticulture and urban farming initiatives.
- Service & Social Infrastructure: Expanding needs for private educational institutions, health institutions, and large modern market centers.
SOME INSIGHTS
Our Mission & Vision
Mission
Our mission is to offer authentic and immersive travel experiences that connect people to the heart of Hawassa. We are committed to delivering high-quality, culturally respectful, and eco-conscious tourism services by partnering with local communities, preserving indigenous traditions, and showcasing the natural wonders of our region. Through responsible tourism, we strive to foster understanding, support local livelihoods, and inspire every traveler to explore, engage, and return transformed.
Vision
Visit Hawassa envisions becoming the leading gateway to the rich cultural heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and diverse communities. We aim to promote sustainable, inclusive, and transformative tourism that celebrates the region’s identity while creating lasting value for both visitors and local communities.
Memorable Places
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and unique cultural heritage that this city has to offer. With its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant traditions, Hawassa boasts a range of unforgettable destinations that leave a lasting impression on all who visit.
Conference Hub
Hawassa has evolved into a premier destination for MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) by blending professional infrastructure with its natural "resort" appeal.
OUR TEAM
Who We Are
Our Partners
