Bishoftu & Crater Lakes (Day Trip)

ITINERARY

Just 45 km southeast of Addis Ababa, the beautiful town of Bishoftu offers a refreshing escape from the capital. Nestled on the fertile slopes of the Rift Valley escarpment and surrounded by crater lakes formed in ancient volcanic calderas, Bishoftu is a peaceful destination full of natural charm, rural life, and cultural depth. A popular getaway for city residents, Bishoftu is known not only for its lakes and resorts, but also for its flower farming, local culinary traditions, and warm rural hospitality — making it the perfect place for an enriching and relaxing day trip. Itinerary Highlights 1 – Hotel Pick-Up in Addis Ababa Your private guide and driver will pick you up from your hotel to begin the scenic 1-hour drive to Bishoftu. 2 – Visit to a Local Family Home Start your experience with a warm welcome in a local household, where you'll: * Discover the traditional baking process of injera, Ethiopia’s staple flatbread * Learn about the ingredients, techniques, and tools used (including the mitad) * Share a moment of cultural exchange with the host family 3 – Garden Visit & Areki Tasting Next, visit a charming local garden, often part of a small farmstead. * Learn about the distillation process of areki (a strong, homemade spirit similar to moonshine) * Taste a small glass if you wish, and hear stories about how areki is used in local celebrations and rituals * Enjoy the relaxing rural setting, surrounded by herbs, fruit trees, and flowers 4 – Tour of Bishoftu's Crater Lakes Visit four of Bishoftu’s most picturesque crater lakes: * Lake Hora – great for birdwatching and views from above * Lake Bishoftu – calm and quiet, a sacred lake for locals * Lake Babogaya – vibrant with activity, ideal for boat rides and lakeside lounging * Lake Kuriftu – known for its boutique resort and clear water Take a gentle walk along the shores and admire the volcanic backdrops. 5 – Lunch at a Lakeside Resort Enjoy a relaxed lunch at a resort at Kuriftu or Leisak Resort. Optional glass of wine, juice, or traditional Ethiopian coffee 6 – Optional Boat Ride Take a boat trip on Lake Babogaya or Lake Kuriftu, with scenic views and birdwatching opportunities. 7 – Return to Addis Ababa via the Flower Farming Zone On your way back, pass through Ethiopia’s flower farms and industrial zone, gaining insight into the region’s agricultural and economic role.