History & Langano, Shalla-Abiata, Ziway Lake Tours – 2 Days
Tour Overview:
Embark on a scenic 2-day journey through Ethiopia’s southern cultural corridor to the serene shores of Lake Langano. This tour blends prehistoric heritage, spiritual history, and natural beauty — with stops at the Melka Kunture archaeological site, the rock-hewn church of Adadi Maryam, the mysterious Tiya stelae field (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), and the picturesque Rift Valley lakes. It’s a perfect short escape from Addis Ababa for travelers who appreciate history, landscapes, and a relaxing lakeside atmosphere.
Tour Highlights:
Visit the Melka Kunture prehistoric site, home to ancient stone tools and fossils
Explore Adadi Maryam, a 12th-century rock-hewn church linked to Lalibela’s legacy
Discover the UNESCO-listed Tiya Stelae, mysterious ancient burial markers
Scenic drive through the lush southern countryside and the Great Rift Valley
Relax by the tranquil waters of Lake Langano, a safe and swimmable lake
Optional visit to Lake Shalla–Abiata National Park with volcanic lakes and birdlife
Stop at Lake Ziway, known for its abundance of water birds and hippo sightings
Tour Highlights:
Visit the Melka Kunture prehistoric site, home to ancient stone tools and fossils
Explore Adadi Maryam, a 12th-century rock-hewn church linked to Lalibela’s legacy
Discover the UNESCO-listed Tiya Stelae, mysterious ancient burial markers
Scenic drive through the lush southern countryside and the Great Rift Valley
Relax by the tranquil waters of Lake Langano, a safe and swimmable lake
Optional visit to Lake Shalla–Abiata National Park with volcanic lakes and birdlife
Stop at Lake Ziway, known for its abundance of water birds and hippo sightings
Day 1: Addis Ababa – Butajira – Tiya – Lake Langano (222 km / ~4 hours)
After breakfast, we pick you up from your hotel and head south through fertile highlands and farmlands.
Our first stop is Melka Kunture, one of Ethiopia’s most important prehistoric sites, where early human tools and fossils are on display.
Continue to Adadi Maryam, a 12th-century rock-hewn church carved out of solid volcanic rock, still in use today.
Enjoy a scenic picnic lunch in the area, with views of the countryside.
Drive onward to the Tiya Stelae Field, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where over 40 intricately carved standing stones mark ancient burial sites.
In the afternoon, we continue our drive (approx. 2.5 hours) to Lake Langano, arriving before sunset. Settle in and enjoy the peaceful lakeside surroundings.
Overnight: Lakeside resort or lodge at Langano
Day 2: Lake Langano – Ziway – Addis Ababa (197 km / ~3 hours)
Spend the morning at leisure, relaxing by the lake. Lake Langano is one of Ethiopia’s few lakes safe for swimming.
Optionally, take a short excursion to nearby Lake Shalla–Abiata National Park, home to deep crater lakes, hot springs, and large flocks of flamingos and pelicans.
After lunch at the lodge, begin your return journey to Addis Ababa.
En route, stop briefly at Lake Ziway, known for its rich birdlife and scenic views.
Arrive in Addis Ababa in the late afternoon and drop off at your hotel.
Includes:
- Airport transfers and road transport by private car
- Full board, including mineral water.
- Full camping equipment including tents, mattresses and sleeping bags for camping and trekking.
- Recommended to bring your own sleeping bag.
- Fees for entrances, local guides, compulsory scouts/ security personnel for activities mentioned in the itinerary.
- All government taxes for the services included in the tour price
Excludes:
- Additional food and drinks
- Personal expenses
- Souvenirs
