Ethiopian Coffee Tours to Yirgalem, Hawassa – Sidama – 3 days
Tour Overview:
Escape the city and unwind in the lush, coffee-rich highlands of southern Ethiopia with this 3-day tour to Yirgalem. Stay at the serene Aregash Lodge, a traditional Sidama-style eco-lodge nestled within a working coffee plantation. Along the way, enjoy lakeside birdwatching at Lake Ziway, lunch by beautiful Lake Hawassa, and immerse yourself in the culture, nature, and hospitality of the Sidama region. A perfect short getaway for those seeking peace, nature, and local charm.
Tour Highlights:
Scenic drive through Ethiopia’s southern Rift Valley region
Birdwatching stop at Lake Ziway, home to pelicans, storks, and other waterbirds
Lunch stop by the picturesque Lake Hawassa
Stay at the beautiful Aregash Lodge, a traditional Sidama-style retreat
Experience authentic Sidama culture and cuisine
Optional short nature walks and plantation strolls around the lodge
Relax in a tranquil environment surrounded by forest, wildlife, and coffee farms
Day 1: Addis Ababa – Yirgalem (315 km / ~5 hours)
After breakfast, we pick you up from your hotel and begin our journey south through the lush Rift Valley.
Our first stop is Lake Ziway, where we pause to admire the birdlife along its shores. This is a great spot for photography and a short break.
We continue to Hawassa, a lakeside city known for its vibrant fish market and beautiful waterfront. Lunch will be served at a local restaurant.
From Hawassa, it’s just about an hour to reach Aregash Lodge in Yirgalem, nestled in the forested hills amid a working coffee plantation.
Settle in, relax, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Overnight: Aregash Lodge, Yirgalem
Day 2: Relaxation & Exploration in Yirgalem
Today is all about relaxation and immersion in nature and culture.
The lodge offers a tranquil setting with Sidama-style bamboo thatched tukuls, each beautifully decorated and comfortably furnished.
Enjoy delicious organic meals, freshly prepared using ingredients from the lodge’s own gardens and farms.
Take a short guided walk through the coffee plantation, visit nearby villages, or simply relax on your veranda and enjoy the serene forest atmosphere.
You may encounter local wildlife such as monkeys and a variety of birds.
Overnight: Aregash Lodge, Yirgalem
Day 3: Yirgalem – Addis Ababa (315 km / ~5 hours)
After a peaceful morning and a hearty breakfast, enjoy your final hours in this beautiful retreat.
After lunch, we begin our return journey to Addis Ababa, arriving by early evening.
Drop-off at your hotel or the airport, depending on your plans.
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
