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:
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Scenic drive through Ethiopia’s southern Rift Valley region
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Birdwatching stop at Lake Ziway, home to pelicans, storks, and other waterbirds
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Lunch stop by the picturesque Lake Hawassa
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Stay at the beautiful Aregash Lodge, a traditional Sidama-style retreat
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Experience authentic Sidama culture and cuisine
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Optional short nature walks and plantation strolls around the lodge
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Relax in a tranquil environment surrounded by forest, wildlife, and coffee farms
Day 1: Addis Ababa – Yirgalem (315 km / ~5 hours)
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After breakfast, we pick you up from your hotel and begin our journey south through the lush Rift Valley.
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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.
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We continue to Hawassa, a lakeside city known for its vibrant fish market and beautiful waterfront. Lunch will be served at a local restaurant.
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From Hawassa, it’s just about an hour to reach Aregash Lodge in Yirgalem, nestled in the forested hills amid a working coffee plantation.
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Settle in, relax, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Overnight: Aregash Lodge, Yirgalem
Day 2: Relaxation & Exploration in Yirgalem
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Today is all about relaxation and immersion in nature and culture.
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The lodge offers a tranquil setting with Sidama-style bamboo thatched tukuls, each beautifully decorated and comfortably furnished.
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Enjoy delicious organic meals, freshly prepared using ingredients from the lodge’s own gardens and farms.
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Take a short guided walk through the coffee plantation, visit nearby villages, or simply relax on your veranda and enjoy the serene forest atmosphere.
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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)
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After a peaceful morning and a hearty breakfast, enjoy your final hours in this beautiful retreat.
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After lunch, we begin our return journey to Addis Ababa, arriving by early evening.
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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
