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:
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Visit the Melka Kunture prehistoric site, home to ancient stone tools and fossils
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Explore Adadi Maryam, a 12th-century rock-hewn church linked to Lalibela’s legacy
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Discover the UNESCO-listed Tiya Stelae, mysterious ancient burial markers
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Scenic drive through the lush southern countryside and the Great Rift Valley
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Relax by the tranquil waters of Lake Langano, a safe and swimmable lake
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Optional visit to Lake Shalla–Abiata National Park with volcanic lakes and birdlife
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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)
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After breakfast, we pick you up from your hotel and head south through fertile highlands and farmlands.
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Our first stop is Melka Kunture, one of Ethiopia’s most important prehistoric sites, where early human tools and fossils are on display.
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Continue to Adadi Maryam, a 12th-century rock-hewn church carved out of solid volcanic rock, still in use today.
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Enjoy a scenic picnic lunch in the area, with views of the countryside.
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Drive onward to the Tiya Stelae Field, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where over 40 intricately carved standing stones mark ancient burial sites.
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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)
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Spend the morning at leisure, relaxing by the lake. Lake Langano is one of Ethiopia’s few lakes safe for swimming.
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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.
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After lunch at the lodge, begin your return journey to Addis Ababa.
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En route, stop briefly at Lake Ziway, known for its rich birdlife and scenic views.
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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
