Awasa - Discovering Ethiopia

Travelling to Awasa

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Awasa, a pretty good destination in Ethiopia (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Awasa and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Awasa, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Ethiopia, here's everything to know about Awasa for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Awasa

Awasa is a city located in the southern part of Ethiopia, near the shores of Lake Awasa. It is the capital of the Southern Nations, Nationalities, and People's Region (SNNPR). Awasa has a population of around 300,000 people and is known for its tropical climate, scenic landscape, and diverse cultural heritage. The city is a popular tourist destination, offering visitors opportunities to explore nearby national parks, wildlife reserves, and coffee plantations. The local economy is driven by agriculture, fishing, and tourism.

What to visit in Awasa

Sure, here are some of the top tourist attractions in Awasa, along with a brief description of each: 1. Lake Awasa: This beautiful lake is the largest lake in the city of Awasa, and is a popular spot for boat rides. There are also several restaurants and cafes along the shore where visitors can enjoy a meal while taking in the views of the lake.
2. Hawassa Nature Park: This park is located near Lake Awasa and offers visitors the chance to see a variety of animals, including zebras, antelopes, and baboons. There are also several hiking trails throughout the park, as well as a small museum that showcases the local culture and history.
3. Awasa Fish Market: The fish market is a must-visit spot for seafood lovers, as it offers a wide variety of fresh fish and seafood caught from Lake Awasa. Visitors can watch as fishermen bring in their daily catch, and can even purchase fish to take home and cook themselves.
4. Tabor Mountains: These mountains are located on the outskirts of Awasa and offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can hike to the top of the mountains to see the city from above, or simply enjoy a leisurely stroll through the foothills.
5. Awasa Golf Course: The golf course is a popular spot for both locals and tourists, and offers beautiful views of the nearby mountains. There is also a clubhouse on site where visitors can enjoy a meal or drink after a round of golf.
Overall, Awasa has a lot to offer visitors looking for natural beauty, cultural experiences, and outdoor activities.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Ethiopia, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Awasa.

When to go on holiday to Awasa

The best time to visit Awasa (Ethiopia) is during the dry season, which lasts from October through February. During this time there is less rainfall and the weather is generally drier and more comfortable for traveling. The temperature is usually mild during the daytime, making it the perfect time for outdoor activities. However, if you are interested in seeing the lush green landscapes, it is recommended to visit during the rainy season, which lasts from June until September.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Awasa

To get to Awasa (Ethiopia), you can take a flight to the Awassa airport, which is also called Hawassa airport. Ethiopian Airlines has direct flights from Addis Ababa to Awassa. Alternatively, you can take a bus from Addis Ababa to Awasa, which takes approximately 5-6 hours. Several bus companies operate on this route, including Selam Bus, Sky Bus, and Abyssinia Bus. You can also take a taxi or rental car from Addis Ababa to Awasa if you prefer a private transfer.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Awasa, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Awasa

Sure, here are some typical foods from Awasa in Ethiopia: 1. Injera - A sourdough flatbread made from teff flour that is a staple food in Ethiopia and is typically eaten with stews and sauces.
2. Tibs - Small pieces of meat (usually beef or lamb) sautèed with vegetables such as onions, tomatoes, and peppers.
3. Kitfo - Raw minced beef seasoned with spices, usually served with injera.
4. Doro Wat - A spicy chicken stew made with red pepper paste, onions, and spices.
5. Shiro - A stew made from ground chickpeas or lentils with spices like garlic, ginger, and turmeric.
6. Foul - Fava beans served with a spicy tomato sauce, fresh herbs, and a squeeze of lemon.
7. Gomen - A dish made from collard greens or kale, cooked with onions, garlic, and spices like turmeric and paprika.
8. Kik Alicha - A dish made with yellow split peas, cooked with onions, ginger, and garlic.
9. Dulet - A mixture of minced meat, tripe, liver, and other organs of a cow seasoned with spices like onion, garlic, ginger, and turmeric.
10. Tella - A traditional Ethiopian beer made from teff, barley, and hops.
You can find general info about typical foods in Ethiopia here.

Is Awasa an expensive destination for tourists?

Compared to many other tourist destinations around the world, Awasa in Ethiopia is relatively affordable. However, the cost of a trip to Awasa will depend on various factors such as the time of the year you plan to travel, the activities you wish to do and the accommodation you choose. In general, the cost of food, transportation and accommodation in Awasa is lower than in many other countries. You can find budget-friendly accommodations starting from around $15 per night, while mid-range hotels can cost anywhere between $30-$70 per night. The cost of food will depend on what and where you eat. Street food and local restaurants offer cheap options, while higher-end restaurants may charge more. Travel costs like bus or taxi fares are also inexpensive, especially if you negotiate with the driver.
In conclusion, Awasa can be considered an affordable destination for tourists. However, it is always important to budget accordingly and plan ahead to ensure you make the most of your trip while staying within your financial means.

Where to find accomodation in Awasa

The best areas to find accommodation in Awasa, Ethiopia are: 1. Lake View area: This area provides stunning views of Lake Awasa and a wide range of top-rated hotels and resorts.
2. City Center area: This area is located in the heart of Awasa and offers a variety of budget-friendly and luxury hotels, restaurants, and other attractions.
3. Bishangari area: This area is known for its natural beauty and eco-tourism activities and provides a beautiful setting for camping, hiking, and other outdoor adventures.
4. Hawassa Industrial Park area: This area is ideal for business travelers as it is nearby the industrial park and offers a range of accommodation options such as budget-friendly guesthouses, apartments and hotels.
You can check hotel prices at Awasa here:
Booking.com

Is Awasa a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Awasa is generally considered a safe place for tourists. However, as with any travel destination, it is always important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings. It is recommended to avoid walking alone at night and to be mindful of your valuables. It's also a good idea to familiarize yourself with local customs and cultural practices to avoid any misunderstandings or unintentional disrespect. Overall, if you take necessary safety precautions and use common sense, you should have a pleasant and safe trip to Awasa.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Ethiopia here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Awasa.

What type of travelers will enjoy Awasa the most?

Awasa, Ethiopia has something to offer for all types of travelers. It's a great place for couples as it's a romantic city with beautiful scenery and plenty of outdoor activities to do together. For young people looking for fun, Awasa has a great nightlife scene with live music, bars, and discos that will keep them entertained. Families will enjoy visiting the Awasa Aquarium, where they can see a variety of fish species. Additionally, Awasa has plenty of parks and green spaces that provide a safe and fun environment for families with children. Overall, Awasa is a great destination that offers something for everyone.

How to get around Awasa

The most common transportation options for moving around Awasa in Ethiopia are taxis, minibuses, and tuk-tuks (known locally as "bajaj"). Taxis are generally considered the most convenient and comfortable option, while minibuses are cheaper but can be crowded and less reliable. Tuk-tuks are a good choice for short distances and are particularly useful for navigating crowded areas with heavy traffic. Walking is also a great way to get around and take in the sights of the city.

What to see around Awasa

Certainly! Here are some nice places you can visit in a day trip from Awasa: 1. Hawassa Fish Market: This is a great place to visit if you want to try some fresh seafood, and is only a short distance from Awasa.
2. Wondo Genet Hot Springs: The hot springs are located around 25km from Awasa, and offer a relaxing day trip to enjoy the beautiful natural scenery.
3. Senkele Wildlife Sanctuary: This is a great place to observe and learn about Ethiopia's wildlife. The sanctuary is located around 40km away from Awasa.
4. Yirgalem Forest: This forest is located around 50km away from Awasa and offers a peaceful day trip to enjoy the fresh air and stunning scenery.
5. Lake Ziway: This lake is about 80km away from Awasa, but totally worth the trip. Take a boat ride and enjoy the beautiful scenery and bird watching.
I hope this helps!
For every travel information about Ethiopia you can click here.

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