Day Trip From Addis Ababa To Mount Zuqualla

Addis Ababa , Ethiopia

Day Trip From Addis Ababa To Mount Zuqualla

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About this experience

Drive south from Addis to Mount Zuqualla to visit the Zuqualla Abo Monastery. Situated at the top of the mountain, the Crater Lake which is dormant is surrounded by beautiful woods and considered to be holy, then to crater lakes of Debre Zeit. There you will enjoy the lovely crater lakes of Hora, Bisheftu and other, these are best place for flora and fauna, birds’ life and spectacular scenery as you make walk around crater lakes, a number of lodge and resorts are available on the lakes shore.

Available options

Day Trip From Addis Ababa To Mount Zuqualla

Pickup included

What's included

Lunch

Blue Badge Guide

Bottled water

Air-conditioned vehicle

Coffee and/or Tea

Entrance fee

Goverment taxes

Detailed itinerary

Early in the morning we drive south from Addis Ababa to Debre Zeit and then to the feet of the extinct volcano Mount Zuqualla. To visit the Zuqualla Monastery, founded in the 4th century and situated on the top of the mountain, we have to hike for about 4 hours and gain a height difference of about 900 m. We advise being in good physical condition to do this hike. Situated at the top of the mountain at almost 3,000 m sea level, there is also a lake surrounded by a beautiful forest which is considered to be holy. Here we can enjoy the wildlife, such as the Colobus monkeys and the endemic Menelik’s bushbuck, as well as birds, including the endemic Ethiopian oriole and Abyssinian woodpecker.

Lake Bishoftu, which lies immediately south of the town centre, is the closest to the rest of the town.

The lake is accessible via a steep cattle path, and is often frequented by tourists and locals alike, particularly during the warm summer months, where they have been known to swim within its water.
Lying one kilometre to the north of Bishoftu, Hora lake is the largest of the five, and is one of the most travelled with boats often seen upon the lake.

For this reason, it is not advisable to swim far into its depths, however there are a number of jetties along its shore with boats and captains for hire.

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

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1★

Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Addis Ababa

Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia, is a vibrant and historically rich city nestled in the highlands of the Horn of Africa. Known as the political, cultural, and economic heart of the country, it offers a unique blend of modern amenities and traditional Ethiopian culture.

Top Attractions

Entoto Mountain

A scenic mountain offering panoramic views of Addis Ababa and the surrounding highlands. It's a great spot for hiking and exploring the natural beauty of the region.

Nature Half day to full day Free (some attractions may have entry fees)

Addis Ababa Museum

A museum showcasing the history and cultural heritage of Ethiopia, including artifacts from the ancient kingdom of Aksum and the medieval Solomonic dynasty.

Historical 1-2 hours Moderate (around 100 ETB or 3 USD)

Mercato

One of the largest open-air markets in Africa, offering a vast array of goods, from spices and textiles to handmade crafts and livestock.

Market Half day Free to enter, prices vary for purchases

St. George's Cathedral

A historic cathedral built in the 19th century, known for its beautiful stained-glass windows and intricate architecture.

Religious 30 minutes to 1 hour Free (donations welcome)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Doro Wat

A spicy chicken stew made with berbere spice, onions, and hard-boiled eggs.

Main Dish Contains meat and spices

Injera

A sourdough flatbread made from teff flour, used as both a utensil and a base for other dishes.

Staple Vegan

Tibs

Sautéed cubes of meat, often served with vegetables and spices.

Main Dish Contains meat and spices

Shiro

A chickpea or lentil-based stew, often spiced with berbere or mitmita.

Stew Vegetarian and vegan options available

Popular Activities

Hiking in Entoto Mountain Boating in Lake Bishoftu Coffee ceremony Spa and wellness treatments Visiting museums and historical sites Attending traditional music and dance performances N/A Participating in a traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony

Best Time to Visit

October to June

This period offers the best weather for sightseeing and outdoor activities, with clear skies and pleasant temperatures.

12°C to 26°C (54°F to 79°F) 54°F to 79°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Amharic
Widely spoken: English, Oromo
English: Moderately spoken in urban areas, limited in rural areas

Currency

Ethiopian Birr (ETB)

Time Zone

GMT+3

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Addis Ababa is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur. Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and at night.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and at night
• Use reputable tour operators and guides
• Avoid walking alone at night in less crowded areas

Getting there

By air

Addis Ababa Bole International Airport • 8 km (5 miles) from city center

By bus

Addis Ababa Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Affordable but can be crowded. Tickets are purchased on board.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Ride

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Piazza District Bole District Mercato District

Day trips

Debre Berhan

130 km (80 miles) from Addis Ababa • Full day

A historic town known for its beautiful church and traditional Ethiopian architecture.

Lake Bishoftu

40 km (25 miles) from Addis Ababa • Half day to full day

A series of volcanic lakes known for their scenic beauty and birdlife.

Festivals

Timket (Epiphany) • January 19 Meskel (Finding of the True Cross) • September 27

Pro tips

Learn a few basic phrases in Amharic to enhance your experience and connect with locals
Hire a local guide for a more authentic and insightful experience, especially when visiting historical and cultural sites
Try traditional Ethiopian coffee and participate in a coffee ceremony for a unique cultural experience
Bargain politely when shopping in markets, as it is a common practice
Be patient and flexible, as punctuality and schedules can be more relaxed in Ethiopia