Nearby activities and tours

Day trips in the local vicinity are highly encouraged. A tour to the adjacent Lake Shalla and Abjiata National Park provides visitors with a glance of Ethiopian flora and fauna. Ostriches, bright pink flamingos, warthogs, various gazelles, and an incredible number of bird species can be appreciated. The landscape is also very spectacular; a stop at the natural hot springs on the shores of Lake Shalla will complete your tour.

40kms up North towards Addis is Lake Zwai, the northern most lake in the Rift Valley. This lake has its own distinct beauty and is inhabited by hippos. For those of you who feel adventurous, short boat rides in wooden boats are being offered by the locals.

Further South from Langano you will notice a change in climate and vegetation. The road takes you up hill towards the town of Arsi Negelle, 30kms from Langano. Before reaching take a break to admire the lovely view of the three lakes; Shalla, Abjiata and Langano. At Arsi Negelle a visit to the local market is an interesting and picturesque experience where the Oromo culture is exhibited in full. Market days are on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.

Another 20km down South lies the large town of Shashamane, the capital of the region which is internationally famous for being the promised land of Rastafarians. A large community of Rastafarians has settled there since Emperor Haile Selassie granted them land in 1948. It is possible to visit the Rastafarian museum and shops, and inquiring about their events schedule. Reggae concerts are often organized giving an insight on Jamaican music and culture. Pay a visit to Shashamane’s vast local market which will plunge you into a kaleidoscope of local produce. It is always recommended to have a trusted local guide to show you around. For more information you can visit the Jamaican Rastafarian Development Community website.

Close to Shashamane is Wondo Gennet, a place of natural beauty with dense forest and natural hot springs. Wondo Gennet is home to Colobus monkeys; enjoy the sound of their chuckles and their unique beauty while you are there.

Further South is Awassa, a rapidly expanding town approximately 70km from Langano. Awassa lake is the smallest of the Rift Valley lakes. Like Zwai, it is populated with hippos and locally made boats can tour you around the lake. Along the shores of the lake you may also find Colobus monkeys and a variety of bird species.

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