panorama view of Omo Valley, Omorati Etiopia, Africa nature and wilderness

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Southern Ethiopia

Southern Ethiopia is a canvas ripped in two. Its landscape is being torn apart by the Great Rift Valley, leaving a trail of lakes where you can go see crocodiles, hippos and birds – or just drink in the scenery from your hotel.

Attractions

Must-see attractions

  • Kibish

    Kibish

    Southern Ethiopia

    The main settlement in this area is the colourful village of Kibish. Set in a bowl in the forested hills, it is a fascinating place populated by the…

  • Bale Mountains National Park

    Bale Mountains National Park

    Southern Ethiopia

    More than any other park in Ethiopia, this national park is known for its wildlife, but it’s a very beautiful place, too. As you approach from Dodola,…

  • Lake Awasa

    Lake Awasa

    Southern Ethiopia

    With its mountainous backdrop, Lake Awasa is a lovely sight. You could easily spend a few pleasant hours strolling the lakeshore trail at the end of town,…

  • Fish Market

    Fish Market

    Southern Ethiopia

    Lake Awasa’s fishermen head out in their little wooden boats in the afternoon and return the next morning laden with tilapia and catfish. The men are…

  • Omo National Park

    Omo National Park

    Southern Ethiopia

    Omo National Park has long been one of the most remote parks in Ethiopia and travelling here can be incredibly tough – but never less than fascinating…

  • Plains zebra (Equus burchellii), Nechisar National Park.

    Nechisar Plain

    Southern Ethiopia

    The main wildlife-watching circuit crosses the Bridge of God to the park’s namesake savannah, but the road is so atrocious that many tour companies prefer…

  • Sof Omar Cave

    Sof Omar Cave

    Southern Ethiopia

    Around 100km east of Robe, the fast-flowing Web River runs through a deep gorge and then cuts straight through a limestone hill. Though underground for…

  • Abiata-Shala Lakes National Park

    Abiata-Shala Lakes National Park

    Southern Ethiopia

    West of Lake Langano lie the twin lakes of Abiata and Shala, which form part of the national park. Identical twins these lakes are not: Shala’s 410-sq-km…

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