Visit Hawassa, Ethiopia: Discover the Best Things to Do
Hawassa or Awassa lies on the eastern shore of the beautiful Lake Hawassa in southern Ethiopia. It was formerly the capital of the Southern Nations, Nationalities, and Peoples’ Region, but now it has become the capital city of the newly established Sidama Regional State. Hawassa is a famed resort town in Ethiopia, attracting many visitors with its relaxing atmosphere, beautiful lake scenery, fresh fish cuisine, pleasant weather, and rich Sidama coffee culture. Families return to this peaceful lakeside city from time to time to spend weekends and holidays.
Hawassa is renowned by many locals as a resort city where friends, couples, and families like to relax for a few days. The lake is the main attraction that draws many people to the city. The tree-lined streets of Hawassa, public parks with plenty of birds and monkeys, and the calm lakeside atmosphere make it an ideal place to spend enjoyable time.
In the early mornings, many fishermen come on their boats to the famous Hawassa Fish Market to sell their catches of Tilapia, Nile Perch, and African Catfish on the shore of the lake. Many locals love to treat themselves to fresh fish, and it is not surprising to see people eating raw fish meat with traditional spices. In the fish market, men cut and prepare the fish for sale, while nearby small restaurants and shack-like places cook and serve fresh fish dishes for visitors.
Boat trips on Lake Hawassa are among the most enjoyable activities in the city. Visitors can enjoy scenic lake views, sunset views, hippos near the shoreline, and excellent birdwatching opportunities. Fishing on Lake Hawassa is also a very important economic activity. For many people, fish is an affordable source of protein, while the fishing industry creates employment and income directly and indirectly. Fresh fish from the lake is considered a delicacy for many visitors.
Things to Do in Hawassa
Hawassa offers many attractions and activities for visitors interested in nature, culture, and relaxation.
- Lake Hawassa boat trips
- Hippos and birdwatching
- Hawassa Fish Market
- Amora Gedel Park
- St. Gabriel Church
- Sidama coffee experiences
- Sunset views over Lake Hawassa
- Local Sidama cultural experiences
Amora Gedel Park is one of the most popular places in Hawassa to relax, walk among trees, and watch monkeys and birds. St. Gabriel Church is another important religious and cultural site in the city.
Sidama Culture and Coffee
Hawassa is found in the territory of the Sidama Region, which is famed for its high-quality coffee production. Sidama coffee is internationally known for its rich flavor and quality. Visitors can enjoy traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremonies and learn more about local coffee culture.
The Sidama people are known for their hospitality, colorful traditions, and rich cultural heritage. Sidaamu Afoo and Amharic are commonly spoken in the region.
Day Trips from Hawassa
Yirgalem Sidama Village
A day trip to Yirgalem Sidama Village allows visitors to experience authentic Sidama culture, local food, village life, coffee farms, and traditional coffee ceremonies.
Shashamane Rastafarian Community
Visitors can also travel to Shashamane to visit the Rastafarian community, which has historical connections with Jamaica and Emperor Haile Selassie I. The town is known for its Rastafarian culture and unique atmosphere.
Wondo Genet Hot Springs
Wondo Genet is another popular excursion from Hawassa, famous for its natural hot springs, swimming pools, green forests, and relaxing atmosphere.
How to Get to Hawassa
Hawassa is located about 275 km south of Addis Ababa and is connected by a modern highway, making road travel comfortable and convenient. Public buses, private transportation, and domestic flights also connect Hawassa with other parts of Ethiopia.
Industry and Development
After the construction of the Hawassa Industrial Park, many international companies moved into the city to produce apparel and textiles. Other industries concentrated in the city include agricultural product processing, brewing, and textile manufacturing. Hawassa is now one of Ethiopia’s fastest-growing cities and an important commercial and tourism center in southern Ethiopia.
Best Time to Visit Hawassa
Hawassa enjoys pleasant weather throughout much of the year. The dry season, especially from October to February, is considered one of the best times to visit Hawassa.
