Overview
Ziway offers a refreshing escape from Addis Ababa at just 162 km away, making it the most accessible major Rift Valley lake for weekend getaways or brief stops. The town is famous for its fresh tilapia fish, served in traditional Ethiopian preparations at restaurants near the jetty.
Budget Travel · Day Trips · Nature · Wildlife
Before you go
Accommodation
Budget rooms start around 160 birr on the main road. Lakeside resorts near the jetty offer higher-end options from 450 birr and up.
Activities
Boat trips on Lake Ziway start at 650 birr for the full Bird and Hippos tour. Entry to the lake park costs 10 birr for residents and 20 birr for foreigners.
Food
Fresh tilapia fish is the local specialty, available at restaurants near the jetty for as little as 10 birr. Lunch is typically served during daytime hours only.
Transport
Ziway is accessible by bus from Addis Ababa along the main southern highway. The town is a common stop for transport between Addis and southern destinations.
Weather
As part of the Ethiopian Rift Valley, Ziway has a moderate climate cooler than Addis Ababa due to the lake's influence.
