A Morning in Awassa
It had been a restful and comfortable night at Haile Awassa Resort, and although our stay had only lasted a single night, it left us wishing we had more time. The resort, set by the waters of Lake Awassa, had given us a gentle introduction to the city, but our real exploration began the following morning. Before leaving Awassa, our guide took us to one of the city’s most famous and lively attractions—the Awassa Fish Market.
🎣 The Awassa Fish Market
The market is located right by the lakeside, and it immediately struck us as a place full of life, colour, and movement. It is not just a market but an experience in itself, drawing both locals who come for their daily shopping and visitors curious to watch the whole spectacle unfold. We were met by a local guide who explained what was happening around us.
The day at the market begins early. Fishermen return from the lake with their catch—mostly tilapia, the fish that Lake Awassa is best known for. They haul their nets onto the shore, and without any delay, the fish are cleaned and prepared right there in front of everyone. It is a practical, no-nonsense process, but also surprisingly fascinating to watch. Pieces of net, fish scales, and buckets of fresh catch were scattered about, so we picked our way carefully through the busy scene. Some women were preparing dishes on the spot: a local version of ceviche, plates of freshly cooked fish, and even traditional fish soup. We watched with interest but didn’t try any.
Down at the water’s edge, younger boys helped out, working alongside the fishermen before heading off to school. Some were rolling up nets, others organising the boats, and all of them seemed to know exactly what they were doing. The entire place was buzzing with energy, and it felt like everyone had a role to play in this small but vital part of the city’s daily life.
🦅 Birds Among the Fishermen
One of the most striking things about the market is not only the people but also the wildlife it attracts. Dozens of enormous marabou storks and elegant pelicans stood nearby, watching intently for scraps. Every time a fish was cut or cleaned, the birds edged closer, hoping to snatch leftovers. The mix of people, fish, and these huge birds created a unique atmosphere—half marketplace, half nature reserve. Children played nearby, weaving in and out of the crowd, and somehow it all fitted together in a way that felt natural and lively.
🌳 A Stroll Through Amora Gedel Park
Just beside the market lies Amora Gedel Park, a welcome change of pace after the noise and movement of the fish market. Stretching along the lakeside, it is a peaceful green space where people come to walk, relax, and enjoy the views of Lake Awassa. Shaded benches are dotted around, and families gather here to sit and watch the water.
What makes the park so enjoyable is the abundance of wildlife. Hundreds of vervet monkeys were scurrying about, including mothers carrying tiny babies clinging to their stomachs. They seemed completely at ease with people, moving quickly across the grass and trees. Our guide led us slowly through the paths, pointing out trees and plants as we went.
At the centre of the park, the administration office is home to another troop of monkeys—colobus monkeys with their striking black and white fur. We had seen photos online of people letting them climb onto their shoulders, but we chose not to take part in that. Instead, we enjoyed simply watching them, their long coats flowing as they moved gracefully from tree to tree.
🐦 Birdlife by the Lake
As we wandered further, we came to a wetland area near the lakeshore that has become a haven for birds. Here we saw ibis stepping carefully through the shallows, Egyptian geese gliding across the water, pelicans gathering in groups, and cormorants perched on branches, drying their wings in the sun. Bright flashes of colour came from kingfishers darting into the water and bee-eaters swooping across the reeds. The variety of birdlife made the park feel alive and constantly moving, and it was easy to see why it is such a favourite spot for both locals and visitors.
🐒 An Unexpected Encounter
As we started to head back towards the entrance, we came across something less pleasant. A group of people were feeding a hyena. These animals are powerful and dangerous in the wild, and it was unsettling to see them being tamed by human feeding. The hyena hung back at first, but then approached, clearly used to being given scraps. It was a reminder that not all interactions between people and wildlife are positive, and it left us feeling a little uneasy.
🚐 Leaving for Arba Minch
With our visit to the park complete, it was time to leave Awassa behind. Our journey was taking us further south to Arba Minch, another lakeside city. Known as the “Gateway to the Omo Valley”, it would be our base for the coming days as we travelled out to meet some of the region’s most distinctive tribes. The excitement of what lay ahead balanced the sadness of leaving Awassa so soon.
Final Thoughts
Awassa had offered us a short but memorable glimpse into lakeside life in southern Ethiopia. The lively fish market, full of energy, tradition, and the interplay between people and nature, contrasted perfectly with the calm green stretches of Amora Gedel Park. Wildlife was everywhere, from the storks and pelicans circling the fishermen to the playful monkeys and dazzling birdlife by the wetlands. Even the unsettling sight of a fed hyena was part of the complex story of how people and animals coexist here. Though our time was brief, Awassa left a vivid impression, and it was a fitting stop on the journey towards the Omo Valley.
Planning your visit to Awassa
📍 Location
Awassa lies in the Great Rift Valley, around 275 km south of Addis Ababa. It is the capital of Sidama Region and sits on the eastern shore of Lake Awassa. The city is well-known for its relaxed atmosphere, lake views, birdlife, and as a hub for exploring the wider Rift Valley.
🛣 How to Get There
By road: Regular minibuses and coaches operate between Addis Ababa and Awassa, taking 4–5 hours. Private taxis or hired vehicles are also an option if you prefer flexibility.
By air: Ethiopian Airlines operates domestic flights from Addis Ababa to Hawassa Airport, with the journey taking under an hour, followed by a short drive into town.
🌐 Official Website
The city itself does not have a single tourism website, but useful resources and updates can be found at:
http://www.sidamaregion.gov.et
(regional government portal)
For local hotels, lodges, and guided experiences, many providers also list details on travel sites and directories.
For tourism enquiries, you can reach out through the Sidama Region Tourism Office:
tourism@sidamaregion.gov.et
📞 Telephone
Sidama Region Tourism Office: +251 46 220 0000 (general office line, transfers available).
⏰ Opening Hours
Most attractions in Awassa, including the lakeside parks and fish market, are accessible throughout the day. Offices, shops, and government tourism desks typically open Monday to Friday from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM, with a break for lunch.
💰 Entry Fees
Lake Awassa Fish Market: Small local entry fee of around 30–50 Birr for foreign visitors.
Amora Gedel Park (lakeside): Entry fee of about 20–40 Birr.
Boat rides on Lake Awassa: Prices vary by operator but typically range from 200–400 Birr per boat depending on the duration.
Most other parts of the city, such as the main markets and walking by the lakeshore, are free to enjoy.
📝 Quick Travel Tips
Accommodation: Awassa offers everything from lakeside resorts and lodges to budget guesthouses.
Packing: Bring light clothes for the warm daytime, a light jacket for the cooler evenings, insect repellent, and binoculars for birdwatching.
Transport within town: Bajaj (three-wheelers) and minibuses are cheap and convenient.
The best time to visit Awassa
🌦️ Visiting Awassa by Season
Awassa, also known as Hawassa, sits in southern Ethiopia along the shores of Lake Awassa. Its climate is more temperate than the highlands of Addis Ababa and not as dry as the Rift Valley plains. The city enjoys warm days year-round, but rainfall patterns and temperatures vary enough to make some months more appealing for travel than others.
☀️ Dry Season (December to February)
These are some of the most comfortable months to visit Awassa. The days are warm and pleasant, with cooler evenings that rarely feel cold. Rainfall is minimal, making it easier to explore the lakeside, take boat rides, or wander through the bustling fish market without weather disruptions. The clear skies also allow for excellent birdwatching, with many migratory species gathering at the lake. This season is also a busy time for local tourism, so accommodation should be booked in advance.
🌸 Shoulder Season (March to May)
March begins dry, but by April and May the short rains arrive. While the showers can be heavy at times, they are usually brief and followed by sunshine. The landscape becomes greener, flowers bloom, and Lake Awassa looks particularly lush. It is still a good time to visit, especially if you enjoy quieter travel with fewer crowds. However, some roads and trails can become muddy, so sturdy footwear is useful.
🌧️ Long Rainy Season (June to September)
This is the wettest period of the year, with heavy and prolonged rainfall. Travel can be more challenging due to muddy roads and reduced access to some areas. That said, the countryside is at its most vibrant, and Lake Awassa swells with water, attracting a great variety of birds. The constant rain can make outdoor plans unpredictable, so visitors during this period should be flexible and patient.
🍂 Short Dry Season (October to November)
Rainfall tapers off during these months, and the weather stabilises. Days are pleasantly warm, the air is fresh, and the city feels calm after the rains. This is an excellent time for photography, as the lake and surrounding countryside remain green and full of life. Tourist numbers are moderate, making it easier to find good accommodation and enjoy a relaxed pace.
🎒 What to Pack
Light clothing: Breathable shirts, trousers, and dresses for warm daytime temperatures.
Layers: A light jumper or jacket for cooler evenings.
Rain gear: A waterproof jacket and an umbrella if visiting during the rainy months.
Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes or sandals, plus sturdy shoes for wet conditions.
Sun protection: Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat, as the sun can be strong even on cloudy days.
Insect repellent: Useful around the lakeshore, particularly in the evenings.
📊 Seasonal Summary Chart
| Season | Months | Weather & Travel Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Dry Season | Dec – Feb | Best weather, warm days, cool evenings, ideal for outdoors |
| Shoulder Season | Mar – May | Short rains, lush scenery, fewer tourists |
| Long Rainy Season | Jun – Sep | Heavy rains, travel harder, but countryside very green |
| Short Dry Season | Oct – Nov | Pleasant weather, green landscapes, moderate crowds |
🌍 Overall Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Awassa is during the dry season from December to February. Travelling is easier, the skies are clearer, and you can make the most of the lake and nearby attractions without interruption from rain. However, for those who prefer lush scenery and don’t mind the chance of showers, October and November also offer a beautiful balance of comfort and greenery.