2-Day Lake Wonchi Crater Lake Tour: Volcanic Wonders & Ancient Forests

Day Trips and Excursion

Gallery

Duration: 2 Days

Language: English

Overview

Embark on the ultimate 2-Day Lake Wonchi Crater Lake Tour, a curated nature getaway designed for travelers seeking a refreshing escape into the Oromia highlands. This professionally guided expedition combines the breathtaking turquoise waters of the Wonchi volcanic caldera with the ancient indigenous canopy of the Menagesha Suba Forest. Over two days, you will transition from 3,000-meter crater rims to historic 15th-century conservation areas, exploring island monasteries and spotting endemic wildlife like the Menelik’s Bushbuck. Whether you choose to trek the crater walls on foot or by horseback, this 2-Day Lake Wonchi Crater Lake Tour offers the perfect blend of light adventure, cultural discovery, and lakeside serenity just a few hours from Addis Ababa.

What To Expect

Day 1: Wonchi Crater Lake Adventure

Route: Addis Ababa – Woliso – Wonchi Lake
Depart Addis Ababa at 6:30 AM for a scenic drive through the rolling hills of the Oromia region. Upon arrival at the Wonchi rim, descend into the lush caldera by foot or horseback, passing waterfalls and local farmsteads. Experience a traditional wooden boat ride across the crater lake to visit the 13th-century Cherkos Monastery. After exploring natural hot springs and meeting local Gurage and Oromo communities, ascend back to the rim.

Overnight: Negash Lodge (Woliso), featuring natural volcanic hot spring pools.

Day 2: Menagesha Suba Forest & Return

Route: Woliso – Menagesha Suba Forest – Addis Ababa
After breakfast, drive to Menagesha Suba Forest, one of Africa’s oldest protected state forests. Embark on a guided forest hike through a canopy of ancient Juniper and Hagenia trees. This ecological sanctuary is the premier location to spot the endemic Menelik’s Bushbuck, Colobus monkeys, and rare forest birds. Learn about the forest’s conservation history dating back to the 15th-century reign of Emperor Zera Yacob before returning to Addis Ababa in the late afternoon for hotel drop-off or airport transfer.

What’s Included:

Transportation: Private vehicle with professional driver and fuel (hotel pickup/drop-off).
Accommodations: One night at Negash Lodge (Woliso) with access to hot spring pools.
Expert Guiding: Professional English-speaking local cultural and nature guide.
Entrance Fees: All permits for Wonchi Crater and Menagesha Suba Forest.
Activities: Boat crossing to Cherkos Monastery and guided forest hikes.
Dining: Picnic lunches and bottled mineral water throughout the tour.

What’s Not Included:

Horse Rental: Optional horseback riding fees in Wonchi (paid to local community).
Personal Expenses: Souvenirs, extra snacks, and gratuities.
Beverages: Alcoholic drinks or additional specialty coffees.
Insurance: Personal travel and medical insurance.

From $250.00

Price depends on the group size