Bishoftu Crater Lakes
Discover Bishoftu's stunning volcanic crater lakes, a tranquil oasis offering resorts, wildlife, and breathtaking scenery just an hour from Addis Abab...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Bishoftu Crater Lakes
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Bishoftu's stunning volcanic crater lakes, a tranquil oasis offering resorts, wildlife, and breathtaking scenery just an hour from Addis Ababa.
"Amazing place to visit, beautiful place with the best food."
🚗 Day Trip Ease
Book a tour for a stress-free day trip from Addis, often including resort access.
💰 Resort Pricing
Room prices vary; check options like Noora Resort for suites ranging from $80-$500.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Lake Bishoftu
Main Crater Lake
A tranquil resort town offering stunning lake views, swimming pools, and elegant rooms for a relaxing getaway.
Lake Hora
Rift Valley
Known for watersports and abundant wildlife, this lake offers a more active experience with opportunities for birdwatching.
Noora Resort
Bishoftu Lake
A popular resort with cozy wooden interiors and beautiful lake views, offering various suite options.
Sheba Village
Bishoftu
A resort offering a pleasant stay with scenic views, perfect for a weekend retreat from the city.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds
Getting There & Around
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Day Trip Ease
Book a tour for a stress-free day trip from Addis, often including resort access.
💰 Resort Pricing
Room prices vary; check options like Noora Resort for suites ranging from $80-$500. +2
📸 Capture the Views
Early mornings offer the best light for stunning photos of the crater lakes.
🛶 Lake Activities
Enjoy boat rides and watersports, especially at Lake Hora.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Day Trip Ease
Book a tour for a stress-free day trip from Addis, often including resort access.
💰 Resort Pricing
Room prices vary; check options like Noora Resort for suites ranging from $80-$500. +2
📸 Capture the Views
Early mornings offer the best light for stunning photos of the crater lakes.
🛶 Lake Activities
Enjoy boat rides and watersports, especially at Lake Hora.
💧 Meaning of Name
Bishoftu means 'place of water/lakes/springs', reflecting its abundant natural beauty.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Bishoftu Crater Lakes are consistently praised as a beautiful and relaxing destination, perfect for a weekend escape from Addis Ababa. Visitors love the stunning lake views, the tranquil atmosphere, and the resort amenities. Some find the resort prices a bit high, and weekends can get crowded.
"It is a really nice place to visit again and again"
Marwan Jarrah
"Tap on a clip to paste it in the text box."
Mame Nura
"Amazing place to visit"
Osama Al-Abdali
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Bishoftu is about an hour's drive from Addis Ababa. You can hire a taxi or join a day tour. Many tour operators like Adimasu Tours offer convenient day trips that include transportation and activities.
Yes, taxis are readily available in Addis Ababa to take you to Bishoftu. For a more organized experience, booking a tour is recommended.
The journey typically takes around 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic conditions.
Absolutely! Companies like Adimasu Tours and 360voyage offer day trips that cover transportation, activities, and sometimes resort access.
While public transport options exist, they can be less convenient and time-consuming. Hiring a taxi or joining a tour is generally preferred for ease and comfort.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the general areas around the lakes is usually free. However, resorts like Noora Resort or Lake Bishoftu Resort may charge a day-use fee or require you to be a guest.
The lakes are natural attractions and are generally accessible at any time. However, resorts and their facilities will have specific operating hours.
Visiting the lakes themselves is free. Costs will be associated with transportation, food, and any resort day passes or accommodation you choose.
Yes, resorts like Noora Resort might have day-use fees or require bookings for their facilities. Some tours include these fees.
Yes, some tours offer day passes to resorts, allowing you to use their amenities like pools and restaurants.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The main attractions are the beautiful volcanic crater lakes, including Lake Bishoftu, Lake Hora, and others. Resorts like Noora Resort offer stunning views and amenities.
You can enjoy boat rides, birdwatching, relaxing by the lakes, swimming at resorts, and exploring the natural scenery.
Absolutely! Bishoftu is a popular day trip destination from Addis Ababa, offering a refreshing escape into nature.
Early mornings are ideal for cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, offering the best light for photography. Weekends are livelier but busier.
Yes, Bishoftu has several resorts and hotels, such as Noora Resort and Lake Bishoftu Resort, offering overnight stays with lake views. +3
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Resorts like Noora Resort offer dining options, serving dishes like burgers. Many hotels also have restaurants.
You can find a mix of local Ethiopian cuisine and international dishes at the various resorts and restaurants.
While resorts can be pricier, local eateries in Bishoftu town might offer more budget-friendly options.
Picnicking might be possible in designated areas, but check with local authorities or resorts if you plan to do so.
A deluxe burger at Noora Resort, for example, costs around 500 Birr. Prices can vary significantly between resorts and local eateries.
📸 📸 Photography
The shores of the crater lakes, especially during sunrise or sunset, offer stunning photographic opportunities. Resorts with lake views also provide great backdrops.
Early mornings provide soft, golden light and fewer crowds, making it ideal for capturing the serene beauty of the lakes.
Drone usage regulations can be strict in Ethiopia. It's advisable to check with local authorities or your tour operator before flying a drone.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is useful for landscapes and general shots. A wide-angle lens can capture the expansive lake views.
Generally, yes, but it's always polite to ask for permission if you are photographing staff or other guests.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Day trips are a great option for families with younger children, as they minimize travel time and allow for a full day of activities without the need for overnight stays. Pack plenty of snacks and drinks, and be prepared for sunny weather.
+1💰 Budget Travelers
Consider focusing on the natural beauty of the lakes themselves, which are free to access. Pack your own snacks and water to avoid purchasing them at inflated resort prices. Some tours might offer more affordable packages that include basic transportation and access to scenic spots.
+1💑 Couples & Romantic Getaways
Enjoy a leisurely stroll around the lakes, share a meal with a view, or simply relax and soak in the tranquil atmosphere. Weekday visits can offer a more intimate and quiet experience, perfect for reconnecting.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Volcanic Origins of Bishoftu's Lakes
These natural formations create a picturesque environment, attracting visitors seeking tranquility and natural beauty. The volcanic soil also supports lush vegetation around the lakes, enhancing their scenic appeal. The presence of these crater lakes is the primary reason for Bishoftu's development as a popular resort town and a weekend getaway from the bustling capital of Addis Ababa.
Understanding the volcanic origins adds a layer of appreciation for the dramatic landscapes. It's a reminder of the dynamic Earth beneath our feet and how such geological processes can result in breathtaking natural wonders.
Resort Life and Accommodation Options
Other notable accommodations include Lake Bishoftu Resort, which boasts a swimming pool, elegant rooms, and a serene river setting, making it a perfect choice for a vacation gateway. [^T9, Reviews] Sheba Village is another option mentioned for its pleasant stay and scenic views.
When planning your stay, consider booking in advance, especially for weekends or holidays, as Bishoftu is a popular destination. Researching the specific amenities and room types offered by each resort will help you choose the best fit for your needs, whether you're seeking a luxurious retreat or a comfortable base for exploring the lakes.
Experiencing Bishoftu: Activities and Local Insights
For those seeking more engagement, boat rides are a popular option, particularly on lakes like Lake Hora, which also offers opportunities for watersports and birdwatching.
+2 The town's name, Bishoftu, translates to 'place of water/lakes/springs,' underscoring its aquatic charm. Local insights suggest that weekdays offer a more peaceful experience, while weekends are livelier with more visitors from Addis Ababa. Travelers often recommend booking a day trip from Addis Ababa, which can simplify logistics and often includes access to resorts or guided activities.
+3 This allows visitors to maximize their time and experience the best of what Bishoftu has to offer without the stress of independent travel arrangements. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit