Overview
A day trip to Wenchi Crater Lake is a breathtaking adventure that takes you to one of Ethiopia’s most stunning natural wonders. Located approximately 155 kilometers west of Addis Ababa, Wenchi is a volcanic caldera filled with a pristine lake, lush greenery, and charming rural villages. This destination is perfect for nature lovers, hikers, and those seeking a peaceful escape from the city.
Itinerary
Depart early morning around 7:00am from Addis Ababa to Debre Libanos. On the way, enjoy the picturesque countryside, passing through small towns, farmland, and the Sululta Plain.
Upon arrival, your guide will provide an overview of the monastery's history. Debre Libanos was founded in the 13th century by Saint Tekle Haymanot, a prominent figure in the Ethiopian Orthodox Church. The current church was rebuilt in the 1960s after the original was destroyed during an Italian invasion in the 1930s. Learn about the monastery's role as one of Ethiopia's most important religious sites and its connection to the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church.
Visit the monastery, which features beautiful stained-glass windows depicting biblical scenes and Ethiopian saints. Attend a prayer service if your visit coincides with one. Explore the small museum on-site, which houses religious artifacts, manuscripts, and relics related to Saint Tekle Haymanot and observe the daily life of monks and pilgrims who come to pray and seek blessings.
Visit Saint Tekle Haymanot's Cave; a short walk from the monastery takes you to the cave where Saint Tekle Haymanot is said to have prayed for 29 years. The cave is a
sacred site for pilgrims. Visit Debre Libanos Waterfall; a scenic hike (about 30-45 minutes) leads to a beautiful waterfall nearby. The trail offers stunning views of the Jemma River Gorge and is a great spot for photography. Lunch Break; enjoy a traditional Ethiopian lunch at a nearby restaurant or picnic spot.
After lunch break: resume the tour with a visit to the historic Portuguese Bridge, a stone bridge built in the 16th century. It is a great spot for photos and offers panoramic views of the gorge. Spend some time around the gorge to observing wildlife such as the endemic Gelada baboons and several bird species.
Finally, begin the return journey to Addis Ababa. Arrive back in the city by early evening, with memories of a peaceful and enriching day trip. End of the tour.
Price Includes
- All transfers and ground transportation with fuel and driver allowance
- All entrance fees according to the program
- Bottles of drinking water throughout the tour
- Multilingual professional guide
Price Excludes
- Lunch and Dinner
- Alcoholic drinks
- Any other expenses which are not mentioned under what’s included section
FAQs
The lake is the beautiful legacy of a once powerful volcano erupting in the Tertiary period of the Cenozoic Era. The volcano erupted about 1000 years ago and left asymmetric caldera of rock which is now covered in lush green vegetation.
Wenchi lake is located 155 km from Addis Ababa. 38 Km from Woliso or 28 KM from Ambo Total distance is similar either way. With less than 50 volcanic lakes in the world, about 5 of them are located in Ethiopia.
Lake Tana is the largest lake in Ethiopia. It’s located in the Amhara Region of Ethiopia and is home to many islands, churches, and monasteries
