Spend a day outside Addis Ababa exploring the volcanic crater lakes of Bishoftu—birding around Babogaya, kayaking on Kuriftu Lake, sampling Areki and taking part in a traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony at Kuriftu Resort.
Spend a day outside Addis Ababa exploring the volcanic crater lakes of Bishoftu—birding around Babogaya, kayaking on Kuriftu Lake, sampling Areki and taking part in a traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony at Kuriftu Resort.
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Operated by Addis Authentic Tours · Bishoftu, Oromia Region
You step out of the air-conditioned van and the Rift Valley air hits you—cooler, drier, threaded with the distant calls of waterbirds. The five crater lakes around Bishoftu sit like dark mirrors in a low caldera; winds push light ripples across Kuriftu while babblers and raptors test the margins.
easy.
7–8 hours.
Suitable for most fitness levels; involves short walks on packed earth and a low-intensity kayak session.
The drive is about 60–75 minutes one way depending on traffic; total tour time is roughly 7–8 hours including activities.
Yes—kuriftu’s guided kayak sessions are short and introductory; basic paddling ability is sufficient and life jackets are provided.
Lunch at Kuriftu Resort and bottled water are included; any additional beverages or resort amenities may be extra.
Yes—this tour is family friendly with stroller access noted, though kayak participation may be limited by child age or weight.
Bishoftu expanded as a leisure town in the early 20th century and sits on the Rift Valley’s eastern escarpment; the lakes are volcanic maars shaped by phreatomagmatic eruptions.
Lakes face pressures from development and tourism—stick to marked paths, avoid littering, and support local conservation-minded operators.
Addis Authentic Tours operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.




Book with Addis Authentic Tours
Book directly with Addis Authentic Tours for the best rates and real-time scheduling.
Reserve Now