Lake Hawassa
Lake Rift Valley lake in Ethiopia known for birdlife
On Ethiopia’s Rift Valley, Lake Hawassa borders the city of Hawassa; visitors take boat trips, watch waterbirds and sample lakeside markets and cafés offering fresh fish.
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Lake Hawassa is a freshwater lake in the Ethiopian Rift Valley, located in the Sidama Region and adjacent to the city of Hawassa on its northern shore. The lake is a notable feature of the rift landscape in southern Ethiopia.
The lake supports local fisheries and small-scale boating, and the shoreline near the city contains hotels, restaurants and recreational facilities used by residents and visitors. It is also frequented for birdwatching and day trips from the city.
The lake’s modern significance is closely linked to the growth of the city of Hawassa on the northern shore, which has developed as a regional commercial and tourist centre since the mid-20th century.
Geographically the lake sits in the Ethiopian Rift Valley; the urban centre of Hawassa is on its northern shore and provides the main settlement and transport links for the area. Coordinates place it at latitude 7.05, longitude 38.43333.
- Access via Hawassa city: The city of Hawassa lies on the lake's northern shore and provides the main access points, accommodation and boat services for visitors.
How to Get to Lake Hawassa #
Hawassa is accessible by road from Addis Ababa (about 250 km south), with buses and private vehicles commonly used. Local transport connects the town center to lakeside areas.
Tips for Visiting Lake Hawassa #
- Take a lakeside boat trip at sunset when fishermen bring in their nets and the light softens the shoreline.
- Visit the lively market near the town-fresh fish and local crafts tell as much of Hawassa's story as the lake.
- Try a coffee ceremony at a lakeside café to combine cultural experience with the view of the water.
Best Time to Visit Lake Hawassa #
October-February for clearer skies and more comfortable daytime temperatures.
Weather & Climate near Lake Hawassa #
Lake Hawassa's climate is classified as Tropical Savanna - Tropical Savanna climate with consistently warm temperatures year-round. Temperatures range from 11°C to 28°C. Moderate rainfall (985 mm/year).
January
January is mild with highs of 28°C and lows of 12°C. Moderate rainfall (33 mm) and mostly sunny skies.
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February
February is the warmest month with highs of 28°C and lows of 13°C. Moderate rainfall (45 mm) and mostly sunny skies.
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March
March is mild with highs of 28°C and lows of 14°C. Moderate rainfall (78 mm).
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April
April is mild with highs of 27°C and lows of 14°C. Regular rainfall (99 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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May
May is mild with highs of 26°C and lows of 14°C. Significant rainfall (123 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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June
June is mild with highs of 25°C and lows of 14°C. Regular rainfall (96 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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July
July is mild with highs of 23°C and lows of 14°C. Significant rainfall (120 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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August
August is mild with highs of 24°C and lows of 14°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (129 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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September
September is mild with highs of 25°C and lows of 14°C. Significant rainfall (128 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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October
October is mild with highs of 26°C and lows of 13°C. Regular rainfall (84 mm).
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November
November is mild with highs of 27°C and lows of 12°C. Moderate rainfall (31 mm) and mostly sunny skies.
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December
December is mild with highs of 27°C and lows of 11°C. The driest month with just 19 mm and mostly sunny skies.
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