Lake Hawassa Lake

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.

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.

• 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.