Stand on Piazza Road in the late afternoon and you can walk in a straight line from the edge of town to the shore of Lake Hawassa, where boats wait to carry visitors out toward the hippo groups. The water gives the city its name, and it shapes most of what there is to do here.
Awassa suits travellers who want a slow day on a lake rather than a checklist of monuments, and who are comfortable arranging things locally. This guide covers the sights and experiences worth your time, plus how to string them together if you have only one day.
Top things to do in Awassa
1. Hippos in Lake Awasa
Walk Piazza Rd down to the lake, where plenty of boats carry tourists out to see one of the hippo groups. The tours are popular with locals and foreign tourists alike. If you are lucky you will see many hippos; if they are resting, you may only see their ears above the water.
A boat costs about 500 Birr, but several people can share the cost. Alternatively, if you have the time, sit at a quiet spot next to the lake, where the hippos sometimes come over for food.
2. Fish Market
The Fish Market sits by the lake on the south west edge of town. It is quite small, and the guides there are keen to show you around at a high asking price. You are not required to engage a guide, but if you do not, there appears to be a 50 birr entry fee.
If arguing with the guides becomes too much, retire to the outdoor cafes beside the market and eat fresh caught, cooked fish for 30 birr. Right beside the Fish Market is a small park, well worth strolling around for an hour or two.
3. Bicycle the 55 km around the lake
Cycling the 55 km around the lake is extraordinary beautiful on the opposite side of Awassa, where you ride a small path through villages on the shore speckled with cacti and wild olive trees.
Beware of children, especially when they are in a large group with no adult around, as they could start grabbing you and throw stuff.
If you only have one day
Morning: Walk Piazza Rd to the lake and take a boat out to the hippo groups, sharing the cost with other travellers if you can.
Afternoon: Head to the Fish Market on the south west edge of town, then eat fresh caught, cooked fish at one of the outdoor cafes beside it and stroll the small park next door.
Evening: Return to a quiet spot next to the lake, where the hippos sometimes come over for food.
Frequently asked questions
How do I see the hippos?
Walk Piazza Rd to the lake, where boats carry tourists out to one of the hippo groups. You may see many hippos, or just their ears if they are resting.
Do I need a guide at the Fish Market?
No. You are not required to engage one, though if you do not, there appears to be a 50 birr entry fee charged.
What should I watch out for when cycling around the lake?
Beware of children, especially in a large group with no adult around, as they could start grabbing you and throw stuff.
Decide on your day at the lake, then start planning the rest of your trip around it.