Ethiopia: 8-Day Bike and Hike Adventure
ID: GYG1097425-1685271
Category:
Country: Ethiopia
Duration:
8 days
Description
Discover Ethiopia’s breathtaking landscapes, rich cultures, and ancient heritage on an 8-day bike and hike journey. Cycle through volcanic craters and explore coffee-growing regions.
Embark on an 8-day bike and hike adventure through Ethiopia’s breathtaking landscapes, rich cultures, and ancient heritage. From the bustling high-altitude capital of Addis Ababa to the serene shores of Lake Hawassa, this journey combines challenging rides with rewarding cultural encounters and stunning natural beauty.
Cycle through volcanic craters, the fertile fields of the Gurage highlands, and the dramatic escarpments of the Great Rift Valley. Experience exhilarating descents of over 1,000 meters, pedal past traditional villages and vibrant markets, and explore coffee-growing regions that produce some of the world’s finest beans.
Along the way, relax in natural hot springs, spot rare wildlife in Senkele Sanctuary, and soak up the peaceful atmosphere of Rift Valley lakes.
Day 1: Arrival in Addis Ababa
Arrive in Ethiopia’s high-altitude capital (2,355m). Take an optional city tour to the National Museum (home of “Lucy”) and Mercato market. Attend an evening briefing and welcome dinner.
Day 2: Addis Ababa – Woliso
Drive to Woliso (120 km). Enjoy a short 10 km acclimatization ride, then relax in the natural hot springs.
Day 3: Wenchi Crater & Gurage Region
Cycle 45 km around Wenchi Crater with a 1,600m descent, then 45 km through Gurage villages and landscapes.
Day 4: Gurage to Hosaina
Take on a challenging 105 km ride across rolling hills, farmland, and Rift Valley ridges with stunning views.
Day 5: Hosaina – Alaba – Hawassa
Ride 100 km with an 850m climb and thrilling 1,400m descent into the Rift Valley. Continue to lakeside Hawassa.
Day 6: Sidama Plateau & Senkele Sanctuary
Ride 90 km through coffee plantations and Sidama villages, ending at Senkele Wildlife Sanctuary. Return to Hawassa.
Day 7: Lake Hawassa Circuit
Cycle a 70–80 km loop around Lake Hawassa, passing wetlands, fishing villages, and vibrant markets. Enjoy a farewell dinner by the lake.
Day 8: Return to Addis Ababa & Departure
Spend the morning free in Hawassa, then drive back to Addis. Enjoy a traditional farewell dinner before evening flights.
Highlights
- Feel the thrill of cycling through volcanic craters and fertile fields
- Explore the dramatic escarpments of the Great Rift Valley
- Pedal past traditional villages and vibrant markets
- Relax in natural hot springs and spot rare wildlife in Senkele Sanctuary
- Soak up the peaceful atmosphere of the Rift Valley lakes
Guiding languages
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
High-altitude locations may affect some travelers
Challenging physical activity involved
Weather can vary significantly
Cultural sensitivity is advised
Your guide will be waiting for you just outside the arrivals hall at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport.
Look for a representative holding a sign with your name and the tour company logo.
Our staff wear a [company-branded shirt/vest/ID badge] for easy identification.
INCLUDED
- 7 nights’ accommodation in carefully selected hotels/lodges
- All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) with bottled water
- Airport transfers and all ground transportation in a private vehicle
- Fully equipped mountain bikes (with backup support vehicle)
- Professional local cycling guides & support crew
- Entrance fees to all parks, sanctuaries, and cultural sites
- Daily luggage transfer and technical support during rides
- Welcome dinner in Addis Ababa & farewell cultural dinner with traditional music and dance
NOT INCLUDED
- International flights
- Travel insurance (required)
- Personal expenses, tips, or drinks beyond what’s included
When should I book?
To guarantee availability book as soon as possible. Early booking is worth consideration especially if you planning the trip during high season like public holidays or weekends.
Cancellations
This excursion you can cancel with no cost up to 24 hours before the start of the trip. If you cancel it after 24 hours or not show up on the excursion you will still be charged the full price of the activity. Being late on pick-up or departure will be considered as not showing up.
