2 Days Ethiopian Rift Valley Lakes Tour from Addis Ababa
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

2 Days Ethiopian Rift Valley Lakes Tour from Addis Ababa

Outty Ranking 65 4.9 · 8 traveler reviews48 hoursFrom $845
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Outty Ranking

65/100

Solid Choice. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

4.9/5

Based on 8 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is 2 Days Ethiopian Rift Valley Lakes Tour from Addis Ababa worth booking?

2 Days Ethiopian Rift Valley Lakes Tour from Addis Ababa is a 48-hour experience in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, from $845 per person. It scores 65 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Solid Choice”, based on a 4.9/5 rating across 8 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
65 / 100
Rating
4.9/5 (8)
Duration
48 hours
From
$845 per person

Enjoy the freedom of stopping at different viewpoints to enjoy the dramatic view of the Ethiopian part of the Great East African Rift Valley by drive with a comfortable air conditioned Toyota Minivan, and learn from your professional experienced English speaking tour guide of the Ethiopian birdlife at the Rift Valley Lake of Ziway. Meet local families and partake a typical Ethiopian Coffee Ceremony, and see the bird life of the lakes and wildlife of the Abiyatta Shalla Lakes National Park. The tour also includes visiting the unique and still operational rock carved church of Adadi Mariam, Tiya Steles (a cemetery dating back to 12th – 14th Century AD and UNESCO World Heritage Site), and walking by Lake Ziway to spot a number of lowland water birds. The tour includes a total of 580 km drive in two days. On Thursdays or Sundays, experience local culture at the colorful weekly held cultural market at Adadi town.

What you get

    About this experience

    Enjoy the freedom of stopping at different viewpoints to enjoy the dramatic view of the Ethiopian part of the Great East African Rift Valley by drive with a comfortable air conditioned Toyota Minivan, and learn from your professional experienced English speaking tour guide of the Ethiopian birdlife at the Rift Valley Lake of Ziway. Meet local families and partake a typical Ethiopian Coffee Ceremony, and see the bird life of the lakes and wildlife of the Abiyatta Shalla Lakes National Park. The tour also includes visiting the unique and still operational rock carved church of Adadi Mariam, Tiya Steles (a cemetery dating back to 12th – 14th Century AD and UNESCO World Heritage Site), and walking by Lake Ziway to spot a number of lowland water birds. The tour includes a total of 580 km drive in two days. On Thursdays or Sundays, experience local culture at the colorful weekly held cultural market at Adadi town.

    What's included

    Included

    • Professional and experienced English speaking tour guide
    • Bottled water in the vehicle
    • Local family visits, Cultural Ethiopian Coffee Ceremony, onsite tour guides, and park scouts
    • Surcharges on fuel
    • Comfortable insured private Toyota Corolla (1 or 2 people) or Minivan with AC and seat belts

    Not included

    • Entrance (admission) fees to places of visits
    • Accommodations
    • Meals
    • And, any expense which are not mentioned in the "Included" list above

    Where it starts and ends

    Hotel pickup

    Pickup is included for all travelers.

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
    Languages
    de, en, fr
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Every day
    Group size
    Up to 15 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    Merit Ethiopian Experience Tours

    Know before you go

    • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
    • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
    • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
    • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
    • June to Mid September is the rainy season where the tour runs. Please be prepared accordingly.
    • When visiting the rock church of Adadi Mariam, women are expected to be fully dressed and cover hairs.
    • We can help visitors book accommodations, if needed. Please contact us!

    Photos

    View of the Rift Valley, 2 Days Ethiopian Rift Valley Lakes Tour from Addis AbabaSunset at Lake Awassa, 2 Days Ethiopian Rift Valley Lakes Tour from Addis AbabaOstriches at Abiyatta-Shalla Lakes National Park, 2 Days Ethiopian Rift Valley Lakes Tour from Addis AbabaView of surrounding area, 2 Days Ethiopian Rift Valley Lakes Tour from Addis AbabaLocal weekly held cultural Sundary market at Adadi town near Addis Ababa, 2 Days Ethiopian Rift Valley Lakes Tour from Addis AbabaColobus Monkeys by Lake Awassa, Southern Ethiopia, 2 Days Ethiopian Rift Valley Lakes Tour from Addis Ababa

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 8 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    The guide

    6 mentions

    Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

    Knowledge and storytelling

    4 mentions

    Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.

    Organization

    3 mentions

    Pickup, timing, and logistics are described as running smoothly.

    Photo opportunities

    2 mentions

    The views and photo stops come up again and again.

    Good for families

    2 mentions

    Reviewers traveling with kids report it landed well with their group.

    Traveler reviews

    8 verified traveler reviews for 2 Days Ethiopian Rift Valley Lakes Tour from Addis Ababa. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    7
    4 star
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    ericnW5784VC · September 2026

    Great experience

    We had a great experience with Merit. Customer service was excellent. From responding to calls, understanding English, timely pick up and drop off, knowledgeable tour guide and flexibility. I would recommend Merit for family or friend group.

    Response from the operator: Dear Eric, Thank you for sharing your experience with us! I am Muluken from Merit Ethiopian Experience Tours. It is wonderful to hear that you enjoyed the Ethiopian Rift Valley Lakes Tour from Addis Ababa with us. Thank you so much for your compliments about our punctuality, clear communication, and the flexibility of the itinerary! At Merit Ethiopian Experience Tours, we care deeply about tailoring our day trips and making sure logistics run seamlessly so families and friend groups can relax and enjoy themselves. We appreciate you mentioned it. Thank you again for choosing us, and we hope to welcome you back a multi day tour in Ethiopia in the future! Kind regards, Muluken Girma Merit Ethiopian Experience Tours (MEET)

    via Tripadvisor

    Trail10162083605 · June 2026

    A very good experience for everyone interested in seeing the real Ethiopia.

    My wife and I were impressed with the diverse experiences we had on this tour. We were very appreciative of the professional and friendly service provided by our tour guide Muluken G. We learned a lot more about the diversity of Ethiopia and how it has transformed into one of Africa most developed countries. Tito & Lindi Francis

    Response from the operator: Dear Tito and Lindi, Hello! Thank you so much for booking the two days tour from Addis Ababa with me and taking the time to share this wonderful review! It was an absolute pleasure being your tour guide and introducing you to the genuine Ethiopia. I am thrilled that you had such a diverse and eye-opening experience exploring the beauty of our country with Merit Ethiopian Experience Tours. I always strive to provide professional, friendly, and deeply informative trips for all my guests. Thanks for mentioning it. Thank you again for choosing us for your 2-day tour near Addis Ababa with us. You are always welcome back to explore more of Ethiopia! Warm regards, Muluken Girma Merit Ethiopian Experience Tours (MEET)

    via Tripadvisor

    Paradise798016 · April 2025

    Great for solo Traveler's

    Teddy was great guy- took me around the city and was very hospitable. Picked me up from airport and ensured a very smooth journey

    Response from the operator: Dear Guest, Hello! Thank you for your wonderful review of our 2 Days Ethiopian Rift Valley Lakes Tour from Addis Ababa! It is great to hear you enjoyed your journey (as a solo traveler) with tour guide Teddy and appreciated his hospitality. Your feedback motivate us to keep delivering exceptional experiences. We hope to welcome you back to Ethiopia on a longer tour someday Thank you so much again! Best regards, Muluken Girma Merit Ethiopian Experience Tours

    via Tripadvisor

    MarionBurkimsher · March 2025

    Great tour guide, great scenic tour, felt very safe and secure

    We found the tour company by looking on Viator but then booking directly with them, which is a cost effective way of doing it (Viator charge 25%). Muluken has been developing his tour guide business for 17 years now, having left his job in accountancy and trained for 2 years in the travel and tourism school in Addis. Although he employs other guides, we had Muluken as our guide, with Hawaryat as our driver. They served us very well, took our wishes into account, shared lots of local knowledge and took us to pretty places. The basic tour plan that we followed was a one-night stay at the Rift Valley lakes but we added a second night away by Lake Langano as we wanted a relaxing break. We did many things and it encapsulated an ‘African’ experience: a little walking safari where we saw gazelles and ostrich, a visit to a centuries old cemetery marked by standing stones; a visit to see the traditional preparation of an Oromo ‘pizza’; a boat trip on Lake Ziway to see islands full of birds; and several lovely viewpoints. We stayed at Rosetta Marina Beach resort, which overlooks Lake Langano and is in a beautiful location. We were almost the only guests there, but I guess it was low season. A big shout out to Hawaryat, our driver, for being so calm and steady, even when faced with potholes, goats, cows, sheep, camels, tuktuks, trucks, tankers, pedestrians, busses and more on the road. It was a rough road in places heading south, but our return to Addis on the new toll motorway was wonderfully smooth and quiet.

    Response from the operator: Hello Marion, This is Muluken. Thank you very much for arranging your private guided tour of the Rift Valley lakes of Ethiopia from Addis Ababa with us! Thank you so much also for sharing your experience with us! It was a true pleasure guiding you to Rift Valley lakes and sharing my passion to Ethiopian culture and history. As a tourism professional in crafting personalized tours for over 17 years, I understand the importance of flexibility and catering to individual preferences. It’s always my goal to ensure each guest has the exact experience they are hoping for, and I'm very glad we could accommodate your wish on this tour to Lake Langano and Ziway. I also want to extend my gratitude for your recognition of Hawaryat’s excellent driving skills. We always strive to ensure that our guests have a comfortable and stress-free experience. We are at your service for any future Ethiopian tours you may consider, and we look forward to creating another memorable experience for you. Thank you again for choosing Merit Ethiopian Experience Tours! Best regards, Muluken Girma

    via Tripadvisor

    Passport65279541020 · February 2024

    Perfect 2 days in Ethiopia

    We went on a two-day trip with the family to Lakes Lagano and Ziway. Our guide Biruk together with the driver were perfect and very helpful. We saw an archaeological site, visited a local family, sailed on a lake and admired hippos. They always helped when we needed to buy fruit or stop at a termite anthill. Big thanks. I highly recommend this agency.

    Response from the operator: Dear Milos, Thank you for your fantastic review on TripAdvisor! The team at Merit Ethiopian Experience Tours is delighted to hear that you enjoyed your Ethiopian Rift Valley Lakes Tour from Addis Ababa. We are glad to know that your 2-day tour was "perfect" and that your guide, Biruk, and driver went above and beyond to ensure your experience was enjoyable. It's wonderful to hear that you appreciated the highlights of your trip, such as visiting the archaeological site, interacting with a local family, sailing on Lake Ziway, and spotting hippos. These unique experiences showcase the diverse landscapes and cultures of Ethiopia, making it a rewarding destination to explore. Once again, Thank you for your kind words and for recommending our tour company. It is truly meaningful to us that you entrusted us with your family vacation and are encouraging others to do the same. We hope to welcome you back soon to discover more of Ethiopia's wonders! Best wishes, Muluken

    via Tripadvisor

    Good to know

    Duration
    48 hours
    Free cancellation
    Up to 24h before
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Every day
    Hotel pickup
    Included for all travelers
    Booked in 30 days
    3
    Verdict
    Solid Choice

    Who runs this experience

    Operated by Merit Ethiopian Experience Tours, who run 7 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 62.3.

    See everything Merit Ethiopian Experience Tours runs

    Why this scores 65

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)92
    Review evidence (18% weight)41
    Booking momentum (14% weight)32
    Value for money (12% weight)44
    Listing quality (10% weight)85
    Local standing (8% weight)51
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    2 Days Ethiopian Rift Valley Lakes Tour from Addis Ababa: questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Addis Ababa.

    How much does 2 Days Ethiopian Rift Valley Lakes Tour from Addis Ababa cost?

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    Prices start at $845 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Addis Ababa usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.

    How long does 2 Days Ethiopian Rift Valley Lakes Tour from Addis Ababa take?

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    Plan for about 48 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Addis Ababa is not rushed.

    Is 2 Days Ethiopian Rift Valley Lakes Tour from Addis Ababa worth it?

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    It holds an Outty Ranking of 65 out of 100, which we label "Solid Choice". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.9/5 across 8 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Addis Ababa, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule 2 Days Ethiopian Rift Valley Lakes Tour from Addis Ababa?

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    Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.

    Is 2 Days Ethiopian Rift Valley Lakes Tour from Addis Ababa suitable for kids and families?

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    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 48-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book 2 Days Ethiopian Rift Valley Lakes Tour from Addis Ababa?

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    Around 3 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Addis Ababa can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.

    What should I bring or wear?

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    Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Addis Ababa and add a light layer if any part of the 48-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does 2 Days Ethiopian Rift Valley Lakes Tour from Addis Ababa start and how do I get there?

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    The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Addis Ababa within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.

    What are the best things to do in Addis Ababa?

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    On Outty we rank every Addis Ababa experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Addis Ababa Authentic Private City Tour, Addis Ababa Guided City Tour With Airport & Hotel Pick Up, Full Day Tour of Addis Ababa with Hotel Pickup and Drop-off. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.

    When is the best time to visit Addis Ababa?

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    Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.

    How many days do you need in Addis Ababa?

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    Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.

    Do I book through Outty or through the operator?

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    Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.

    What is included in 2 Days Ethiopian Rift Valley Lakes Tour from Addis Ababa?

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    Included: Professional and experienced English speaking tour guide; Bottled water in the vehicle; Local family visits, Cultural Ethiopian Coffee Ceremony, onsite tour guides, and park scou; Surcharges on fuel; and Comfortable insured private Toyota Corolla (1 or 2 people) or Minivan with AC and seat bel. Not included: Entrance (admission) fees to places of visits; Accommodations; Meals; and And, any expense which are not mentioned in the "Included" list above. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Does 2 Days Ethiopian Rift Valley Lakes Tour from Addis Ababa include hotel pickup?

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    Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 123 listed pickup locations in and around Addis Ababa. You can also enter a custom pickup address when booking.

    What languages is 2 Days Ethiopian Rift Valley Lakes Tour from Addis Ababa offered in?

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    It is offered in German, English and French. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.

    Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for 2 Days Ethiopian Rift Valley Lakes Tour from Addis Ababa?

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    Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.

    Is 2 Days Ethiopian Rift Valley Lakes Tour from Addis Ababa wheelchair or stroller accessible?

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    The operator notes: Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap; and Not recommended for pregnant travelers. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.

    What happens to 2 Days Ethiopian Rift Valley Lakes Tour from Addis Ababa if the weather is bad?

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    It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Addis Ababa. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.

    What do travelers say about 2 Days Ethiopian Rift Valley Lakes Tour from Addis Ababa?

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    Across 8 reviews averaging 4.9 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling, organization. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

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