Day Trip From Addis Ababa To Mount Zuqualla
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Day Trip From Addis Ababa To Mount Zuqualla

Outty Ranking 59 5.0 · 4 traveler reviews9.5 hoursFrom $200
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Outty Ranking

59/100

Worth a Look. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

5.0/5

Based on 4 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Day Trip From Addis Ababa To Mount Zuqualla worth booking?

Day Trip From Addis Ababa To Mount Zuqualla is a 9.5-hour experience in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, from $200 per person. It scores 59 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Worth a Look”, based on a 5/5 rating across 4 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
59 / 100
Rating
5/5 (4)
Duration
9.5 hours
From
$200 per person

Drive south from Addis to Mount Zuqualla to visit the Zuqualla Abo Monastery. Situated at the top of the mountain, the Crater Lake which is dormant is surrounded by beautiful woods and considered to be holy, then to crater lakes of Debre Zeit. There you will enjoy the lovely crater lakes of Hora, Bisheftu and other, these are best place for flora and fauna, birds’ life and spectacular scenery as you make walk around crater lakes, a number of lodge and resorts are available on the lakes shore.

What you get

    About this experience

    Drive south from Addis to Mount Zuqualla to visit the Zuqualla Abo Monastery. Situated at the top of the mountain, the Crater Lake which is dormant is surrounded by beautiful woods and considered to be holy, then to crater lakes of Debre Zeit. There you will enjoy the lovely crater lakes of Hora, Bisheftu and other, these are best place for flora and fauna, birds’ life and spectacular scenery as you make walk around crater lakes, a number of lodge and resorts are available on the lakes shore.

    What's included

    Included

    • Lunch
    • Bottled water
    • Blue Badge Guide
    • In-vehicle air conditioning
    • Tea and coffee
    • Entrance fee
    • Goverment taxes

    Not included

    • Gratuities

    What you'll see and do

    1. Early in the morning we drive south from Addis Ababa to Debre Zeit and then to the feet of the extinct volcano Mount Zuqualla. To visit the Zuqualla Monastery, founded in the 4th century and situated on the top of the mountain, we have to hike for about 4 hours and gain a height difference of about 900 m. We advise being in good physical condition to do this hike. Situated at the top of the mountain at almost 3,000 m sea level, there is also a lake surrounded by a beautiful forest which is considered to be holy. Here we can enjoy the wildlife, such as the Colobus monkeys and the endemic Menelik’s bushbuck, as well as birds, including the endemic Ethiopian oriole and Abyssinian woodpecker.

      540 minutes here

    2. Bishoftu

      Lake Bishoftu, which lies immediately south of the town centre, is the closest to the rest of the town. The lake is accessible via a steep cattle path, and is often frequented by tourists and locals alike, particularly during the warm summer months, where they have been known to swim within its water. Lying one kilometre to the north of Bishoftu, Hora lake is the largest of the five, and is one of the most travelled with boats often seen upon the lake. For this reason, it is not advisable to swim far into its depths, however there are a number of jetties along its shore with boats and captains for hire.

      30 minutes here

    Where it starts and ends

    Hotel pickup

    Pickup is included for all travelers. Pickup begins about 30 minutes before departure.

    Before you book

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

    Know before you go

    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

    Photos

    Day Trip From Addis Ababa To Mount Zuqualla, photo 2

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 4 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    The guide

    3 mentions

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

    Photo opportunities

    3 mentions

    The views and photo stops come up again and again.

    Organization

    3 mentions

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

    Knowledge and storytelling

    2 mentions

    Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.

    Physical effort

    2 mentions

    Expect real walking or climbing: reviewers mention the effort involved.

    Pace and timing

    2 mentions

    Several reviewers comment on how the schedule is paced.

    Traveler reviews

    4 verified traveler reviews for Day Trip From Addis Ababa To Mount Zuqualla. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    4
    4 star
    0
    3 star
    0
    2 star
    0
    1 star
    0
    Sort
    862mart_nh · September 2026

    A Quiet Mountain Escape With Views Worth the Climb

    I booked the Day Trip from Addis Ababa to Mount Zuqualla with Danakil Depression Tours, and it was a refreshing change from the pace of Addis Ababa. I enjoyed the journey through the countryside and especially liked seeing the landscape gradually change as we approached the mountain. The climb and time outdoors gave the day a real sense of adventure, while the peaceful surroundings made it easy to slow down and enjoy the experience. Traveling alone, I appreciated having a helpful guide who made the trip straightforward and shared interesting information about the area along the way. The scenery from higher up was my favorite part, and I took plenty of photos before heading back to Addis. Danakil Depression Tours organized everything smoothly, making this a comfortable and enjoyable day trip for anyone who wants some fresh air, beautiful scenery, and a break from the city.

    via Tripadvisor

    carlosrV4007DF · July 2026

    A Wonderful Family Escape to Mount Zuqualla with Stunning Views and Peaceful Nature

    Our family booked the Day Trip from Addis Ababa to Mount Zuqualla with Danakil Depression Tours, and it was the perfect getaway from the city. The drive was comfortable, and the beautiful scenery along the way made the journey just as enjoyable as the destination. Reaching Mount Zuqualla, we loved exploring the peaceful surroundings, taking in the breathtaking views, and visiting the historic monastery at the summit. Our guide was friendly, knowledgeable, and made the experience engaging by sharing fascinating stories about the mountain's history, culture, and wildlife. Everything was well organized, allowing us to relax and enjoy quality family time. We highly recommend Danakil Depression Tours to anyone looking for a memorable day trip filled with nature, history, and incredible scenery.

    Response from the operator: Thank you for leaving us a 5* review! We are thrilled that you loved your experience; our staff will definitely be happy to read what you wrote. We put customer experience and satisfaction as our priority, and your review reaffirms the hard work we put in every day. So, thanks for your kind words and we look forward to seeing you again. Managing director Yigzaw/Mickey

    via Tripadvisor

    A9347ATdiegor · July 2026

    A Refreshing Day Trip That Showed Me a Different Side of Ethiopia

    I booked the Day Trip From Addis Ababa To Mount Zuqualla with Danakil Depression Tours, and it turned out to be one of the most peaceful experiences of my visit to Ethiopia. The drive from Addis Ababa was comfortable, and the scenery became more beautiful as we approached Mount Zuqualla. Hiking through the forest, enjoying the fresh mountain air, and visiting the historic monastery at the summit made the trip both relaxing and rewarding. My guide was knowledgeable and shared interesting stories about the mountain's history, wildlife, and cultural importance. The entire day was well organized, and I never felt rushed. If you're looking to escape the city and enjoy nature, I highly recommend Danakil Depression Tours for this unforgettable excursion.

    Response from the operator: Thank you for sharing your experience! We're delighted to hear that you had a wonderful time traveling with Danakil Depression Tours. We appreciate your kind words and look forward to hosting you on more fantastic journeys in the future!

    via Tripadvisor

    josefr466 · October 2023

    highly recommended

    Th day trip to Zequlla was a nice and memorable It's an amazing tour company,they take care of their clients so well,they work so diligently to give their customers the best experience, their service is amazing,they should be the first choice for every one that wants to come to Ethiopia ! Thank you Mickey Danakil Depression Tours owner

    Response from the operator: Dear Josef We Pride ourselves on providing the best possible service and we are glad that this commitment was reflected in your travel with us. Look forward to welcoming back for the future travels. We aim to delight our customers and we are so pleased to serve customers like you. Thank you Yigzaw /Mickey Managing Director

    via Tripadvisor

    Good to know

    Duration
    9.5 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
    1
    Verdict
    Worth a Look

    Who runs this experience

    Operated by Danakil Depression Tours, who run 7 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 66.3.

    See everything Danakil Depression Tours runs

    Why this scores 59

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

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)93
    Review evidence (18% weight)30
    Booking momentum (14% weight)16
    Value for money (12% weight)34
    Listing quality (10% weight)76
    Local standing (8% weight)52
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    Day Trip From Addis Ababa To Mount Zuqualla: questions travelers ask

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

    How much does Day Trip From Addis Ababa To Mount Zuqualla cost?

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    Prices start at $200 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 Day Trip From Addis Ababa To Mount Zuqualla take?

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    Plan for about 9.5 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 Day Trip From Addis Ababa To Mount Zuqualla worth it?

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    It holds an Outty Ranking of 59 out of 100, which we label "Worth a Look". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 4 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 Day Trip From Addis Ababa To Mount Zuqualla?

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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 Day Trip From Addis Ababa To Mount Zuqualla suitable for kids and families?

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    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 9.5-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book Day Trip From Addis Ababa To Mount Zuqualla?

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    Around 1 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 9.5-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does Day Trip From Addis Ababa To Mount Zuqualla 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 Day Trip From Addis Ababa To Mount Zuqualla?

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    Included: Lunch; Bottled water; Blue Badge Guide; In-vehicle air conditioning; and Tea and coffee. Not included: Gratuities. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Does Day Trip From Addis Ababa To Mount Zuqualla include hotel pickup?

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    Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 297 listed pickup locations in and around Addis Ababa. Be ready about 30 minutes before the start time. You can also enter a custom pickup address when booking.

    What languages is Day Trip From Addis Ababa To Mount Zuqualla offered in?

    +

    It runs in English. 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 Day Trip From Addis Ababa To Mount Zuqualla?

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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.

    What happens to Day Trip From Addis Ababa To Mount Zuqualla 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 Day Trip From Addis Ababa To Mount Zuqualla?

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    Across 4 reviews averaging 5.0 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, photo opportunities, organization. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works. One thing to know: Expect real walking or climbing: reviewers mention the effort involved.

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