Natural Attraction in Sidama

Tourism

Natural Attraction in Sidama

The magnificent natural scenery & hot spring water in the Sidama zone include: Wondo Genet, Burqito Gidabo, etc.  Like wise the zone is blessed with spectacular water falls; Logita Fall Sidama 120km from Hawassa with torrential sound and Bonora Fall Sidama 135km from Hawassa cataract & blue winged birds

There are two areas proposed as protected wildlife reserve that are now being delimited.

Garamba Mountain is the highest point in the zone. It is located at a distance of 363 km from Addis Ababa, 84 km distance from Hawassa, and also only 14 km away from Yaye (District main town).

The height of the mountain is between 2800m and 3360m. The mountain is surrounded by bamboo forest; and it is convenient for tourists who have mountain trekking hobby. The mountain is home for various wildlife and bird species. There is an attractive topography round the foot of the mountain. One can watch Bale Mountains from here.

Loka-abaya Reserved (protected) Area: This is a tropical place and with an area of 500 km². The land is bordered with Lake Abbaya in the South, with BilateRiver in the east, and with Boricha district (Woreda) and Loka Abbaya district in the north and east, respectively. It is located at distances of 338 km, 65 km and 10k m from Addis Ababa, Hawassa and Hantate the District town, respectively. There are many wildlife and bird species in the area. The hospitality of the community living around there is very pleasing.

Its natural scenery is breathtaking and gives tranquility for soul. The zone is an ideal place for eco-tourism development. In the zone, there are some exemplary works on this regards. Like Aregash Lodge with its natural scenery and a convergence of modern accommodation with typical Sidaman tukul, art and design; Logita Fall Lodge designed and constructed in traditional Sidama hut and Wondo Genet is a beautiful flowering, forested district, filled with lush vegetation and varied wildlife. Natural hot springs are the central attraction. A small resort has been built with naturally filled pools for adults and children in a good hotel. Wondo Genet is one of the old resort s in the region with swimming pool and hot spring water.   

Mt,Tabor

Tabor Mountain has majestic presence in the area and is dominating Hawassa city. This picturesque hill is perfect for a walk in the afternoon or early morning, and offers beautiful panoramic views across the whole area. Said to resemble Tabor Mountain inIsrael, it sweeps dramatically down to the lakeshore, mirroring the ridge of the mountain on the opposite side of the water.  

The Lakes

The main street of Hawassa sweeps down from the beautiful St Gabriel Church to theshore of Lake Hawassa. The birdlife here is one of the best in Ethiopia, and is also home to a large community of hippos. The lake side park of Amora Gedel has very pretty views across the lake to the mountains beyond, and is close to the early morning market where you can pick up a tasty fish for lunch. Boats can be hired to visit the hippos, organized by a local co-operative; it is a relaxing way to spend the afternoon after the heat of the midday sun. Some hotels are under construction but in the meantime Wabe Shebelle 2 is perfect for a fresh drink as the sun sets.

http://www.visitsidama.com/tourism.html