Mount Wenchi Eco-Adventure & Community Visit
Active
12h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Escape the city bustle and immerse yourself in a pristine natural wonderland with Ecotravel Ethiopia's Mount Wenchi Eco-Adventure. This full-day excursion takes you to the breathtaking Wenchi Crater Lake, a UNESCO-nominated site, offering stunning landscapes, eco-friendly activities, and meaningful interactions with local communities benefiting from sustainable tourism initiatives. This is an authentic ecotourism experience designed to minimize impact and maximize cultural exchange.
Available options
Mount Wenchi Eco-Adventure & Community Visit
What's included
Local Guide fees
Bottled water
Boat fees
Entrance fee
Horse riding fees
Lunch
Escort guide from Addis Ababa
Air-conditioned vehicle
Scout fees
Fuel surcharge
Coffee and/or Tea
Detailed itinerary
1
Morning: Scenic Drive & Arrival at Wenchi
07:00 AM: Hotel Pick-up: Your Ecotravel Ethiopia guide and driver will pick you up from your hotel in Addis Ababa.
07:15 AM - 10:30 AM: Scenic Drive to Wonchi: Enjoy a picturesque drive through the Ethiopian highlands, witnessing traditional villages, rolling hills, and local life. Your guide will provide insights into the landscape and culture along the way.
10:30 AM: Arrival at Wonchi Crater Lake & Briefing: Arrive at the rim of the majestic Wenchi Crater Lake. Receive a briefing on the area's ecological significance and the community-based tourism project from a local community guide.
2
Midday: Eco-Friendly Exploration & Local Lunch
11:00 AM: Crater Descent & Activities: Embark on a gentle descent (either by foot or with a mule/horseback riding option available, managed by the local community) into the crater.
Boat Trip: Enjoy a serene boat trip across the pristine crater lake to a small island monastery or a scenic viewpoint.
Hot Spring/Waterfall: Explore the lush surroundings, including small hot springs or a cascading waterfall (depending on the chosen route).
01:00 PM: Community Lunch: Savor a delicious, freshly prepared lunch at a community-run lodge or guesthouse within the crater, featuring local, organic produce. This directly supports the local economy.
3
Afternoon: Community Interaction & Return Journey
02:30 PM: Local Community Visit/Interaction: Engage with members of the local community, learning about their way of life, agricultural practices, and how the ecotourism project directly benefits them. You'll witness genuine cultural exchange.
03:30 PM: Ascent from Crater & Departure: Begin your ascent from the crater and board your vehicle for the return journey to Addis Ababa.
06:30 PM - 07:00 PM: Hotel Drop-off: Arrive back in Addis Ababa and be dropped off at your hotel.
What's not included
Alcoholic Beverages
Gratuities
Accomodation
Dinner
Breakfast
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
FR
ES
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
5.0
8 reviews
5★
8
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
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
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Meeting point
our Ecotravel Ethiopia expert guide and driver will pick you up from your hotel or directly from Addis Ababa Bole International Airport (ideal for layovers).
About Addis Ababa
Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia, is a vibrant and historically rich city nestled in the highlands of the Horn of Africa. Known as the political, cultural, and economic heart of the country, it offers a unique blend of modern amenities and traditional Ethiopian culture.
Top Attractions
Entoto Mountain
A scenic mountain offering panoramic views of Addis Ababa and the surrounding highlands. It's a great spot for hiking and exploring the natural beauty of the region.
Nature
Half day to full day
Free (some attractions may have entry fees)
Addis Ababa Museum
A museum showcasing the history and cultural heritage of Ethiopia, including artifacts from the ancient kingdom of Aksum and the medieval Solomonic dynasty.
Historical
1-2 hours
Moderate (around 100 ETB or 3 USD)
Mercato
One of the largest open-air markets in Africa, offering a vast array of goods, from spices and textiles to handmade crafts and livestock.
Market
Half day
Free to enter, prices vary for purchases
St. George's Cathedral
A historic cathedral built in the 19th century, known for its beautiful stained-glass windows and intricate architecture.
Religious
30 minutes to 1 hour
Free (donations welcome)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Doro Wat
A spicy chicken stew made with berbere spice, onions, and hard-boiled eggs.
Main Dish
Contains meat and spices
Injera
A sourdough flatbread made from teff flour, used as both a utensil and a base for other dishes.
Staple
Vegan
Tibs
Sautéed cubes of meat, often served with vegetables and spices.
Main Dish
Contains meat and spices
Shiro
A chickpea or lentil-based stew, often spiced with berbere or mitmita.
Stew
Vegetarian and vegan options available
Popular Activities
Hiking in Entoto Mountain
Boating in Lake Bishoftu
Coffee ceremony
Spa and wellness treatments
Visiting museums and historical sites
Attending traditional music and dance performances
N/A
Participating in a traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony
Best Time to Visit
October to June
This period offers the best weather for sightseeing and outdoor activities, with clear skies and pleasant temperatures.
12°C to 26°C (54°F to 79°F)
54°F to 79°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Amharic
- Widely spoken: English, Oromo
- English: Moderately spoken in urban areas, limited in rural areas
Currency
Ethiopian Birr (ETB)
Time Zone
GMT+3
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution
Addis Ababa is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur. Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and at night.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and at night
- • Use reputable tour operators and guides
- • Avoid walking alone at night in less crowded areas
Getting there
By air
- Addis Ababa Bole International Airport • 8 km (5 miles) from city center
By bus
Addis Ababa Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Affordable but can be crowded. Tickets are purchased on board.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Ride
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Piazza District
Bole District
Mercato District
Day trips
Debre Berhan
130 km (80 miles) from Addis Ababa • Full day
A historic town known for its beautiful church and traditional Ethiopian architecture.
Lake Bishoftu
40 km (25 miles) from Addis Ababa • Half day to full day
A series of volcanic lakes known for their scenic beauty and birdlife.
Festivals
Timket (Epiphany) • January 19
Meskel (Finding of the True Cross) • September 27
Pro tips
- Learn a few basic phrases in Amharic to enhance your experience and connect with locals
- Hire a local guide for a more authentic and insightful experience, especially when visiting historical and cultural sites
- Try traditional Ethiopian coffee and participate in a coffee ceremony for a unique cultural experience
- Bargain politely when shopping in markets, as it is a common practice
- Be patient and flexible, as punctuality and schedules can be more relaxed in Ethiopia
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
