Travel Guide Awassa

Population 170,000. Altitude 1,700 m. Distance from Addis Ababa 280 km. Situated 15 km south of Shashemene, the town of Awassa lies on the eastern shore of a 129 km2 lake, providing a relaxing stopover. Although out of the way, the capital of the former Sidamo province is now the capital of the "Nations, Nationalities and Peoples of the South" federal region. With its thousands of bajaj in the streets, it is the largest city on the Ethiopian Rift. Its main attraction is its beautiful lake. Curiously, Awassa seems to escape the craze of faranji (foreigners), who prefer historic towns or the Omo Valley. Instead, it attracts wealthy residents of the capital and expatriates in search of a bit of nature and greenery. When strolling along the shores of the lake, contacts are courteous and friendly. It's one of the country's most pleasant cities.