Addis Ababa – Wonchi Crater Lake

Addis Ababa:

The name of this sprawling capital city means “New Flower.” Founded by Emperor Menelik in 1887 and with a population of about 4 million, Addis Ababa is Africa’s diplomatic capital with the headquarters for the Organization of African Unity located here. Impressive monuments of colonial architecture are scattered among stretches of sun-bleached shacks. Drive through “Mercato” the largest open market on the continent. Make interesting stops that include the National Museum, the Ethnological Museum and the Ba’ata Church known as Menelik Mausoleum. Enjoy souvenir shopping and visits to special art galleries. Ethiopian Rift Valley Safaris patronizes certain local charities and would provide guests with opportunities to make purchases supporting these. Hotel accommodation ranges from tourist class to luxury collection and varieties of restaurants serve delectable dishes from around the world.

Addis Alem Mariam Church & Wonchi Crater Lake:

The Addis Alem Mariam Church, originally built as Menelik’s palace and known for it’s murals. The church owns many important relics and artifacts bequeathed to it by the Emperor which are on display in the Church museum. Drive 35 kms west of Addis to visit the Addis Alem Mariam Church. Proceed driving to Ambo and then to the village of Wonchi where you will enjoy a trek down to the shore of the crater lake. By boat, reach an interesting church found on the island. Wenchi Crater Lake is a nice choice for spending your weekend vacation. Wenchi Crater Lake is 155 km west of Addis Ababa, between Ambo and Weliso. An extinct volcano, the top of which is 3380 meters above sea level, is a crater that contains a large lake, hot mineral springs, waterfalls, beautiful valleys and farmland. There is an old monastery with a church situated on one of the lake islands.