Awasa, also spelled Hawassa, is a lakeside city in Ethiopia's Southern Nations region, where it serves as the regional capital. It sits on the shore of Lake Awasa, and the setting is the first thing many visitors come for: open water, green surroundings and a slower pace than in the country's larger cities.
What to see and do
- The lake shore offers the city's most memorable views, especially in the early morning and late afternoon.
- The fish markets are a lively part of local life, where the day's catch from the lake is sold.
- The city itself is easy to explore on foot around its central streets and lakeside areas.
Planning a visit
Awasa works well as a stop for a relaxed day or two, whether you are travelling through southern Ethiopia or building a trip around the region's landscapes and communities. Because it is the regional capital, it has the services a visitor might need, and it makes a calm base compared with busier destinations. Check current transport and visiting arrangements before you set out, as these can change.