"Lewi Resort gave us an unforgettable memory! From the moment we arrived, the staff greeted us warmly and made us feel right at home. The rooms were spotless, cozy, and offered a stunning view of the lake. The food was beyond delicious—fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented. The boat ride across the lake was peaceful and magical, with breathtaking scenery all around. Every detail of our stay was perfectly arranged. Whether relaxing by the water or enjoying the incredible meals, every moment...
"The hotel claimed they didn't have a room available for us, despite our reservation. As a result, we were forced to spend the entire night in the car, which was extremely uncomfortable and inconvenient."
"Its a great hotel and the internet was really good as its one thing very important as a remote digital nomad i required. The rooms are clean and well kept with lovely staff. "
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Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
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Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Lake Awasa during your travels in Awassa. Amble around the area's lakeside or experience its museums.
Idyllic lakeside retreat with vibrant local culture in Awassa
Awassa, located in the Sīdama region of Ethiopia, offers a distinctive geographic landscape that is sure to captivate tourists. The city is blessed with a beautiful lake, providing opportunities for boating and wildlife spotting. Nature enthusiasts can explore the surrounding areas on biking tours, immersing themselves in the stunning scenery. Awassa is also home to a renowned university and boasts a friendly local population. Visitors can indulge in delicious dining experiences and explore museums showcasing the rich history and culture of the region. With a range of nearby hotels and a vibrant city center, Awassa is the perfect destination for a memorable holiday.
Top reasons to visit Awassa
Scenic Lake Awassa: Enjoy stunning views and outdoor activities such as birdwatching and tranquil boat rides on the picturesque shores of Lake Awassa.
Lively Fish Market: Immerse yourself in local culture by visiting the bustling fish market, a vibrant hub of daily life in Awassa.
Adventurous Bale Mountains: Embark on exhilarating hikes in the nearby Bale Mountains, perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers.
Comfortable Accommodations: Choose from a variety of lodgings that cater to all visitors, ensuring a comfortable stay.
Rich Cultural Experiences: Explore modern educational institutions and engage with the friendly local community for a deeper understanding of Ethiopian culture.
Find your hotel in Awassa
When visiting Awassa, you'll find a variety of hotel accommodations to suit your needs. From budget-friendly options to luxurious resorts, there's something for everyone in this vibrant city.
Lewi Resort and Spa - This 3.5-star hotel is known for its stunning location by the lake, offering opportunities for wildlife sightings and activities such as boating and biking. It is also conveniently close to the university, beach, and museums, making it a popular choice.
Heron Hotel - With a 3.0-star rating, Heron Hotel also boasts a beautiful lakeside setting. Guests can enjoy various outdoor activities and explore the vibrant city of Awassa. Its friendly staff and dining options make it a favorite among visitors.
Lewi Hotel Piazza - Another 3.5-star hotel, Lewi Hotel Piazza offers a range of amenities and features, including proximity to the lake and access to boating, biking, and tours. Its location near the university, beach, and museums adds to its appeal.
Staying in Awassa allows you to experience the natural beauty of the lake, engage in outdoor activities, and explore the rich cultural scene. With a variety of hotels to choose from, you'll find the perfect accommodation to enhance your holiday in Awassa.
Where to stay in Awassa
Awassa, a charming city in Sīdama, offers a delightful blend of scenic beauty and outdoor adventures. Wander along the stunning shores of Lake Awassa, where you can indulge in birdwatching or take a peaceful boat ride. Discover the vibrant local culture at the bustling fish market, or explore the nearby Bale Mountains for exhilarating hikes. With its friendly atmosphere and romantic settings, Awassa is a perfect destination for those seeking both adventure and relaxation.
Shashamane: Nestled approximately 24.1km from Awassa, Shashamane offers a unique cultural experience rooted in its Rastafarian heritage. The city is vibrant, with lively markets and welcoming locals. Visitors can explore the rich history and enjoy local cuisine while experiencing the rhythmic pulse of daily life. The best times to visit are during the peak months of January and July to August, when the atmosphere is particularly festive. Whether you're wandering through the streets or engaging with the community, Shashamane promises unforgettable moments and adventures.
Experience the top activities and must-see sights in Awassa
Awassa, located in Sīdama, Ethiopia, offers a myriad of experiences for a cheap holiday. Immerse yourself in the beauty of Lake Awasa, where you can enjoy boating, biking, and wildlife sightings. Visit Hawassa University, a modern college university with a picturesque backdrop of the lake. Explore the Fish Market, where you can witness the local fishing culture and indulge in fresh seafood. Awassa also boasts friendly locals, vibrant dining options, and fascinating museums. Don't miss the chance to discover the Abidjatta-Shalla National Park, home to diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes. Whether it's relaxing on the beach or embarking on exciting tours, Awassa offers a memorable holiday experience.
Lake Awasa: Experience the tranquil beauty of this lake, surrounded by lush greenery and teeming with diverse wildlife. Enjoy a peaceful boat ride or take a leisurely bike ride along the lakeshore.
Hawassa University: Explore this modern college university, situated by the lake, and marvel at its stunning architecture and serene atmosphere.
Fish Market: Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the local fishing culture, where you can witness the bustling market and indulge in fresh seafood delicacies.
How to find great deals and cheap hotels in Awassa
Check out the Expedia website for hotel deals in Awassa. You can find a variety of options that suit your budget and preferences.
Consider staying in a guesthouse or bed and breakfast instead of a hotel. These accommodations are often more affordable and offer a unique experience.
Look for hotels that offer discounts for longer stays. This can help you save money if you plan to stay in Awassa for an extended period.
Take advantage of off-peak travel times. Prices for flights and hotels may be lower during certain months, so consider visiting Awassa during these times to save on travel expenses.
Use public transportation or rent a bike to get around Awassa. This can be a cost-effective way to explore the city and its attractions.
Take advantage of the lake and its activities. Enjoy boating, wildlife spotting, and biking around the lake, all of which are budget-friendly options for entertainment in Awassa.
Engage with the friendly locals who can provide you with tips and recommendations for affordable dining options in the city.
Visit the museums in Awassa, which often offer free or discounted admission. This is a great way to learn about the culture and history of the city without breaking the bank.
Don't forget to check out the university in Awassa, which may offer free or low-cost cultural events and activities for visitors to enjoy.
Discover the flavours of Awassa
Awassa offers a delightful culinary experience with its local cuisine and unique dishes. From traditional African delicacies to international flavours, there is something to satisfy every palate. One highlight is Gored Gored, an authentic African restaurant in Awassa, known for its flavourful meat dishes. Another popular option is Sholla Grill Restaurant, which also specializes in African cuisine and offers a cozy ambiance. If you're in the mood for a delicious breakfast, Yemra Cafe is a great choice. With its diverse culinary styles and charming eateries, Awassa promises a memorable dining experience.
When it comes to dining in Awassa, these restaurants showcase the rich culinary heritage of the region. Gored Gored offers a variety of African dishes, such as injera with spicy stews and grilled meats. Sholla Grill Restaurant focuses on grilled specialties and traditional African flavours. At Yemra Cafe, you can enjoy a delightful breakfast with options like Ethiopian coffee and freshly baked pastries. Whether you're a fan of African cuisine or looking to explore new flavours, these restaurants in Awassa are sure to leave you satisfied.
Best time to go to Awassa
Awassa boasts a year-around average temperature of 16.7°C, peaking at 18.3°C in April, its warmest month, and dipping to an average low of 14.7°C in December, the coolest. Rainfall averages at 108.8mm annually, with August seeing the heaviest showers and December being the driest month.
Month
Temperature (Celcius)
Rainfall (mm)
January
15.9
34.3
February
17.2
61.0
March
18.0
101.6
April
18.3
134.6
May
18.2
134.6
June
17.1
165.1
July
16.1
177.8
August
16.2
205.7
September
16.7
152.4
October
16.4
90.2
November
15.3
27.9
December
14.7
20.3
The nearest major airports for your trip to Awassa
Flying into Awassa (AWA) is convenient, with the airport situated approximately 8.0km from the city centre. Notable accommodations nearby include the Haile Resort Hawassa, a 4-star resort located 9.7km from the airport, offering various transportation services such as an airport shuttle upon request and a 24-hour airport transfer option. The Central Hawassa Hotel, also a 4-star establishment, is similarly positioned at 9.7km from the airport. Additionally, the Lewi Resort and Spa, a comfortable 3.5-star hotel, lies 8.0km away and provides free airport transportation. These hotels ensure seamless access to Awassa, making your travel experience enjoyable and hassle-free.
The Awassa info point: What you need to know
Category
Details
Location
Awassa, Sīdama, Ethiopia
What is Awassa known for?
Lake Awassa, Fish Market, Coffee Plantations
Most popular month?
November to February
Length of Stay
3-5 days
Weather
Mild to warm year-round, with occasional rain
Don't miss
Visit Lake Awassa, Explore the Fish Market, Take a Coffee Plantation Tour
Cuisine
Traditional Ethiopian food, Fresh fish dishes
Where to go
Lake Awassa, Hawassa University Botanical Garden, St. Gabriel Church
If I need to cancel my hotel reservation in Awassa, will I receive a refund?
Yes! You'll find that most hotel room reservations are refundable provided that you cancel before the hotel’s cancellation deadline, which is often 24 or 48 hours before the scheduled arrival. If your reservation is non-refundable, you might be able to still cancel and be given a refund within a 24-hour period of booking. Filter your search by fully refundable to find flexible hotel deals in Awassa.
Visitors can enjoy all that Awassa has to offer, including the lake views, local tours and university setting. Tourists can also enjoy the city's restaurants and museums. In Awassa, there are 18 hotels and other accommodation options to choose from. Find out more about Awassa.
The hottest months are usually March and February, with an average temperature of 20°C, while the coldest months are December and November, with an average of 18°C. The rainiest months in Awassa are October, May, April and September, with each month seeing an average of 216 mm of rainfall.
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