Shube in 1 Day for Friends - Scenic drive through the Ethiopian highlands
In Collaboration with Vowland Ethiopia tour . Updated on February 13, 2026.
Full-day guided trip from Addis Ababa to Wenchi Crater Lake (Shube). Drive through the Ethiopian highlands, descend to the crater rim by foot or horseback, take a boat to the island monastery, enjoy a picnic-style lunch, visit nearby hot springs, then return to Addis Ababa.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Vowland Ethiopia tour , inspired by the tour Day Trip Wenchi Crater Lake . Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Scenic drive through the Ethiopian highlands
- Guided hike or optional horseback descent to the crater lake
- Boat ride to the island Cherkos Monastery
- Picnic / traditional lunch by the lake and visit to hot springs
Itinerary
Day 1
Morning departure from Addis Ababa; full day at Wenchi Crater Lake with guided descent, boat visit to the island monastery, picnic lunch, hot springs visit, and return to Addis Ababa in the evening.
Pickup from hotel or Bole (Airport Road) — meet & briefing
Meet your driver/guide in Addis Ababa for vehicle boarding, route briefing and departure. Confirm any horseback preferences and final equipment checks.
Tips from local experts:
- Confirm your pickup point the night before and have your phone switched on for driver contact.
- Bring a small daypack with layers — Addis Ababa mornings can be cool while the vehicle warms quickly.
- If joining from the airport, be ready with baggage consolidated for a quick boarding process.
Drive from Addis Ababa to Wenchi Crater Lake
Scenic drive west from Addis Ababa through highland farmland and scenery en route to Wenchi (approx. 2.5–3.0 hours). Short comfort stops as needed.
Tips from local experts:
- Expect one or two short restroom/refreshment stops on the route — carry small change for roadside purchases.
- Windows offer good views; sit on the vehicle side facing the countryside for best photo opportunities.
- Motion-sensitive travellers should prepare medication in advance; roads are paved with occasional rough patches.
Arrive at the crater rim — viewpoint & short rest
Take in panoramic views over the crater rim, receive a safety briefing, and prepare for the descent to the lake.
Tips from local experts:
- Layer up — winds on the rim can be cooler than in the valley below.
- Keep valuables secured in your daypack; the viewpoint can be exposed and windy.
- Follow your guide's instructions at the rim for safe footing before the descent.
Guided descent to the lake — hike or optional horseback
Begin the guided downhill walk through forests and farmland to the lake; horseback riding is available as an alternative for the descent (fitness-dependent).
Tips from local experts:
- Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes with good grip for the steep sections of trail.
- If choosing horseback, tell the guide your riding experience level; rides are typically basic and guided.
- Carry sunscreen and a hat — shaded sections alternate with open stretches; keep plastic bags for trash to leave no trace.
Boat ride to the island (Cherkos Monastery) — short visit
Board a local boat to cross the crater lake and visit the island monastery (guided visit). Respect local customs and photography guidance at the monastery.
Tips from local experts:
- Wear non-slip footwear and remain seated when the boat is moving for safety.
- Ask your guide before photographing people or religious areas at the monastery.
- Keep a small waterproof bag for electronics and documents during the boat crossing.
Picnic or traditional lunch by the lake
Enjoy a picnic-style lunch or a prepared traditional meal at the lakeside. (Note: lunch is listed as excluded from the included items; plan accordingly.)
Tips from local experts:
- Bring any dietary-specific snacks or food as lunch is not included by default.
- Choose shaded seating where available; insect repellent can help during lakeside dining.
- Bring a reusable water bottle — bottled water is included but conserving is appreciated.
Return to the crater rim — hike or horseback
Ascend back up to the crater rim on foot or horseback. Short breaks as needed for rest and photos.
Tips from local experts:
- Pace yourself on the ascent — take short rests and hydrate regularly.
- If on horseback, follow the guide's instructions for mounting and dismounting on steep ground.
- Store any wet items in a dry bag for the drive back; temperatures at the rim can be cooler.
Visit nearby hot springs
Short visit to the local hot springs area near the crater rim (walkable from the rim area). Time for photos and light exploration.
Tips from local experts:
- Hot springs areas can have hot, fragile ground; stick to marked paths and follow your guide.
- Bring a light towel if you plan brief contact with the springs; footwear is advised at all times.
- Keep noise low to respect local visitors and the natural setting.
Drive back to Addis Ababa
Depart Wenchi and return to Addis Ababa with a short comfort stop en route; estimated arrival in the late afternoon or early evening.
Tips from local experts:
- Keep small personal items accessible for the return ride (phone, light jacket, water).
- Expect arrival traffic near Addis Ababa; allow patience for the final 30–45 minutes into the city.
- Confirm your desired drop-off (hotel or airport) with the guide before departure from the lake.
Drop-off & tour end — hotel or airport transfer
End of service: drop-off at your Addis Ababa hotel or Bole International Airport. Quick farewell and reminders about any personal items.
Tips from local experts:
- Check the vehicle and your seating area for all belongings before disembarking.
- If you need onward transfers, reconfirm pickup details with the driver before leaving.
- If your flight is same-day, ensure you have the necessary time buffer for airport check-in procedures.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 4 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Friends |
| Transfers | 4 |
| Restaurants | 1 |
| Total Activities | 6 |
| Total Places | 10 |
| Activities Types | Transfer, Attraction, Outdoor, Experience, Meal |