BY WEGAYEHU MULUNEH
Bishoftu, a hidden natural and manmade wonder nestled at the heart of Ethiopia. Just a short drive from the bustling capital, Addis Ababa, this enchanting town offers a serene escape into nature's embrace. Renowned for its breathtaking seven crater lakes, lush landscapes, and vibrant culture, Bishoftu is a paradise for both adventure enthusiasts and relaxation seekers.
Imagine waking up to the stunning sight of crystal-clear lakes surrounded by rolling hills and sturdily built luxury hotels, resorts and lodges. Bishoftu boasts a collection of seven crater lakes, each with its own unique charm. From the vast expanse of Lake Hora to the smaller, more intimate Lake Kuriftu, these natural wonders are major tourist destination sites found at the verge of the capital Addis Ababa.
Bishoftu offers a plethora of water sports activities. You can try your hand at boating, fishing, or even swimming in the refreshing waters. The lakes are also home to a diverse array of birdlife, making it a haven for birdwatchers.
Beyond the adventure, Bishoftu is a place to unwind and connect with nature. Picture yourself lounging on the shores of a lake and soaking up with the warm Ethiopian sun as the gentle lapping of the water and the cool breeze create a perfect ambiance for relaxation.
To complement the natural beauty of Bishoftu, the town offers a range of world-class accommodations. There are lots of hotels, lodges and resorts built circling the natural lakes with all different, unique and cultural accommodation for visitors. For instance, resorts like Nooraa, Asham Africa and Pyramid are built circling lake Bishoftu which are nearest to the main road of the town. On the other hand, resorts like Adulala, Pelcon, Lisak and Babugaya are found circling Lake Babugaya which are found at the heart of the city.
In an exclusive interview with EBC World, Dejene Bejiro, Head of Bishoftu Tourism Commission, said Bishotu is a city found at the outskirts of Addis Ababa, is the only city in Africa which accommodates seven crater lakes with stunning views, fresh air and world class hotel and resort tourism services.
According to Dejene, the hotels and resorts found in the city are controlled and inspected by the tourism commission thereby offering attention for the maximum safety and security of visitors.