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How to Get to Awasa

How to Get to Awasa

Awasa Sidama Region, Ethiopia Travel Guide

Air Travel

Airports & Routes

Addis Ababa Bole International Airport (ADD) serves as Ethiopia's main international gateway. Hawassa Airport (HWC) is the domestic airport near Awasa.

Flight Details

  • Ethiopian Airlines dominates international and domestic routes.
  • Regular flights connect Addis Ababa (ADD) and Hawassa (HWC).
  • No direct international flights to Hawassa Airport (HWC).

Airport Facilities & Transfers

ADD offers duty-free, restaurants, lounges, currency exchange, and SIM card purchase. HWC is a smaller domestic airport with basic facilities.

Getting to Your Destination

  • From ADD to The Capital of ethiopia: official yellow taxis, ride-hailing (RIDE/Feres).
  • From ADD to The Capital of ethiopia: Hotel transport available.
  • From HWC to Awasa: Taxis and hotel shuttles.

Flight Savings

Inquire about discounted rates for domestic flights to Hawassa when booking international with Ethiopian Airlines. Check Dollar Flight Club for deals.

Price Fluctuations

Domestic flight prices vary by demand and booking time. Check Skyscanner for options. Book in advance for better rates.

Arrival Time

Arrive at ADD ARRIVE 3 hours early for international flights; 1-2 hours before domestic flights at HWC.

Transfer Options from HWC

Airport to Accommodation

  • Taxis are available at Hawassa Airport (HWC).
  • Hotel shuttles can be pre-arranged for transfers.
  • Bajajs (auto-rickshaws) may be found outside the airport for shorter distances.
  • A short walk might be needed to find Bajajs.

ADD to Addis Ababa

  • Official yellow taxis are ready at ADD.
  • Ride-hailing apps like RIDE or Feres are options.
  • Consider hotel shuttles pre-booked with your accommodation.
  • Know your hotel address for taxi drivers.

Airline Advisory

Discounted Domestic Flights

While reserving international flights with Ethiopian Airlines, inquire about discounted rates for linking domestic flights to Hawassa.

Simplified Travel

Booking domestic flights with your international carrier often simplifies travel arrangements and saves money.

Confirmation

Always confirm your flight schedule the day before departure, as local conditions can cause changes.

Land Transportation

Long-Distance Bus Options

Awasa is well-connected by long-distance buses from Addis Ababa and other major cities.

Popular Routes & Companies

  • Addis Ababa to Awasa: 5-7 hour journey.
  • Reputable companies include Sky Bus and Selam Bus.
  • Obtain tickets at bus stations in advance or on travel day.

Self-Driving Considerations

Self-driving is not generally recommended for most tourists in Ethiopia because of difficult conditions.

Driving Challenges

  • Road conditions outside main arteries can be challenging.
  • Signage is often poor, and regional driving customs differ.
  • An International Driving Permit (IDP) is legally needed.

Road Conditions & Safety

The main road between The Capital of ethiopia and Awasa is generally paved. Secondary roads can be unpaved and muddy.

Safety Measures

  • Driving at night is highly discouraged due to hazards.
  • Traffic accidents are common; exercise caution.
  • Hiring a car with a local driver is a more protected and practical option.

Other Land Transport

Awasa does not have train connections; the Ethio-Djibouti Railway does not pass through.

Border Crossings

  • Border crossing information is not applicable to Awasa, an inland city.
  • Ethiopia shares land borders with several countries.
  • These crossings are not typically part of a tourist itinerary to Awasa.

Bus Travel Safety

  • Arrive at the bus station early to secure your seat.
  • Store luggage carefully; keep valuables with you on the bus.
  • During holidays or peak seasons, booking ahead is advisable.
  • Local public buses operate, but private companies offer better services for tourists.
  • Buses depart from Addis Ababa's Meskel Square space for southern routes.
  • Overland travel can be a more immersive experience, despite being slower.

Sea/River Arrivals

Water Transportation to Awasa

Awasa is an inland city. Sea or river arrivals for intercity travel are not applicable.

No Ferry Services

  • No ferry services or cruise ports for travel to Awasa.
  • Ethiopia’s major rivers are not navigable for passenger services to Awasa.
  • Immigration procedures at seaports are not relevant.

Local Lake Boat Services

Lake Awasa offers local boat services for leisure and transport.

Lake Exploration

  • Small, motorized boats provide leisure rides and birdwatching.
  • Transportation to the Awasa Fish Market is available.
  • Negotiate fares directly with boat operators before your trip.

Scenic Views

Enjoy boat trips on Lake Awasa for an unique perspective of the city and its abundant birdlife. Experience serene sunrises on the water.

Local Interaction

Interact with area fishermen at the Awasa Fish Market, a bustling hub of daily recreation and fresh catch.

Easy Connections

Local boat services on Lake Awasa connect to various points along the shoreline, where you can then use Bajajs or taxis for further travel.

Departure Information

Exit Fees & Taxes

Departure taxes or exit fees for travelers departing Ethiopia by air from Addis Ababa Bole International Airport are usually included in your airfare.

Confirmation

  • Confirm with your airline or travel agent if you have concerns about fees.
  • These charges are typically part of your ticket cost.
  • No specific departure fees are usually paid separately at the airport.

Departure Timing

Allow ample time for check-in, security screening, and immigration procedures.

Recommendations

  • International flights from ADD: arrive at least 3 hours prior.
  • Domestic flights from HWC: arrive at least 1-2 hours prior.
  • Long-distance buses: arrive 30-60 minutes prior to departure.

Airport & Station Facilities

ADD International

Offers comprehensive facilities: duty-free shops, lounges, various food and beverage options.

HWC Domestic

Provides basic facilities: waiting area and check-in counters, minimal amenities.

Bus Stations

Basic waiting areas and small kiosks for snacks and drinks.

Reconfirm & Depart

Reconfirm your flight or bus schedule the day before departure. Local circumstances or holiday schedules can sometimes lead to unexpected changes.

How to Get to Awasa. Flights, Transportation, Airlines