Hawassa

Hawassa sits on the eastern shore of the lake of the same name and is one of the more pleasant Ethiopian cities to spend a day in: a lakeside promenade under fig trees, wide streets, a warm climate and a relaxed pace. The fish market on the shore starts before dawn, when boats land tilapia and catfish and the fish are gutted and fried on the spot; marabou storks, pelicans and kites crowd the cleaning tables waiting for scraps, and the mix of birds, boats and traders makes it the thing to see here. Elsewhere, the lakeside park has hippos in the reeds, and Amora Gedel is the walking and viewing spot. The city is the gateway to the south, and the road on leads to Arba Minch and the Omo.

What you actually see

• The dawn fish market - boats landing, fish cleaned and fried on the shore.
• Marabous and pelicans - birds crowding the cleaning tables for scraps.
• The lakeside promenade - the walking route under fig trees.
• Hippos - animals in the reeds along the shore.

When to go

October to March for the driest weather. The fish market runs from before dawn to mid-morning and is the reason to be up early. The lakeside is pleasant year round; the rains fall mainly from June to September.

Honest expectations

The fish market is a working place, wet and messy, and photography of traders needs asking. Marabou storks are large, aggressive scavengers and not to be approached. Hippos are dangerous and the shore should be treated accordingly after dark. Traffic in the city is heavy.

Nearby

Wondo Genet lies north; Arba Minch is southwest.