About This Place

Wonchi Forest is a breathtaking Afro-alpine ecosystem located within the caldera of an extinct volcano, about 155 kilometers west of Addis Ababa. Situated at an elevation of over 3,000 meters, the lush forest drapes over steep slopes that surround a stunning turquoise crater lake, creating a landscape of misty waterfalls and natural hot springs. This verdant sanctuary is home to indigenous trees and diverse wildlife like Colobus monkeys, while also housing the ancient Kirkos Monastery on a peaceful island in the lake. As a premier destination for community-based eco-tourism, Wonchi Forest offers a unique blend of rugged trekking trails, horseback riding, and deep cultural heritage, making it one of the most serene and scenic highland escapes in Ethiopia.