Sodere is a hot-springs resort and small town in the Rift Valley, about 120 kilometres south-east of Addis Ababa and 25 kilometres south of Adama (Nazret), in the Misraq Shewa Zone of the Oromia Region. It stands at about 1,466 metres above sea level on the bank of the Awash River, among shady trees. For decades it has been a weekend escape for people from the capital, and it makes an easy day trip or a stop on the way to Awash National Park, the Rift Valley lakes or the east. This page explains what is there and how to plan a visit.
The resort
The government developed the Sodere resort, and it was in operation by 1963. It is built around natural hot springs, which have been popular for their reputed therapeutic effects. The main attraction is a large swimming pool, reportedly the size of an Olympic pool, fed by spring water. There are also a restaurant, a hotel and a conference centre. During the week the grounds are often quiet, and on weekends they fill with families and groups from Addis Ababa.
Sodere also has a place in recent history. In the 1990s it hosted several rounds of peace talks between factions in the Somali civil war.
The setting
The Awash River is one of Ethiopia’s main rivers, flowing from the highlands near Addis Ababa through the Rift Valley and the Afar lowlands, where it ends in a chain of salty lakes without reaching the sea. At Sodere the river runs through a green strip of forest in a landscape that is otherwise dry, which is why the place feels like an oasis. The hot springs come from the geothermal heat of the Rift Valley, the same geology that gives the area its crater lakes, hot springs and earthquakes. See Lake Langano for more on the rift.
Wildlife
The resort stands in thick, shady vegetation, and vervet monkeys live in the grounds. Crocodiles and, less often, hippos live in the nearby Awash River, so keep away from the river bank, and do not swim in the river. Birdlife is rich in the trees and along the water.
Things to do
- Soak and swim. The spring-fed pool is the main reason to come.
- Walk in the grounds and watch the monkeys and birds. Do not feed the monkeys, because they can be aggressive.
- Relax and eat at the restaurant, and stay overnight if you want a quiet evening in the Rift Valley.
- Visit Adama. The nearby city has restaurants, markets and hotels.
Tips for a good visit
- Go on a weekday if you want the pool and the grounds to yourself.
- Check what is open before you travel. Facilities in government-developed resorts can change, and opening arrangements are best confirmed with the hotel or the resort.
- Keep your belongings close, especially food, because the monkeys will take bags and snacks.
- Take a break from the sun. The Rift Valley can be hot, and a long soak in warm water adds to the heat.
- Combine it with a longer trip. Many visitors stop here on the way to Awash National Park, and the road continues towards Dire Dawa and Harar. See Dire Dawa and Harar.
Getting there
Sodere lies off the main highway from Addis Ababa towards Adama and the east. Most visitors go by hired car with a driver, in about two to three hours depending on traffic, or by a minibus to Adama and then a local connection. Check current road conditions and opening arrangements with your hotel before you travel.
When to go
The Rift Valley is warm, and midday can be hot. The dry months, from October to February, are the most comfortable. Weekdays are quieter, and weekends and holidays are busy. See when to visit.
What to bring
- A swimsuit, a towel and sunscreen.
- Insect repellent, a hat and water.
- Cash in birr. See using foreign cards and ATMs.
- Advice from your doctor on malaria for the Rift Valley. See health and medical care.
Nearby places
Sodere sits on the Awash River in the Rift Valley. Other easy breaks from the capital are the crater lakes of Bishoftu and Lake Langano, and further east lies Awash National Park, with oryx, baboons and waterfalls. For more ideas, see Ethiopia attractions by region.
Last checked: 25 October 2026.
Sodere sits on the Awash River in the Rift Valley. Other easy breaks from the capital are the crater lakes of Bishoftu and Lake Langano; more ideas in Ethiopia attractions by region.
