8ec75708d02e18a512d947203b788dc2

Addis Ababa Travel Guide powered by advice from Real Travelers

 Get Real Deal alerts »

3rd Section - Addis Ababa to Nairobi

From On the Road Again - Cairo to Cape Town by Bike in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia on Feb 20 '08

O.J. has visited no places in Addis Ababa
show more map

South of Addis Ababa, the terrain changes yet again to flatter countryside interspersed with beautiful lakes. Lake Langano is set against the Arsi Mountains and is an ideal stop for the riders to camp and take a much-deserved dip. You will also be riding through Shashemene, the unofficial capital of the Ethiopian Rastafarian community. In Yabello, you can visit the wildlife sanctuary where you might catch a glimpse at some of Africa 's rarest birds such as the Prince Ruspoli Turaco.

Crossing from Ethiopia into Kenya begins the “meltdown” portion of this section because the roads in northern Kenya consist of an unpaved lava rock expanse that redefines the word bumpy. This road runs through a hot flat rock desert and then the paved highway begins and you start the ascent around majestic Mount Kenya.

18 Days – 1,610 km

You will cycle through some spectacular scenery, as well as crossing the equator, and undergo some of the most drastic elevation changes as you cycle towards the halfway point of the Tour d'Afrique; Nairobi. The “Meltdown” has the most diverse changes in scenery and riding conditions: desert, mountains, and savannah. Cycling the “Meltdown” in its entirety will be an impressive accomplishment for any cyclist. - Tour d'Afrique


Would you like to comment or ask a question?

Sign up for a free account, or sign in (if you're already a member).

Where have you been lately?

Share your travels with friends & family

Free travel blog
Sign up for a free travel blog

Popular Addis Ababa Hotels

  1. Hilton Addis Ababa
more Addis Ababa hotels »

Popular Addis Ababa Things to Do

  1. Tiya
more Addis Ababa things to do »