9 Days Journey to the Birthplace of Coffee

This morning, we'll take a brief flight to Jimma, where we'll meet our local guide and our van. We'll then drive for about 2 hours to Bonga in the Kaffa Biosphere Reserve, enjoying breathtaking scenery along the way. Our guesthouses, nestled in beautifully landscaped gardens and surrounded by acacia trees and jungle, make for the perfect base for our exploration. After settling in, we'll stretch our legs by hiking to the former site of the King of Kafa’s palace, which provides stunning panoramic views of the lush landscape we'll be discovering over the next few days. Accommodation: Hotel or Guest House, Bonga Meals: Breakfast

Today, the team at Tatmara Coffee Plantation will welcome us and share the traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony. For lunch, we’ll enjoy homemade Ethiopian pizza, followed by a guided tour of the facilities to discover the coffee-making process. Afterwards, we will head back to our guesthouse in Bonga for another night. Accommodation: Hotel or Guest House, Bonga Meals: Breakfast

Today is all about indulging our senses—sight, sound, smell, and taste! We’ll kick off the morning with a 2km round trip walk to admire the stunning Barta waterfall. A highlight of the day will be a visit to a nearby bee farm, where we can observe the buzzing workers and their dedication to their craft. We'll have the chance to see the beehives, taste the honey, and purchase some as souvenirs. In the afternoon, we’ll head to the Wush Wush Tea plantation near Bonga to witness the entire process, from leaf picking to drying and the creation of the final product. Accommodation: Hotel or Guest House, Bonga Meals: Breakfast

A 40-minute drive takes us to a picturesque 3-hour round trip walk through the vibrant Mankira Wild Coffee Forest, where we'll see the ‘Mother Tree,’ the oldest wild coffee tree in the region. Afterward, we return to Bonga for lunch and visit a family-operated spice farm. While our hosts may not speak English, their hospitality is unmistakable. Your assigned guide will facilitate translation so we can learn about their work and ask questions. Accommodation: Hotel or Guest House, Bonga Meals: Breakfast

We'll explore another magnificent coffee plantation, taking in some of the country’s breathtaking landscapes. Our day begins early with a thrilling 2-3 hour 4x4 ride through a region that resembles the setting of the film 'Medicine Man.' Along the way, we’ll spot Colobus monkeys, tropical birds, and various other wildlife. After touring the plantation, we’ll savor a delicious lunch before heading back to the Kafa guesthouse. Accommodation: Hotel or Guest House, Bonga Meals: Breakfast

This morning, we embark on a 2-hour drive from Bonga to Jimma, a central coffee hub in southwestern Ethiopia. Our first stop is the colorful palace and museum of Abba Jifar, the former king of the Gibe Kingdom of Jimma, which was the largest and most influential of the five Gibe kingdoms established around 1830. The palace, built with 400 kg of gold and 65,000 Maria Theresa dollars, now serves as a museum showcasing its historical contents. Jimma is a lively town where you can explore the markets, followed by dinner and a comfortable overnight stay at the top hotel in the area, featuring modern amenities. Accommodation: Hotel, Jimma Meals: Breakfast

This morning, we will take a domestic flight back to the capital. After freshening up in our rooms, we'll embark on a brief guided city tour. Our visit will include the Red Terror and Ethnographic Museum, allowing us to immerse ourselves in Addis Ababa's vibrant culture and gain insights into Ethiopian history. We'll conclude the day with a final group dinner at one of the city's finest restaurants. Accommodation: Hotel, Addis Ababa Meals: Breakfast

For travelers not continuing on to Lalibela or another destination, we will transfer you to the airport this morning for your departure from Addis Ababa. If you have a late evening flight, there may be time for shopping and relaxation. Departing from the stunning landscapes of Ethiopia may feel bittersweet, but everyday life awaits. It's time to start planning your next adventure! End of the tour!