Lephis Eco-Tourism Village, located in Ethiopia’s Central Rift Valley near Shashemene, is a pristine destination renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty and sustainable, community-led tourism. Recognized by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) as one of the Best Tourism Villages in 2023, Lephis is celebrated for its lush forests, stunning waterfalls, and rich biodiversity, including endemic bird species, leopards, and colobus monkeys.

The village is home to over 2,000 households that actively participate in conservation efforts and sustainable tourism through the Lephis Ecotourism Cooperative, which offers guided hikes, horseback tours, and camping adventures to showcase the area’s scenic landscapes — including the majestic Lephis Waterfall.

Beyond its natural attractions, Lephis boasts a vibrant cultural heritage, highlighted by its annual Horse Riding Festival and traditional handicrafts made by local artisans. The cooperative reinvests a portion of its profits into community development and forest preservation, ensuring the long-term sustainability of this eco-tourism gem.

Accessible from Addis Ababa, Lephis provides a unique blend of adventure, culture, and environmental stewardship, making it a true model for responsible tourism.