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Kuriftu Water Park

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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Kuriftu Water Park is located in Bishoftu (Debre Zeyit), approximately 45 kilometers southeast of Addis Ababa. Opened in August 2019, it is recognized as the largest water park in East Africa. The facility covers an area of about 30,000 square meters and is an integral part of the larger Kuriftu Resort & Spa complex. The park features over 15 diverse water attractions, including wave pools, multiple slides for all age groups, and a dedicated play area for young children. Notable highlights include the 'Boomerango' slide and various spiral water tunnels designed for high-speed thrills. The water park was developed to cater to the increasing demand for modern leisure and entertainment facilities among Ethiopia's growing middle class and international visitors. In addition to the aquatic features, the complex includes several restaurants, snack bars, and retail outlets. Situated in Bishoftu, a town famous for its numerous volcanic crater lakes, the park has become a premier weekend destination. Its establishment has significantly boosted domestic tourism and provided numerous employment opportunities for the local community.

Location: Ethiopia
Top sights: Debrezeyt Full Gospel Church (No. 5) · Lake Cheleleka · Babogaya Youth recreation No. 1
Nearby: Sodere (54 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan–Mar.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	15	17	18	18	18	18	16	16	16	14	14	14
Rain mm	12	27	56	90	89	116	239	246	145	34	16	13

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

Kuriftu Water Park is a public water park that can be visited for an entrance fee. The entire facility is open to visitors, with the pools and slides being the main attractions.

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Typical hours

The water park is typically open daily from about 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with possible variations on holidays. It is advisable to check current hours before your visit.

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Photography

Photography is allowed throughout the water park, but you should respect the privacy of other guests. In changing rooms and showers, photography is of course prohibited.

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Time needed

Allow at least three to four hours to try all the slides and pools. For a relaxed day with breaks and meals, plan for a full day.

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Combine with

Combine your visit with the nearby Kuriftu Resort & Spa for complete relaxation. Lake Babogaya is also worth a visit.

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Getting there

The water park is located about 30 kilometers from Addis Ababa and can be reached by taxi or rental car. The journey typically takes about 45 minutes to an hour.

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Insider tip

Arrive early in the morning to avoid the crowds and have the best selection of loungers. Don't forget to bring sunscreen and water shoes.

Geography

Coordinates

8.75000, 38.98000

Facts

Kuriftu Water Park officially opened its doors on August 31, 2019.
The park has a total area of 30,000 square meters (approx. 7.4 acres).
It features more than 15 major water slides and aquatic attractions.
The facility is capable of hosting up to 5,000 visitors per day at full capacity.
It is part of the Kuriftu hospitality brand, founded by entrepreneur Tadiwos Belete.
The water park is located within driving distance of five major crater lakes in Bishoftu.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Bishoftu<1 km · NExplore →

Dukem Eastern Industry Zone10 km · SEExplore →

Pula & Chia14 km · SEExplore →

Villarios16 km · NWExplore →

Modjo Dry Port21 km · NWExplore →

Koka Reservoir22 km · WExplore →

Pula22 km · EExplore →

Santu Perdu22 km · EExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Kuriftu Water Park (3)

Debrezeyt Full Gospel Church (No. 5)🌿 nature

An elevated vantage point on the Protestant church grounds offering wide views over the urban landscape of Bishoftu.

Lake Cheleleka📍 landmark

A shallow crater lake and vital seasonal wetland in Bishoftu that attracts large flocks of migratory birds, including flamingos.

Babogaya Youth recreation No. 1📍 landmark

A lakeside recreation center right on the steep shores of the Babogaya crater lake, used for local youth water activities.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Where is Kuriftu Waterpark located?

In Bishoftu (Debre Zeit), about a 45-minute drive from Addis Ababa.

Are there many slides?

Yes, there are numerous slides, a wave pool, and areas for children.

Do we need to bring swimwear?

Yes, proper swimwear is required for using the pools.

Is food available there?

Yes, there are restaurants and snack bars inside the waterpark.

Are there lockers available?

Yes, you can rent lockers to store valuables safely.

Kuriftu Water Park: where is it located?

Kuriftu Water Park is located in Ethiopia.

Kuriftu Water Park: what is there to see?

Highlights include Debrezeyt Full Gospel Church (No. 5), Lake Cheleleka, Babogaya Youth recreation No. 1.

Kuriftu Water Park: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar.

Kuriftu Water Park: why is it worth visiting?

Kuriftu Water Park is located in Bishoftu (Debre Zeyit), approximately 45 kilometers southeast of Addis Ababa.

View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →