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Wondo Genet Forestry

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Agriculture

Weather…

Wondo Genet is situated on the perimeter of the Ethiopian Rift Valley near the town of Shashemene, renowned for its lush Afromontane forest ecosystem and natural hot springs. The area is home to the prestigious Wondo Genet College of Forestry and Natural Resources, established in 1978, which remains Ethiopia's leading institution for forestry science and environmental research. The region has exceptional biodiversity, serving as a sanctuary for numerous endemic bird species and endangered primates, such as the Mantled Guereza monkey. The humid microclimate supports intensive agriculture; in addition to sustainable forestry, the area is a major producer of high-quality coffee, khat, and various tropical fruits. The forest cover consists of a mix of indigenous species, including Juniperus procera, and introduced eucalyptus plantations vital for the local construction industry. Wondo Genet also functions as a critical watershed, with its mountain streams providing essential irrigation for the surrounding agricultural plains. This integration of ecological protection and productive land use makes Wondo Genet a primary model for sustainable highland development in Ethiopia.

Location: Ethiopia
Nearby: Shashamane (9 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	16	17	18	17	16	15	15	15	15	15	15	15
Rain mm	20	39	96	219	214	114	132	174	167	141	83	33

📋 Practical info

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What is this place?

The Wondo Genet Forestry Center in Ethiopia is known for its tree nurseries and hot springs, attracting many visitors each year. It serves reforestation, research, and recreation in a rural setting.

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Visiting

The site is open to the public; the tree nurseries and arboretum can be toured. The hot springs are integrated into a small spa that visitors can use.

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Where to view it

Best views of the center and surrounding forests are from the slopes of Mount Wondo. From the trails around the springs you get a wonderful view of the valley.

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Local products

The nursery sells native tree seedlings for reforestation projects. In the surrounding villages you can find honey, coffee, and handcrafted wooden items.

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Active season

The center is open year-round; the main rainy season from June to September is most active for forest planting. The hot springs are a year-round attraction.

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Nearby

Combine the visit with a hike in Bale Mountains National Park or a trip to Lake Hawassa. The town of Shashamane with its cultural diversity is also worth a detour.

Geography

Coordinates

7.10000, 38.60000

Facts

The Wondo Genet College of Forestry was established in 1978.
The region is located at an average elevation of around 1,800 meters.
Natural hot springs in the area reach temperatures exceeding 50°C.
The forest is home to more than 150 different species of birds.
Wondo Genet was formerly a private retreat for the Ethiopian imperial family.
Local forestry practices integrate indigenous trees with commercial timber.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Wondo Genet3 km · NWExplore →

Shashamane9 km · EExplore →

Hawassa14 km · SExplore →

Lake Awasa19 km · SExplore →

Lake Shala33 km · EExplore →

Senkele Wildlife Sanctuary34 km · SExplore →

Sidamo Coffee Region37 km · WExplore →

Yirgalem37 km · SWExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

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

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

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

Sights in the town Wondo Genet Forestry (1)

Arboretum🏛 museum

A living museum in the Wondo Genet forest preserving a diverse collection of Ethiopian highland tree species and tropical plants.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is Wondo Genet known for?

For its natural hot springs and dense mountain forest.

What is grown there for forestry purposes?

There are eucalyptus and pine plantations, along with a forestry college.

Can you bathe in the hot springs?

Yes, there are public baths and hotel pools with thermal water.

Are there many birds there?

Yes, it is a paradise for birdwatchers with many endemic species.

How do you reach Wondo Genet?

It is located about 15 km from the city of Shashemene.

Wondo Genet Forestry: where is it located?

Wondo Genet Forestry is located in Ethiopia.

Wondo Genet Forestry: when is the best time to visit?