Sakaro-sodo

Sakaro Sodo

This is a great choice! Sakaro Sodo is one of the UNESCO-registered megalithic sites in the Gedeb Zone, known for its large number of stones and their arrangement.

The site is located in Gedeb Woreda, just south of Dilla town.

Detailed description of Sakaro Sodo

  1. Location and setting
  • Location: Located in Sakaro Kebele, Gedeb Woreda, Gedeb Zone. It is approximately 60-70 km south of Dilla town (on the road to Moyale).
  • Environment: The site is located in a highland climate, and the area is surrounded by the famous Gedeb Coffee and thorny plants.
  1. Content of the Site
  • Number of Stones: Sakaro Sodo is a site where a large number of stelae (stones) are found in clusters.
  • Shape: The stones found here are cylindrical and phallic in shape. Some are broken, some are half-buried, and others are upright.
  • Historical Age: Like other Gedeo sites, these are estimated to be between 800 and 2000 years old. These stones are believed to have been erected as memorials to ancient leaders or for ceremonial purposes.
  1. What makes them different?
  • The Sakaro Sodo site is different from others (such as Tutu Fela) in that the stones are located in a large field and farmland. The coffee produced in the area is also known as “Worka Sakaro”, a valuable coffee variety known in the world market.

Sakaro Sodo Itinerary (From Dila or Yirgachefe)

Since Sakaro Sodo is located south of Dila town, the trip can take a full day. You can also visit nearby Chelba Tututi in combination.

Day 1: Preparation and Travel to Yirgachefe/Keteb

  • Morning: Depart from Dila town early in the morning and start your journey south (to Khete Woreda). The route passes through the stunning Yirgachefe mountains and coffee plantations.
  • Intermediate stop: Stop for breakfast in Yirgachefe town.

Day 2: Sakaro Sodo and Chelba Tututi Tour

  • Morning (Sakaro Sodo):
    • Upon arrival in Khete Woreda, take the road to Sakaro Kebele (a local guide is required).
    • The tour: Walk through coffee and anise plantations to reach the Tkel Rocks.
    • Hear the history of the standing and fallen stones from an expert. See signs that show how the stones were carved and transported.
  • Afternoon (coffee and more):
    • Stop at a local coffee shop to taste the “Limited Coffee”.
    • If you have time, visit the nearby Chelba Tututi. This is the longest standing stone in Ethiopia and is a fascinating place with thousands of stones.
  • Evening: Return to Dilla.

Day 3: Return

  • Morning: Visit a market or museum in Dilla town and return to Addis Ababa.

Important information and tips

  1. Car choice: As the road to Sakaro Sodo is off the main asphalt and is a rural road, a 4WD (Land Cruiser/Pick-up) vehicle is a must. The road can be slippery if it rains.
  2. Guide: The area may not be fenced and gated like a park (it may be in a farmer’s field). Therefore, hiring a licensed guide from the Woreda Culture and Tourism Office will help guide the way and communicate with the landowners.
  3. Coffee Season: October, November and December are the months when coffee is harvested. If you go during this time, you will see the red coffee cherries on the trees and on the drying beds, making the trip special (Coffee Harvest Season Tour).
  4. Weather: The area is very cold and mountainous. Don’t forget to bring warm clothes (jackets).