Description

Detailed Description of Chelba Tutiti

1. Nature and Location

• Type of Heritage: A central site where thousands of stone monuments (Stelae/Megaliths) are gathered together.
• Location: Chelba Tutiti is located in the Gedeo Zone, south of the city of Dilla. The area is close to the Yirgacheffe district, home to the world’s best coffee.
• Quantity and Height Variation: This site is distinguished from other Gedeo standing stones by the fact that it contains the largest number of stones in a small area and the tallest stones in the area.

2. Shape and Meaning of the Stones

• Shape: The shapes of the stones often represent body parts or human figures, especially those of the female and male genders (most are round or oval in shape).
• Heritage Purpose: These standing stones are believed to have been erected in ancient Gedeo society as memorials to heroes, tribal leaders, or family members.
• Cultural Preservation: The site, like Songo, is under the laws and protection of the Baalle System, and has remained untouched over the centuries.

3. Tourism Experience

• Surrounded by coffee and tea forests, the site combines a heritage tour with a nature walk and an amazing coffee experience. Visitors will immerse themselves in the deep agricultural system of Gedeo and see the artifacts.

Chelba Tutiti Itinerary

This itinerary focuses on visiting Chelba Tutiti and its surroundings in the Gedeo zone.

Day 1: Departure and Location

• Morning: Travel from Addis Ababa to Dilla city (flight to Hawassa and then drive or drive directly).
• Afternoon: Arrive in Dilla and rest.
• Evening: Meet and arrange for a local guide for the next day’s trip.

Day 2: Chelba Tutiti and Coffee Center Tour

• Morning (from 2:00 AM): Take the road from Dilla to Chelba Tutiti.
  • Note: Since Chelba Tutiti is mostly in the Yirgachefe and Gedebe areas, the journey passes through green coffee plantations.
• Heritage Tour:
  • Walk to the site (may require some walking).
  • See the huge, clustered stones and learn their cultural significance from your guide.
• Afternoon (Coffee Experience):
  • Since Chelba Tutiti is located next to Yirgachefe, in the afternoon visit one of the coffee washing stations in Yirgachefe or Gadeb.
  • Learn about the process of producing the best Ethiopian coffee and taste fresh coffee.
• Evening: Return to Dilla and rest.

Day 3: Optional Tour and Return

• Morning: Visit another major heritage site nearby (e.g. Tutu Fela).
• Afternoon: Return to Addis Ababa.

Important Tips for Visiting

1. Transportation: A 4WD (high-altitude vehicle) is required for this site. Although the roads are paved, the roads leading to the heritage site are rural.
2. Shoes and Clothing: As the area is hilly and you are walking through farmland, it is recommended to have walking shoes and waterproof clothing.
3. Guide: You will definitely need a local guide to get to the history and location of Chelba Tutiti.