Sof Omar

Sof Omar is one of the most spectacular and extensive underground caverns in the world. Formed by the Weib River as it changed its courses and carved a new channel through limestone foothills in antiquity the Sof Omar system is an extraordinary natural phenomenon of breath taking beauty. The caves are a natural marvel of architecture with twenty meter high soaring pillars, flying but tresses, fluted archways and tall airy vaults. A balcony near the roof offers a spectacular view of the river rushing on its course below. The large central hall of Sof Omar, the ‘chamber of columns’ so named after the colossal limestone pillars that are its dominant feature – is one of the highlights of the cave system. In another part of the network there is a small gap in the rocks through which the river passes. About two and half meters wide where a bridge can be made with driftwood to go across.

SHEIK HUSSEIN

Sheik Hussein situated on the border between Arsi and Bale is the most important site for Muslim pilgrimage in Ethiopia. The site consisting of a large complex of mosques, Shrines and tombs surrounded by a thick wall is visited twice a year by thousands of pilgrims from all over Ethiopia. There is also a network of manmade caves and artificial ponds in the area.