Horses and mules still play an important part in the transportation of people and goods and horseriding can therefore be practised in most parts of Ethiopia. Pony treks in the Simien Mountains allow visitors to reach remote areas not accessible by car. There is excellent swimming in the lakes of the Rift Valley , especially Lake Langano , which has a resort with well-developed facilities offering windsurfing and waterskiing . Natural springs in the Awash National Park or at Sodere Filwoha often create pools suitable for swimming. The rivers and streams of the Bale Mountains , in the southeast, and the many lakes in the Rift Valley provide excellent fishing , particularly for trout.
Local fishermen offer trips in their own boats.
Dugout canoes or traditional papyrus boats can also be hired. Sailing and organised boat trips are available on the spectacular Lake Tana , which contains 37 islands, many of which also have monasteries that can be visited. Whitewater rafting is possible on parts of the Omo River and the Blue Nile .