Ethiopia Retreat 2025
Addis Ababa &
Lake Langano
In October 2025, Zami Collective hosted the first edition of the Ethiopia Retreat. Over seven days, the Ethiopia cohort sampled Ethiopian jazz at Fendika, delicious Ethiopian cuisine and coffee ceremonies by the shores of Lake Langano. Fully immersed into Addis Ababa’s arts and cultural landscape, Zami Collective partnered with artisans and artist studios to showcase the creative impact that Ethiopia’s artists are having on the cultural economy. From studio tours with Michael Tsegaye, to hands on botanical printing and Ethiopian calligraphy workshops at Bleu Studio, participants heard from artists about their practice and the collective spaces they are cultivating to make art accessible in Addis Ababa.
What Our Guests Love
“I had a wonderful time at the Zami Ethiopia Retreat, in Langano and Addis Ababa. The first leg of the retreat in Langano at an eco-lodge was very serene and relaxing, right next to the shores of Lake Langano. We got to see the nature and biodiversity of this region through a guided hike as well as some cultural activities such as a traditional coffee ceremony. The second leg of the retreat was in the capital city Addis Ababa where we got to visit the Sabahar textiles workshop and observe how traditional Ethiopian textiles are made from beginning to end, as well as visiting some up and coming art galleries and exhibitions. Kulani our host was very mindful and attentive to all the participants and their comfort, she ensured that the entire trip was seamless from the organization of transport to facilitating different activities and the collective dreaming workshop. Overall, it was a very special experience for me and an opportunity to see a side of Ethiopia that I haven’t before. I would highly recommend anyone interested to join Kulani on the next retreat and experience East Africa in an authentic way!”
— Michelle M, Kenya
Ethiopia Retreat 2025
Ethiopia, Lake Langano
What Our Guests Love
“This was my first time traveling with Zami and my first time visiting Ethiopia and I had an amazing time. I really enjoyed being able to see so many different art spaces in Addis Ababa and connecting with and hearing from artists about their practice and the spaces/collectives they are cultivating. The nature throughout the country was very calming and relaxing to be immersed in and the food was delicious everywhere we went and the accommodations were very nice in every city we visited. I would definitely recommend a Zami retreat to anyone interested in the destinations/experiences they offer. I'll for sure be traveling back to Ethiopia in the near future!”
— Alexandra A, Visual Artist, Haiti & USA
Ethiopia Retreat 2025
Addis Ababa
