Explore Sof Omar Caves, one of the largest caves in Africa
Source：CCCCTime：2026-05-18
CCCC upgrades Ethiopia's Sof Omar Caves, featured on the 100-birr note. Using hand tools, smart lighting, and digital scanning, it creates an eco-friendly landmark.
What lies inside Ethiopia's Sof Omar Caves, one of the largest caves in Africa, a UNESCO World Heritage candidate? Stretching 15.1 kilometers across southeastern Ethiopia's Oromia region, the mysterious and magnificent Sof Omar Caves are featured on the back of the country's 100-birr banknote.
Now, a tourism development and upgrade project undertaken by CCCC is transforming them into a brand new cultural and travel landmark in Africa.To protect the ancient rock formations, builders carry out all construction work entirely by hand, using millimeter-precision scanning to create a digital model and installing eco-friendly walkways that blend seamlessly with the cave walls.
The project introduces smart lighting for a unique "water and light" experience, along with a landscape hall and conference space — making it Ethiopia's first naturally lit intelligent cave attraction.
It has created over 80 local jobs and supported more than 200 families, with all tour guides now local. One elder said, "You gave us not just lights and roads, but work and dignity."
From banknote icon to tourism landmark, CCCC is bringing this geological wonder to the world with skill and care.
Editor: First Highway Engineering
