With stunning views in all directions the town of Arba Minch is situated in a truly spectacular location. It lies at an elevation of 1,300m in the foothills of the Rift Valley and to the west mountains rise up to almost 4,000m. The town comprises 2 separate settlements 4km apart connected by a sealed road so although the total population is around the 75,000 mark it still retains a small town atmosphere.

Arba Minch is between lakes Abaya and Chamo and is next to Nech Sar National Park. The park includes wide open grasslands, the open water of the lakes and also acacia scrub. In this diverse habitat live many rare and unusual species. It is not widely visited which adds to its wild feel. Also near Arba Minch is a large crocodile market where about 8,000 animals live. They are bred to be reintroduced into the wild to maintain numbers.