Join us on a thrilling journey through Ethiopia's diverse landscapes, discovering a wealth of bird species, including unique endemics. From Debre Libanos to the Bale Mountains, you'll experience exceptional birdwatching and breathtaking scenery in one of Africa's top birding destinations!
| DEPARTURE/RETURN LOCATION | This tour starts and ends in Addis Ababa |
| DEPARTURE TIME | If availability permits, this tour can start on any day. |
| INCLUDED | "" |
| NOT INCLUDED | Excluded |
From Debre Libanos to the Bale Mountains, you'll experience exceptional birdwatching and breathtaking scenery in one of Africa's top birding destinations!
Upon arrival, you'll meet your tour guide for a traditional Ethiopian coffee and breakfast before heading to Debre Libanos. You'll enjoy birdwatching as you spot Hooded Vultures, Black Kites, and endemic species like the White-Collared Pigeon. You'll visit the sacred Debre Libanos Monastery, searching for Rüppell's Vulture and other raptors. Your overnight stay will be at the Ethio German Lodge.
In the early morning, you'll search for the endemic Harwood’s Francolin at Jemma Gorge, a prime birdwatching spot. The day continues with terrestrial birding, exploring diverse ecosystems, and spotting various species. In the evening, you'll head to Sululta for a restful night at Addis Hotel Lobelia, perfect for reflecting on the day's adventures.
Your adventure begins with a pick-up from your hotel or the airport by our experienced driver and guide. You will head onto the expressway, reaching Adama (formerly known as Nazret) in approximately one hour.
As you drive from the park gate towards the Awash River, keep an eye out for wildlife such as Beisa Oryx, Klipspringer, Hamadryas and Anubis baboons, Salt’s Dik-dik, and Grivet monkeys. You'll also visit the stunning Awash Gorge, where two rivers converge, and take a trip to the picturesque Awash Falls before returning to the lodge.
As temperatures cool, you’ll go on a game drive. Here, you may encounter Soemmerring’s gazelle, lesser and greater kudus, warthogs, the Defarsa waterbuck, Colobus and Grivet monkeys, as well as black-backed and golden jackals. With some luck, you might spot elusive leopards and lions. Awash National Park is home to over 400 recorded bird species, set against a beautiful backdrop of grasslands and acacia scrub, complemented by the flowing Awash River.
You'll spend the day exploring Awash National Park's diverse habitats. Look for over 460 bird species, including the Egyptian vulture and Greater spotted eagle, as well as mammals like the Aardwolf and Beisa oryx. A night drive offers a chance to see nocturnal wildlife. Your overnight stay will be at Doho Lodge.
You’ll depart early for the breathtaking Great Rift Valley lakes, stopping along the way for birdwatching at Lake Beseka and Lake Koka, where you can spot a variety of unique species. After a morning of exploration, you’ll enjoy a delicious lunch at Lake Ziway, renowned for its vibrant birdlife and stunning views. Following your meal, you'll continue to Lake Langano, a picturesque destination perfect for relaxation and wildlife observation. In the evening, you'll unwind at the Sabana Beach Resort, where you can enjoy the serene surroundings and reflect on a day filled with unforgettable birdwatching experiences.
You'll spend the day exploring the beautiful grounds of the ecolodge, where vibrant landscapes provide the perfect habitat for a variety of bird species. As you wander, keep an eye out for the striking Sulfur-Breasted Bush Shrike and the elusive Abyssinian Ground Thrush, both of which are known to inhabit this region. The lush environment offers numerous opportunities for birdwatching, allowing you to immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of nature. In the evening, you'll return to your cozy accommodations at Lake Langano, where you can relax and reflect on the day's discoveries while enjoying the tranquil lakeside setting. This experience promises to deepen your appreciation for Ethiopia's rich avian diversity.
You'll travel to the breathtaking Bale Mountains National Park, where the diverse habitats offer exceptional birdwatching opportunities. You'll begin your day at the park headquarters, searching for the elusive Chestnut-Napped Francolin and the striking Abyssinian Catbird. As you explore the park, keep an eye out for its unique mammals, including the endangered Mountain Nyala, often spotted grazing in the lush surroundings. The stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity create an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts. After a day filled with adventure and discovery, you'll unwind at the Goba Shebele Hotel, where you can relax and enjoy the serene atmosphere. This overnight stay promises to be the perfect way to recharge before further exploring the wonders of Bale Mountains National Park.
You'll ascend the majestic Bale Mountain massif, where the journey takes you through stunning landscapes filled with rich biodiversity. As you birdwatch in the enchanting juniper forest, keep your eyes peeled for a variety of species, including the elusive Wattled Crane. The transition to the Afro-Alpine moorland offers a unique opportunity to spot the rare Ethiopian Wolf, one of Africa's most endangered carnivores, as it roams the high-altitude terrain. As the day draws to a close, you'll return to Goba for a restful night.
You'll descend into the warm embrace of the central Rift Valley, where the vibrant ecosystem around Lake Awassa comes alive with an array of aquatic bird species. You'll spend your day exploring the lakeshore, observing the colorful sights and sounds of birds such as herons, pelicans, and various migratory species that flock to this rich habitat. The serene waters and lush surroundings create a perfect backdrop for birdwatching, allowing you to immerse yourself in nature's beauty.
