2-Day Awash National Park Safari with Filwoha Hot Springs

2 Days Round trip from bole international airport Easy pace

The journey

Trip highlights

01 Scenic 4x4 journey from Addis Ababa through the Great Rift Valley
02 Pause at Lake Beseka for waterbirds and views toward Mount Fentale
03 Walk the rim of the basaltic gorge to see the roaring Awash River Falls
04 Sunset and dawn game drives across acacia plains for wildlife viewing
05 Visit the Filwoha Hot Springs oasis surrounded by wild Doum palms

Escape Addis Ababa for a two-day 4x4 safari into Awash National Park, travelling through the dramatic landscapes of the Great Rift Valley to acacia plains, volcanic scenery, and classic lowland wildlife. Along the way, pause at Lake Beseka for waterbirds and views toward Mount Fentale, then discover the roaring Awash River Falls and enjoy rewarding sunset and dawn game drives across the park. Day two brings a visit to the serene Filwoha Hot Springs, where crystal-clear thermal pools sit within a lush oasis of wild Doum palms, before returning to Addis Ababa.

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 2 Days

Tour type Private

Activity level Easy

Accommodation Included · Standard

Transport Included

Wheelchair access No

Cities Addis Ababa, Awash National Park

Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Addis Ababa to Awash via the Great Rift Valley

Morning: Scenic Drive Through the Great Rift Valley

Pickup & Departure: Depart from your hotel or airport in Addis Ababa in a comfortable 4x4 safari vehicle with your professional guide and driver.
Rift Valley Landscape: Enjoy a scenic drive through the dramatically changing landscapes of the Great Rift Valley, passing local towns, farmlands, and acacia trees.
Lake Beseka Stop: Take a short break at Lake Beseka, a dramatic volcanic lake known for its waterbirds and views of Mount Fentale.

Afternoon: Park Entry & Awash River Falls

Lodge Check-in & Lunch: Arrive at Awash National Park, check into your lodge, and enjoy a fresh lunch.
Awash River Gorge & Waterfall: Walk along the rim of the basaltic canyon to view the roaring Awash River Falls as it cascades down into the deep gorge.

Evening: Sunset Game Drive

Savanna Safari: Embark on an evening game drive across the acacia plains to spot Beisa oryx, Greater and Lesser kudu, gazelles, and hamadryas baboons.
Sunset Viewpoint: Watch the sunset over the volcanic plains before returning to your lodge for dinner and an evening under the stars.

Day 02

Dawn Safari, Filwoha Hot Springs and Return to Addis

Morning: Dawn Game Drive & Hot Springs Oasis

Early Morning Game Drive: Head out at sunrise when predators, herbivores, and bird species are most active across the plains of Ilala Sala.
Filwoha Hot Springs: Journey to the northern sector of the park to visit the natural Filwoha Thermal Springs, nestled inside a lush oasis of wild Doum palm trees.
Relaxation & Photography: Take a peaceful walk around the crystal-clear thermal pools and enjoy the contrasting tropical oasis landscape.

Afternoon: Lunch & Return to Addis Ababa

Lunch & Check-out: Enjoy lunch back at the lodge before checking out and beginning your return journey.
Scenic Return Drive: Relax on the return drive to Addis Ababa, taking in the afternoon views of the Rift Valley with stops for coffee.
Hotel / Airport Drop-Off: Arrive in Addis Ababa in the late afternoon with direct drop-off at your hotel or Bole International Airport for your evening flight.

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from bole international airport 2 cities · 2 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

Transport: Private round-trip transport from Addis Ababa in a 4x4.
Guide Services: Professional English-speaking local tour guide.
Park Fees: Awash National Park entrance fees and local park scout services.
Accommodation: 1 night of accommodation near Awash National Park or at Awash Falls Lodge.
Meals & Drinks: All meals during the tour (2 lunches, 1 dinner, and 1 breakfast), plus bottled water throughout the trip.
Activities: Guided game drives, a visit to Awash River Falls, a visit to Filwoha Hot Springs, and birdwatching excursions.

What's Not Included

Personal expenses
Alcoholic beverages
Camera fees (if any)
Tips/gratuities for the guide and driver

What to bring

Comfortable Footwear: Sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots for exploring city streets, historical sites, and uneven terrain.
Layered Clothing: Lightweight layers for daytime warmth and a light jacket or fleece for cooler evenings or higher-altitude areas.
Modest Attire: Clothing that covers shoulders and knees for visiting churches, monasteries, and local communities.
Sun Protection: Sunglasses, a sun hat, and high-SPF sunscreen.
Reusable Water Bottle: Essential for staying hydrated throughout the day's activities.
Universal Power Adapter: To keep your devices charged during your stay.
Personal Medications & First Aid: Any prescription medications, basic pain relievers, and personal motion sickness or stomach remedies.
Daypack: A comfortable small backpack for carrying daily essentials, water, and camera gear during tours.

Know before you go

Arrival & Meeting Point: Your tour starts with a welcome at Bole Addis Ababa International Airport, where your guide will meet you upon arrival.
Accommodation: You will stay in a comfortable standard 3-star hotel during the tour.
Clothing & Dress Code: Dress modestly when visiting religious sites and local communities. Comfortable walking shoes and layered clothing are recommended for changing weather conditions.
Health & Documentation: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates. Carry your travel insurance documents and any necessary personal medications.
Accessibility: Please note that this tour is not wheelchair accessible and involves moderate physical activity.