Explore the world with tourHQ
Ethiopia · National Parks
The journey
Embark on a 9-day Ethiopia adventure from Addis Ababa through the Rift Valley to Bale Mountains and Awash National Park. Explore historic sites, bustling markets, rock-hewn churches, and traditional coffee plantations while discovering scenic lakes, hot springs, and abundant birdlife. Enjoy game walks and safari drives in national parks, spotting endemic species such as the Mountain Nyala and Ethiopian Wolf. Along the way, experience cultural encounters with local communities and Ethiopia's rich natural and cultural heritage.
Explore afro-alpine vegetation and observe endemic species including the Ethiopian Wolf, giant mole rat, and aquatic birds.
From the itinerary
At a glance
Day by day
Spend the rest of the day on a city tour visiting Mercato, the largest open-air market in Africa (Monday to Saturday), Trinity Cathedral, St. George Church, and other sites.
Overnight at hotel.
On the way, visit the rock-hewn church of Adadi Mariam and the Tiya archaeological site.
Have lunch in Butajira town and continue to Lake Ziway to observe aquatic bird life.
Arrive at Lake Langano in the late afternoon.
Overnight at lodge.
Have lunch in Shashemene town.
Continue to Awassa via Wondo Genet resort for swimming, hiking, or bird watching.
Take a short walking tour along Awassa lakeshore in the late afternoon.
Optional: Drive directly to Awassa after lunch and enjoy a boat ride to see hippos and aquatic birds.
Overnight at hotel.
Drive to Yirgalem town, known for some of Ethiopia's best coffee brands.
Visit a local coffee plantation and participate in a traditional coffee ceremony at a private home.
Overnight at lodge.
Take an afternoon game walking tour to see endemic species such as Mountain Nyala, Menelik's Bushbuck, and Gray Dik-dik.
Continue to the small town of Goba for an overnight stay.
Overnight at hotel (basic).
Explore afro-alpine vegetation and observe endemic species including the Ethiopian Wolf, giant mole rat, and aquatic birds.
Hike to Tulu Dimtu (4,377 masl), the third-highest peak in Ethiopia.
Have a picnic lunch and drive south to Harena Forest to enjoy the scenic surroundings.
Return to Goba in the late afternoon.
Overnight at hotel.
Stop for lunch in Nazareth town along the way.
Overnight at hotel or lodge.
In the afternoon, enjoy a game drive and walking tour to observe Bisa Oryx, Salt's Dik-Dik, Grivet Monkey, Lesser Kudu, Soemmerring's Gazelle, Spotted-necked Otter, and Awash River Falls.
Overnight at hotel or lodge.
Stop for lunch in a town along the way.
On arrival, enjoy a city tour and shopping.
Attend a farewell dinner at a cultural restaurant.
Transfer to the airport for your departure.
End of the tour.
Where this trip takes you
Bale Mountains National Park, Sanate Plateau, Tulu Dimtu (4,377 masl), Awash National Park
The route
The fine print
Meals on a full board basis
Accommodation in lodges and hotels
Mini van transportation throughout the trip
Fuel expenses
English-speaking guide throughout the tour
Local guide service at each site
Entrance fees at all sites
Drinking water as needed
Pick-up and drop-off from and to the airport or hotel
Scout allowance
Government tax
Local and international air tickets
Personal expenses such as shopping and photography
Health-related expenses
Visa and travel insurance fees
Tips for guides and staff
Alcoholic drinks
Trekking shoes
Walking stick
Light clothing for daytime
Thick clothing for cold weather
Sunscreen and other sun protection creams
Hat or cap for sun protection
Sunglasses
Gloves and warm accessories for high altitudes
Backpack for essentials
Respect the culture of local people throughout the trip.
Do not take photos of camels belonging to the Afar and Oromo tribes near Awash National Park.
Avoid giving sweets and candies to children at any location.
If bringing school materials, they will be distributed during visits to schools along the route.
Boat rental is optional.
Logistics
Your 9 days finish where they began, in Addis Ababa.
Watch the film
Create your own adventure
Say goodbye to travel stress.
Starting from
Estimated room rates
When
Travellers
Total
—
