- Overview
- Itineraries
- Trip Includes
- Trip Excludes
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The Bale Mountains National Park is Ethiopia's crown jewel for bird watchers and wildlife enthusiasts. Located in the southeastern highlands, this UNESCO-recognized park features diverse habitats, including grasslands, alpine moorlands, bamboo forests, and the lush Harenna Forest. It's one of the best places to see Ethiopia's endemic birds, alongside iconic species like the Ethiopian Wolf. The tour combines expertly guided birding, breathtaking landscapes, and cultural encounters with local Oromo communities.
Highlights:
- Spot iconic species like the Abyssinian Catbird, Spot-breasted Lapwing, and Rouget’s Rail.
- Explore the vast Sanetti Plateau, home to high-altitude raptors and Ethiopian Wolves.
- Birding in the magical Harenna Forest, known for its unique biodiversity.
- Immerse yourself in the culture of local Oromo communities.
Itineraries
Day 1
Arrival and Gaysay Grasslands
- Morning: Arrive in Bale Mountains via Addis Ababa (domestic flight or overland drive).
- Afternoon: Birding at Gaysay Grasslands near Dinsho Lodge to spot Wattled Ibises, Abyssinian Longclaw, and Mountain Buzzards.
- Evening: Orientation session at the lodge with a checklist overview and briefing.
- Accommodation: Stay at Dinsho Lodge or Bale Mountain Eco-Lodge.
- Meals: Lunch and dinner included.
Day 2
Sanetti Plateau Exploration
- Morning: Early departure to Sanetti Plateau. Spot endemic birds such as the Spot-breasted Lapwing, Blue-winged Goose, and Rouget’s Rail.
- Afternoon: Lunch in the field with views of the plateau. Continue birding to see high-altitude raptors like the Lammergeier and Steppe Eagles.
- Evening: Return to the lodge for dinner and relaxation.
- Accommodation: Bale Mountain Lodge.
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included.
Day 3
Harenna Forest Adventure
- Morning: Full-day excursion into the Harenna Forest. Birding highlights include Abyssinian Crimson-wing, White-cheeked Turaco, and Narina Trogon.
- Afternoon: Visit a local coffee farm for insights into traditional forest coffee production.
- Evening: Dinner at the lodge with optional stargazing in the clear night skies.
- Accommodation: Bale Mountain Lodge.
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included.
Day 4
Departure To Addis Ababa
- Morning: Optional sunrise birding at Gaysay Grasslands for any missed sightings.
- Afternoon: Depart for Addis Ababa or your next destination.
- Meals: Breakfast included.
- Private transportation (4x4 vehicles for rugged terrain).
- Accommodations in lodges or eco-camps.
- All meals as per the itinerary.
- Professional birding guide with spotting scopes and bird checklists.
- Entrance fees to Bale Mountains National Park.
- Bottled water and snacks during excursions.
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- International and domestic flights.
- Travel insurance.
- Alcoholic beverages and additional snacks.
- Tips for guides, drivers, and lodge staff.
- Personal expenses (laundry, souvenirs, etc.).
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