ETT-2407 :Trekking in Ethiopia’s Bale Mountains

Tour Overview

Day 1

Addis Ababa - Bale Mountains National Park

Early morning departure from Addis to the Bale Mountains National Park. Arrive at the park headquarters in the afternoon, in time for a leisurely afternoon hike, possibly spotting two endemic mammals that frequent the area: Menelik's Bushbuck and the Mountain Nyala. Birds in this area include the Blue-Winged Goose, the Spot-Breasted Lapwing, the Abyssinian Long Claw, the Wattled Ibis, the Black-Headed Siskin, Rouget’s Rail, and numerous other species.

Day 2

Trekking Bale Mountains National Park

Starting from Dinsho, trek to Adelay via the Geysay Valley and the Web River, viewing the Web waterfall along the way. During the hike, there will be wonderful chances to see the Mountain Nyala, Menelik’s Bushbuck, Bohor Reedbuck, and possibly Colobus Monkeys. Trekking will take 4 - 5 hours.

Day 3

Trekking Bale Mountains National Park

Trek to Wasama through a beautiful landscape with stunning views. Pass through Mararo Valley where the Lammergeyer and Verraux Eagles keep nests. There will also be a chance a seeing the Ethiopian Wolf and other species of birds. Around 7 - 8 hours of trekking. Overnight Camping Wasama (3,700 masl)

Day 4

Trekking Bale Mountains National Park

Start the day by hiking up Mt. Wasama (4200m) and then continue down into the Worgona Valley. Falcons, raptors, and possibly the Ethiopian Wolf will be visible. End the day at Lake Gebre Gurracha, meaning “black lake” in the Oromo language. Trekking will take 7-8 hours. Overnight Gebre Guracha (3,900 masl)

Day 5

Sanetti Plateau

Take a short trek from Gebre Gurracha up to the Sanetti Plateau to meet vehicles. Explore the Sanetti Plateau by car. This is the best place in Ethiopia to view the Ethiopian wolf.

Day 6

Harenna Forest

Drive to the Harenna Forest. This is in the southern end of the park and holds a unique variety of vegetation. The Harenna Escarpment towers 2000m above the edge of the forest and provides stunning views. Return to Goba for the night. Overnight Hotel (B, picnic lunch, dinner at hotel)

Day 7

Bale Mountains National Park - Addis Ababa

Drive back to Addis Ababa with stops on the way at Rift Valley Lakes. Enjoy dinner at a traditional Ethiopian restaurant featuring dancers and musicians representing some of the country's many ethnic groups. Transfer to airport for late-night departure or additional hotel nights booked upon request.