Overview
A Seven-day birdwatching tour in Ethiopia is an excellent way to explore the country’s rich avian diversity, including its 30 endemic species and a wide variety of other birds. Ethiopia’s diverse landscapes, from highland forests to Rift Valley lakes, provide habitats for an incredible range of birdlife.
Itinerary
Arrive in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia’s capital. Drive to Debre Libanos (approx. 2 hours), a scenic area with dramatic cliffs and lush vegetation. Birdwatching highlights: Thick-billed Raven, White-winged Cliff Chat, Rüppell's Black Chat, Wattled Ibis and Lammergeier (Bearded Vulture). Overnight at Aya Hotel or at the hotel of your choice.
Drive to Awash National Park (approx. 3-4 hours), located in the Great Rift Valley. Birdwatching highlights: Somali Ostrich, Abyssinian Roller, Yellow-breasted Barbet, Crimson-winged Finch and Kori Bustard. Explore the park’s diverse habitats, including savannah, wetlands, and riverine forests. Overnight at Doho in Awash National Park.
Drive to Lake Langano (approx. 5-6 hours), one of the Rift Valley Lakes. Birdwatching highlights: African Fish Eagle, Malachite Kingfisher, Grey-headed Kingfisher, White- backed Black Tit and African Pygmy Kingfisher. Enjoy birdwatching along the lake’s shores and in the surrounding forests. Overnight at a lodge near Lake Langano.
Visit the Bishangari Forest, a pristine area near Lake Langano. Birdwatching highlights: Yellow-fronted Parrot, Black-winged Lovebird, African Paradise Flycatcher, Crowned Eagle and Silvery-cheeked Hornbill. Explore the forest trails and spot a variety of forest- dwelling birds. Overnight at a lodge near Lake Langano.
Drive to Wondo Genet (approx. 2 hours), a lush highland area known for its hot springs and forests. Birdwatching highlights: Abyssinian Catbird, Abyssinian Slaty Flycatcher,
Black-headed Forest Oriole, Tacazze Sunbird and African Olive Pigeon. Explore the forest and enjoy the relaxing hot springs. Overnight in Wondo Genet.
Drive to Bale Mountains National Park (approx. 5-6 hours), a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Birdwatching highlights: Wattled Crane, Rouget's Rail, Blue-winged Goose, Spot-
breasted Plover and Abyssinian Longclaw. Explore the park’s unique habitats, including the Sanetti Plateau and Harenna Forest. Overnight at Wabishebele Hotel.
Spend the morning birdwatching in the Bale Mountains. Drive back to Addis Ababa (approx. 6-7 hours). Stop at Lake Ziway for additional birdwatching opportunities. Great White Pelican, African Darter, Pied Kingfisher, Marabou Stork and African Jacana. Return to Addis Ababa for a farewell dinner and transfer to the airport for departure.
Price Includes
- All transfers and ground transportation with fuel and driver allowance
- All entrance fees according to the program
- Accommodations and breakfast
- Bottles of drinking water throughout the tour
- Multilingual professional guide
Price Excludes
- Any flight (Domestic Flights can be arranged upon request)
- Lunch and Dinner
- Alcoholic drinks and Travel insurance
- Any other expenses which are not mentioned under what’s included section
