The morning air is fresh as you enter Arsi Mountains National Park, Ethiopia’s closest wildlife sanctuary to Addis. The rustling of acacia leaves signals the presence of Greater and Lesser Kudus, their sleek forms moving gracefully through the woodland. A distant roar echoes—the elusive Leopard, hidden among the thickets.

Birdsong fills the air as Helmeted Guineafowl scuttle across your path, their vibrant plumage catching the sunlight. With the call of Black Wood Hoopoes overhead, you leave Arsi and head toward Dinsho, the gateway to Bale Mountains National Park.

At Dinsho Park Headquarters, you catch your first glimpse of the majestic Mountain Nyala—an Ethiopian endemic, its spiraling horns making it one of Africa’s most striking antelopes. Nearby, Menelik’s Bushbuck cautiously emerges from the juniper forest, while the elusive Abyssinian Longclaw flits through the grasslands.

Accommodation: Nuu Robe Hotel

Today’s journey takes you to one of Ethiopia’s most surreal landscapes—Sof Omar Cave (15km), Africa’s longest cave system. As you enter, the Wabe River flows quietly beneath limestone chambers carved over millennia. The eerie silence is occasionally interrupted by the fluttering wings of Salvador’s Serin, a rare cave-dwelling bird.

Leaving the subterranean wonders, you ascend to Sanetti Plateau (4,377m), a vast Afro-Alpine landscape cloaked in mist. You scan the horizon, searching for the Ethiopian Wolf, Africa’s most endangered carnivore. Suddenly, a fiery-red figure appears against the golden moorland—an Ethiopian Wolf stalking Giant Mole Rats, its primary prey.

Nearby, Blue-winged Geese glide over alpine lakes, while Wattled Cranes patrol the marshes, their striking plumage a contrast to the moody mountain backdrop.

Accommodation: Nuu Robe Hotel

Descending into the Harenna Forest, you enter a world untouched by time. Mist weaves through towering wild fig trees, creating a mystical atmosphere as the calls of White-cheeked Turacos echo through the canopy.

You spot Bale Monkeys, endemic primates unique to this region, moving agilely through the dense foliage. In the shadows, the rare Menelik’s Bushbuck hides among ferns, its dark coat blending seamlessly into the undergrowth. The scent of damp earth and blooming orchids fills the air as you trek deeper, uncovering hidden waterfalls and Abyssinian Orioles dancing between the trees.

Accommodation: Nuu Robe Hotel

As the morning sun rises over the Ethiopian highlands, you set off toward Senkele Wildlife Sanctuary, a hidden gem in the Rift Valley. The golden grasslands stretch endlessly, creating a stunning contrast against the deep blue sky. As you arrive, the rhythmic pounding of hooves signals the presence of Swayne’s Hartebeest, one of Africa’s rarest antelopes. You watch in awe as these majestic creatures move gracefully across the plains, their reddish-brown coats glowing in the sunlight.

The sanctuary is also home to Grant’s Gazelles, Warthogs, and a variety of bird species, including the striking Abyssinian Ground Hornbill, which patrols the savannah with its deep, resonant calls. After a morning of wildlife encounters, you continue your journey toward Lake Langano, Ethiopia’s only bilharzia-free lake, perfect for swimming and relaxation.

Upon arrival, the tranquil waters of Langano shimmer under the afternoon sun. You take a moment to unwind at the lakeshore, listening to the calls of African Fish Eagles soaring overhead. As the day winds down, you settle into your lakeside lodge, enjoying a peaceful evening surrounded by nature.

Accommodation: Borati Lodge Resort

The morning begins with a scenic drive to Abijatta-Shalla National Park, a breathtaking landscape of volcanic formations and Rift Valley lakes. As you approach, the sight of thousands of Lesser Flamingos painting the water pink is mesmerizing. Their synchronized movements create a living masterpiece, reflecting the beauty of Ethiopia’s diverse ecosystems.

You explore the park’s dry savannah, where Ostriches, Warthogs, and Grant’s Gazelles roam freely. The volcanic terrain adds a dramatic backdrop to the wildlife encounters, making every moment feel like a scene from a nature documentary.

After soaking in the beauty of Abijatta-Shalla, you head to Lake Ziway, Ethiopia’s premier birdwatching destination. Here, you embark on a boat trip, gliding across the calm waters as Great White Pelicans drift lazily overhead. Suddenly, the surface ripples—a hippo pod emerges, their massive forms barely visible above the water. You watch as they bask in the shallows, their playful interactions offering a rare glimpse into their social behavior.

As the sun sets, you arrive at your hotel near Awash National Park, preparing for the next day’s thrilling safari.

Accommodation: Genet Hotel

Day 7: The Desert Kingdom of Awash & Alidegehi’s Secret Wilds

Today’s adventure takes you deep into Awash National Park, where Ethiopia’s semi-desert landscapes reveal their hidden wonders. The golden plains stretch endlessly, dotted with acacia trees and volcanic formations. As you begin your game drive, the sight of Beisa Oryx grazing beneath the morning sun is breathtaking. Their long, elegant horns make them one of the most striking antelopes in Africa.

Further into the park, you encounter Lesser Kudus, their spiral horns blending seamlessly with the dry bushland. The elusive Cheetah lurks in the shadows, waiting for the perfect moment to strike. You pause at Filwoha Hot Springs, where bubbling pools create an oasis in the desert. The contrast between the steaming water and the arid surroundings is surreal.

After lunch, you journey to Alidegehi Wildlife Reserve, a lesser-known sanctuary teeming with rare species. Here, you witness Grevy’s Zebras, their bold black-and-white stripes standing out against the dusty terrain. Somali Wild Ass, one of the world’s rarest equids, moves gracefully across the plains. As the sun dips below the horizon, you spot Caracal Wildcats, their sleek forms disappearing into the twilight.

Accommodation: Doho Lodge

Your final morning begins with an early wildlife safari in Alidegehi, where the desert awakens with life. Ostriches sprint across the open plains, their powerful legs kicking up dust. Giant Hornbills soar overhead, their massive wings casting shadows on the ground.

As you make your way back to Addis Ababa, the landscape transitions from arid wilderness to rolling highlands. Your journey concludes with a farewell cultural dinner, where you indulge in Ethiopia’s most renowned dishes—injera, doro wat, and tibs—while live traditional music fills the air. A mesmerizing Eskista dance brings your adventure full circle, celebrating the beauty and diversity of Ethiopia. End of Tour

Accommodation:None