Embark on an extraordinary 10-day birding adventure in Ethiopia. Discover rare species, immerse yourself in stunning landscapes, and create memories that will soar above the rest. Get ready to spread your wings and join us on this captivating journey.
Day 1: Arrive in Addis Ababa & bird watching at Gefersa Reservoir
Welcome to Addis Ababa, the vibrant capital city of Ethiopia! Upon your arrival, I will meet you and accompany throughout your adventure.
After settling in at your hotel, we'll head to Gefersa Reservoir, a beautiful spot just outside the city. Gefersa Reservoir is known for its diverse birdlife, including a variety of water birds and migratory species.
After an exciting day of bird watching, we'll return to the hotel for a restful overnight stay.
Day 2: Drive to Awash, with stop at Nazareth for lunch & Lake Basaka for bird watching
Today, we embark on a scenic drive to Awash National Park, a haven for bird enthusiasts. En route, we'll make a stop in Nazareth for a delicious lunch, where you can savor the local flavors.
Afterward, we'll continue our journey, making a birding stop at Lake Basaka. Basaka is a fantastic birding spot with its lush vegetation and rich birdlife. Keep your binoculars ready to spot endemic species such as the Abyssinian Woodpecker, Black-winged Lovebird, and White-winged Cliff Chat.
In the evening, we'll reach Awash and settle in at our hotel for a comfortable overnight stay.
Day 3: Full day of bird watching at Awash National Park
This day is dedicated to exploring the wonders of Awash National Park, renowned for its diverse wildlife and bird species. We'll spend the entire day immersed in the park's beauty, traversing its grasslands, acacia woodlands, and riverine forests.
As we venture through the park, be prepared to encounter fascinating bird species like the Abyssinian Roller, Vulturine Guineafowl, Somali Ostrich, and the striking Secretarybird.
Awash National Park also provides opportunities to spot mammals such as Beisa Oryx, Soemmerring's Gazelle, and Olive Baboon.
After an exhilarating day, we'll retreat to our hotel for a well-deserved rest.
Day 4: Drive to Lake Langano with stops at Lake Koka & Lake Ziway for bird watching
Leaving Awash behind, we continue our birding expedition towards Lake Langano. Along the way, we'll make stops at Koka and Ziway Lakes, two picturesque locations renowned for their avian diversity.
Lake Koka offers sightings of water birds like the African Jacana, Pied Kingfisher, and Great White Pelican.
At Ziway, another lakeside gem, keep your eyes peeled for the beautiful Lesser Flamingo, African Fish Eagle, and Pink-backed Pelican.
We'll then proceed to Langano, where we'll spend the night at the comfortable Bekele Molla Hotel.
Day 5: Morning bird watching at Lake Abijata, afternoon Drive to Wondo Genet
We start the day with bird watching at Lake Abijata. As we explore the lake's surroundings, you may spot the rare and endangered Lesser Kestrel, the striking African Spoonbill, and the colorful Yellow-billed Stork.
In the afternoon, we'll drive to Wondo Genet, a scenic town famous for its hot springs and lush forests.
Upon arrival, we will check into our hotel and have the evening at leisure to relax and prepare for another exciting day of birding.
Day 6: Full day of bird watching around Wondo Genet
Today is dedicated to exploring the birdlife in and around Wondo Genet. This area is known for its pristine forests and abundant bird species, making it a paradise for birdwatchers.
After a rewarding day of bird watching, we'll return to our hotel in Wondo Genet for a peaceful overnight stay.
Day 7: Drive to Goba with a stop in a stop at Dinsho
Our journey continues as we drive to Goba, a town located near the Bale Mountains.
On the way, we'll make a stop at Dinsho. This is an excellent spot to search for both mammals and birds. Bird species such as the Wattled Ibis, Blue-winged Goose, and the Abyssinian Longclaw frequent this area.
After an eventful day of wildlife and bird watching, we'll reach Goba and settle in at our hotel for a comfortable overnight stay.
Day 8: Full day of bird watching around the Bale Mountains
Today promises to be an exciting day as we explore the breathtaking landscapes of the Bale Mountains. It is known for its high-altitude bird species, including the impressive Lammergeier, Abyssinian Catbird, and the endemic Blue-winged Goose.
During our game drives, we might also encounter charismatic mammals such as the Ethiopian Red Fox and Mountain Nyala.
After a thrilling day, we'll return to our hotel in Goba for a well-deserved rest.
Day 9: Drive to Awassa for bird watching
Leaving the mountains behind, we'll drive back to Awassa, a picturesque town located on the shores of Lake Awassa. As soon as we arrive, we'll waste no time and start birding along the lake's shoreline.
Lake Awassa is a haven for water birds and provides an ideal habitat for various species. Keep a lookout for the striking African Fish Eagle, Goliath Heron, and the African Pygmy Goose.
After a fulfilling day of bird watching, we'll check into our hotel in Awassa for a comfortable overnight stay.
Day 10: Drive back to Addis Ababa
On our final leg of the journey, we'll drive back to Addis Ababa, the bustling capital city. En route, we'll make stops at Lake Ziway for bird watching.
In the evening, we'll arrive in Addis Ababa and check into our hotel for a comfortable overnight stay, reminiscing about the incredible birding adventure we've had.
Departure day:
Transfer to the airport or any other place you need
It's time to say goodbye to the enchanting land of Ethiopia and its remarkable birdlife. After breakfast, we'll transfer you to the airport or any other place.
Included: tour guide; transfer during the tour; accommodation; 2-3 meals a day; water.
Not included: flights; alcoholic drinks.
If you have any additional requests or wish to extend your stay, we can assist you in making optional arrangements.