Overview

This comprehensive birding expedition explores Ethiopia’s exceptional avian diversity, targeting 30+ endemic and near-endemic species across varied habitats from Awash savannahs and Rift Valley lakes to the Afro alpine Bale Mountains and Borena lowlands. The tour combines world-class birding with scenic landscapes and rich wildlife, offering one of Africa’s finest birdwatching experiences.

Days 1–2: Addis Ababa – Awash National Park

Arrival in Addis Ababa and transfer to hotel. Drive to Awash National Park, birding savannahs, acacia woodland, and riverine habitats. Target species include Arabian Bustard, Gillett’s Lark, Somali Ostrich, diverse raptors and mammals such as oryx and baboons.

Days 3–4: Awash NP & Alideghe Wildlife Reserve

Extensive birding in prime arid habitats with highlights such as Scissor-tailed Kite, Abyssinian Roller, bustards, hornbills, sunbirds, and seasonal migrants.

Day 5: Awash – Lake Ziway

Rift Valley waterbird spectacle: African Pygmy Goose, storks, pelicans, jacanas, cranes, fish eagles, and terns.

Days 6–7: Lake Langano & Abijata–Shalla NP

Bird brackish and freshwater lakes plus acacia woodland. Possible sightings include Greater & Lesser Flamingos, hornbills, lovebirds, owls, sunbirds, and woodland specialists.

Day 8: Langano – Wondo Genet

Escarpment drive and forest birding at hot springs. Look for Yellow-fronted Parrot, Narina Trogon, Abyssinian Ground Thrush, and hornbills.

Days 9–10: Bale Mountains National Park

Highland and Afro-alpine birding around Dinsho and Sanetti Plateau. Key species include Blue-winged Goose, Spot breasted Lapwing, Ethiopian Wolf, Wattled Crane and alpine endemics.

Day 11: Bale – Awassa

Lake Awassa birding and fish market spectacle with pelicans, storks, gulls, kingfishers, and woodland birds.

Days 12–13: Awassa – Yabelo – Borena

Southern lowland birding highlights include Stresemann’s Bush Crow, Prince Ruspoli’s Turaco, White-tailed Swallow, and Borena endemics.

Day 14: Yabelo – Awassa

Return birding with wetland and woodland species en route.

Day 15: Gibe Gorge

Final intensive birding for specialties such as Red-billed Pytilia, sandgrouse, waxbills, and cliff-dwelling species.

Day 16: Addis Ababa – Departure

Return to Addis Ababa with birding stops en route. Farewell cultural dinner and airport transfer.

Price Includes

• Air-conditioned 4WD vehicle with fuel & driver allowance
• Professional English-speaking birding guide throughout
• All accommodation (15 nights)
• All meals and bottled water
• All park, reserve, and site entrance fees
• Local guides and scout fees where required
• Government taxes

Price Excludes

• Personal expenses
• Alcoholic drinks
• Tips and gratuities
• Any services not mentioned under inclusions