Duration
10-Day
Bale Mountains National Park, Ethiopia
10-Day Visit Bale Mountain, Omo Valley & City Tour
Overview
Discover the highlights of Addis Ababa on a private city tour. Visit the National Museum of Ethiopia, the Ethnological Museum, and the Addis Mercato. You'll trek in five distinct and unique habitats: the Northern Grasslands, Northern Woodlands, Afro-alpine Meadows, Erica Moorlands, and the Harenna Forest. Visiting the communities of the Omo Valley is a privilege.
Plan snapshot
Quick Facts
Route
Addis Ababa to Addis Ababa
Via Bale Mountains NP, Turmi (Lower Omo Valley), Jinka (Lower Omo Valley)
Country & park
Ethiopia / Bale Mountains National Park
Style
Safari
Group size
1-12 travelers
Starts
Any day if available
Minimum age
2 years
Activities
Getting around: boat, normal 4x4 vehicle & air transfer
Accommodation
Trinity Hotel - Mid-range hotel in Addis Ababa (City) – Breakfast Included
Meals
Breakfast Included; All Meals Included
Pickup
Airport transfer included
Booking
Request quote
Currency
USD
Rates
Rates Per Person
USD
Start datesSingle2+ people
Jan 1, 2026 - Dec 31, 2026
n/a* USD
$2,530 USD
Jan 1, 2027 - Dec 31, 2027
n/a* USD
$2,530 USD
Before booking
Important To Know
This tour is not available to solo travelers.
Rates are per person and exclude the international flight from/to your home country.
This tour is offered in US dollars (USD).
This tour accepts children who are 2 years and older. Children under 3 are free.
Rates include a fixed budget for flights during this tour. Flights may cost more, depending on travel dates. If so, your quote will reflect this.
Quote flow
Request Guidance
We advise requesting quotes from 3 operators ()
Requests are sent directly to the tour operator
If preferred, you can contact the tour operator directly
Route
country
Ethiopia
Start
Addis Ababa (Day 1)
Day 2-5
Bale Mountains NP
Day 6-8
Turmi (Lower Omo Valley)
Day 9
Jinka (Lower Omo Valley)
End
Addis Ababa (Day 10)
Tour Features
Budget tour
This budget tour includes camping and lodges.
Private tour
This tour will be organized exclusively for you. However, wildlife viewing activities are run by the lodges/camps and will be shared with others.
Can start any day
If availability permits, this tour can start on any day.
Can be customized
You can request minor changes to the accommodations and destinations of this tour.
Not for solo travelers
Solo travelers cannot book this private tour.
2
Minimum age of 2 years
The minimum age for this tour is 2 years.
Activities & Transportation
Getting around: boat, normal 4x4 vehicle & air transfer
Book your own international flights when using this operator
A transfer from and back to the airport is included
Accommodation & Meals
Day 1
Trinity Hotel
Mid-range hotel in Addis Ababa (City) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 2-5
Budget camping Inside Bale Mountains NP – All Meals Included
Inside Bale Mountains NP – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 6-8
Emerald Lodge Turmi Mid-range lodge in Turmi (Lower Omo Valley) – Breakfast Included +11 Photos +10 Photos
Mid-range lodge in Turmi (Lower Omo Valley) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 9
Nasa Hotel Budget hotel in Jinka (Lower Omo Valley) – Breakfast Included
Budget hotel in Jinka (Lower Omo Valley) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 10
End of tour
(No accommodation)
Breakfast Included
Day By Day
Tour step
Arrival
You'll be collected from the airport. Accommodation before the tour starts can be arranged for an extra cost.
Day 1
Arrival in Addis Ababa & City Tour
Arrival in Addis Ababa & City Tour Morning / Arrival: Meet and greet at Bole International Airport, Addis Ababa. Transfer to your hotel for a short refreshment. City Tour Highlights: Ethnological Museum – Located within the former palace of Emperor Haile Selassie, showcasing Ethiopia’s diverse cultures. Mercato – Africa’s largest open-air market, a vibrant place to experience Ethiopian daily life. Entoto Hill – Panoramic views over the capital and visit to the historic St. Mary’s Church. Overnight: Addis Ababa. Mid-range hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Addis Ababa (City) Stay: Trinity Hotel Mid-range hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 2
Addis Ababa – Bale Mountains (Dinsho Headquarters)
Addis Ababa – Bale Mountains (Dinsho Headquarters) Morning: Depart early from Addis Ababa and driving south toward Bale Mountains National Park (approx. 7–8 hours). The route offers spectacular Rift Valley scenery, lakes, and farmlands. Afternoon: Arrive at Dinsho, the park headquarters. Receive an introduction to the park and enjoy a leisurely hike in the surrounding Hagenia–Juniper forest. Wildlife Highlights: Menelik’s Bushbuck, Mountain Nyala (both endemic mammals). Birdwatching: Wattled Ibis, Spot-Breasted Lapwing, Rouget’s Rail, Blue-Winged Goose, Abyssinian Long Claw. Overnight: Camping at Dinsho. Inside Bale Mountains NP All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Bale Mountains National Park Stay: Budget camping Inside Bale Mountains NP Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 3
Trek to Sodota
Trek to Sodota Morning: Begin trekking from Dinsho through Afro-alpine vegetation. Look for Mountain Nyala, Bushbuck, and bird species unique to the region. Midday Break: Stop at Habera Waterfall, a scenic picnic spot perfect for photography and relaxation. Afternoon: Continue trekking to Sodota, with chances to spot the elusive Ethiopian Wolf, Africa’s rarest canid. Trekking Duration: 6–7 hours. Overnight: Camping at Sodota. Inside Bale Mountains NP All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Bale Mountains National Park Stay: Budget camping Inside Bale Mountains NP Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 4
Trek to Wasama
Trek to Wasama Morning: Depart from Sodota toward Wasama, crossing breathtaking highland scenery. Pass through the Mararo Valley, a known nesting area for Lammergeyer (Bearded Vulture) and Verreaux’s Eagles. Wildlife Encounters: Ethiopian Wolf, various raptors, and endemic rodents. Trekking Duration: 5–6 hours. Overnight: Camping at Wasama. Inside Bale Mountains NP All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Bale Mountains National Park Stay: Budget camping Inside Bale Mountains NP Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 5
Trek to Gebre Gurracha via Mt Wasama
Trek to Gebre Gurracha via Mt Wasama Morning: Begin the ascent of Mt. Wasama (4,200m), the highest point of your trek, offering panoramic views of the Bale Mountains plateau. Midday Break: Descend into the Worgona Valley, teeming with birdlife such as falcons, eagles, and endemic species. Afternoon: Arrive at Lake Gebre Gurracha (“Black Lake”), a serene and dramatic crater lake ideal for relaxation. Trekking Duration: 6–7 hours. Overnight: Camping at Gebre Gurracha. Inside Bale Mountains NP All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Bale Mountains National Park Stay: Budget camping Inside Bale Mountains NP Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 6
Return to Addis Ababa
Return to Addis Ababa Morning: Early breakfast by the lake, followed by a drive back to Addis Ababa via Dinsho. Optional Stop: Visit a local town or community en route for lunch and a cultural experience. Evening: Arrive in Addis Ababa and transfer to your hotel. Overnight: Addis Ababa. Mid-range lodge located in Turmi (Lower Omo Valley) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Turmi (Lower Omo Valley) Stay: Emerald Lodge Turmi Mid-range lodge located in Turmi (Lower Omo Valley) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 7
Fly to Jinka – Visit Hamer Village
Fly to Jinka – Visit Hamer Village Morning: Transfer to the airport for your flight to Jinka. Upon arrival, drive to Turmi, home of the Hamer people. Afternoon: Visit a Hamer village to experience their unique customs, hairstyles, and traditional attire. Overnight: Turmi. Mid-range lodge located in Turmi (Lower Omo Valley) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Turmi (Lower Omo Valley) Stay: Emerald Lodge Turmi Mid-range lodge located in Turmi (Lower Omo Valley) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 8
Visit Dasanech & Kara Peoples
Visit Dasanech & Kara Peoples Morning: Cross the Omo River by boat to visit the Dasanech people, known for their unique culture and adaptation to the harsh environment. Afternoon: Visit the Kara (or Karo) people, famous for their intricate body painting along the Omo River banks. Overnight: Turmi. Mid-range lodge located in Turmi (Lower Omo Valley) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Turmi (Lower Omo Valley) Stay: Emerald Lodge Turmi Mid-range lodge located in Turmi (Lower Omo Valley) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 9
Visit Mursi at Key Afer – Drive to Jinka
Visit Mursi at Key Afer – Drive to Jinka Morning: Drive to Key Aferto meet the Mursi people, renowned for their lip plates and distinctive scarification. Afternoon: Return to Jinka and enjoy the town’s market or museum if time permits. Overnight: Jinka. Budget hotel located in Jinka (Lower Omo Valley) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Jinka (Lower Omo Valley) Stay: Nasa Hotel Budget hotel located in Jinka (Lower Omo Valley) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 10
Fly Back to Addis Ababa
Fly Back to Addis Ababa This Day is your Last day of the lovely trip. Transfer to the airport for your flight back to Addis Ababa. Afternoon Optional shopping at local handicraft stores or a farewell coffee ceremony. Evening: Depart Ethiopia or continue to your next destination. Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: No major destination visited Stay: No accommodation (End of tour) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Tour step
End of tour
Additional accommodation can be arranged for an extra cost. You'll be dropped off at the airport.
Included
Park fees (For non-residents)
All activities (Unless labeled as optional)
All accommodation (Unless listed as upgrade)
Camping equipment
A professional driver/guide
All transportation (Unless labeled as optional)
All flights during the tour
All Taxes/VAT
Roundtrip airport transfer
Meals (As specified in the day-by-day section)
Drinking water (On all days)
Sleeping bag
Bath towels
Excluded
International flights (From/to home)
Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
Tips (Tipping guideline US$10.00 pp per day)
Personal items (Souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)
Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees
Some meals (As specified in the day-by-day section)
Getting There
This tour starts and ends in Addis Ababa
Book your own international flights when using this operator
Fly to/from Addis Ababa Bole International Airport (ADD - Check price)
A transfer from and back to the airport is included
Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour can be arranged for an extra cost
Offered by
Essence Ethiopia Tours
5.0 operator rating
80 reviews
We always offer you an itinerary that is personally tailored to your needs at competitive prices. We are passionate about creating exciting and unique trips with our customers at the heart. Our specially crafted itineraries include historic routes, cultural tours, short holiday stays, business trips, one-day excursions, trekking and wildlife expeditions – according to your needs and budget.
Office In
Ethiopia
Size
10-20 employees (Founded in 2018)
Tour Types
Custom budget & mid-range tours that can start every day
Destinations
Ethiopia
Traveler feedback
Reviews
Overall
5.0/5Communication
5.0/5Accuracy
5.0/5Value
5.0/5Safety clarity
5.0/5Cultural value
5.0/5He is very helpful
Overall, my trip with this company was excellent. All the activities and sites listed were fully covered during the journey, and most importantly, they were very flexible with the traveler’s wishes—whether you want to change something or cancel an activity. They have excellent tour guides who speak fluent English, and the prices are suitable for all budgets. In the end, I highly recommend this company. Thank you.
Abdelaziz · United Arab Emirates
Exceptional
This is a great tour company! Tsahaynew knows so much and shares it easily with his guests. He is extremely friendly and accommodating. You won't regret using him for your tour!
Don · United States
Tension Free Travel
Essence Ethiopia and Mr Tsechay referred by one of my friend ,But from the first WhatsApp Message to End other tour he did a greate coordination and Tension free travel. He was really concerned about the small things that could be missed from our side. Even reminder of early flights and time lines.i Strongly recommend this team if any of you planning to Visit Ethiopia. All the best Essence Ethiopia
Sanu Sivashankar · Qatar
Well-organized tour
The tour was well organized. Big pros: When any issues arose, the organizer immediately intervened and rectified the situation. Points: 3-star hotels. All were clean, with showers, breakfast included. Transfers: I was met and seen off everywhere, and they helped with our luggage. There was a slight hitch when we arrived in Ethiopia at the airport. I expected to be met at the arrivals exit (this is usually the case). It turned out I had to exit the airport and walk to the parking lot, which I should have mentioned in advance. Transportation: I had private tours around Addis Ababa. The vehicle was clean and good. Around the salt lake, we traveled in a large Land Cruiser, with a driver and three tourists. No problems at all. Guides: Guides with good English. Both the guides and drivers were friendly, helpful, informative, and answered questions. No tips were required. Everything was fine. Additionally: In the area of the volcano and salt lake, you have to sleep outside. I even liked it – the view of the star is stunning. Cons: no shower or proper toilet.
Evgeny · Russia
Practical answers
Tour FAQs
Are rates charged per person?
Rates are per person and exclude the international flight from/to your home country.
Which currency is this tour priced in?
This tour is offered in US dollars (USD).
Can children join this tour?
This tour accepts children who are 2 years and older. Children under 3 are free.
Can this tour start on my preferred date?
If availability permits, this tour can start on any day.
Can the itinerary be customized?
You can request minor changes to the accommodations and destinations of this tour.
Where do travelers stay during this tour?
Trinity Hotel - Mid-range hotel in Addis Ababa (City) – Breakfast Included. Meals: Breakfast Included
Where does this tour start and end?
This tour starts and ends in Addis Ababa
Are airport transfers included?
A transfer from and back to the airport is included
Operator policy
Terms and Conditions
Disclaimer
This tour is offered by Essence Ethiopia Tours, not SafariBookings.
This operator reserves the right to change rates advertised on SafariBookings.
If you request changes to this tour, the advertised rates will likely change.
Rates include a fixed budget for flights during this tour. If flights cost more, your quote will reflect this.
The exact order, contents and rates of this tour are subject to availability.
If an accommodation is fully booked, the operator will suggest a comparable alternative.
This tour is subject to the terms & conditions of Essence Ethiopia Tours.
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