Duration
12-Day
Abijatta-Shalla National Park, Ethiopia
12-Day Ethiopia Wildlife and Birding Safari Journey
Overview
You will explore Ethiopia's spectacular birdlife on this 10-day adventure from the Rift Valley lakes to the Bale Mountains and southern savannahs. You will witness rare endemic birds, stunning landscapes, and unique wildlife across diverse habitats in one unforgettable journey.
Plan snapshot
Quick Facts
Route
Addis Ababa to Addis Ababa (City)
Via Lake Langano, Abijatta-Shalla NP, Bale Mountains NP
Country & park
Ethiopia / Abijatta-Shalla National Park
Style
Safari
Group size
1-12 travelers
Starts
Any day if available
Minimum age
4 years
Activities
walking safaris (with an armed guide), specialized birding (with a professional birding guide), nature hikes/walks & boat trip
Accommodation
Sabana Beach Resort - Mid-range resort at Lake Langano – All Meals Included
Meals
All Meals Included; Breakfast & Lunch Included
Pickup
Airport transfer included
Booking
Request quote
Currency
USD
Rates
Rates Per Person
USD
Start datesSingle2+ people
Jan 1, 2026 - Dec 31, 2026
$2,750 USD
$2,310 USD
Jan 1, 2027 - Dec 31, 2027
$2,750 USD
$2,310 USD
Before booking
Important To Know
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 4 years and older. Children under 18 receive a discount and children under 8 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 1
Lake Langano
Day 2
Abijatta-Shalla NP
Day 3-5
Bale Mountains NP
Day 6-8
Yabello WS (Wildlife Sanctuary)
Day 9-10
Awasa (City)
Day 11
Gibe Valley NP
End
Addis Ababa (City) (Day 12)
Tour Features
Budget tour
This budget tour uses resorts and hotels.
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.
Suitable for solo travelers
Solo travelers can book this private tour.
4
Minimum age of 4 years
The minimum age for this tour is 4 years.
Activities & Transportation
Activities: walking safaris (with an armed guide), specialized birding (with a professional birding guide), nature hikes/walks & boat trip
Getting around: 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
Sabana Beach Resort
Mid-range resort at Lake Langano – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 2
Sabana Beach Resort
Mid-range resort less than 1hr drive from Abijatta-Shalla NP – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 3-5
Wabe Shebelle Hotel Goba Budget hotel less than 1hr drive from Bale Mountains NP – All Meals Included
Budget hotel less than 1hr drive from Bale Mountains NP – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 6-8
Yabello Motel Budget hotel near Yabello WS (Wildlife Sanctuary) – All Meals Included
Budget hotel near Yabello WS (Wildlife Sanctuary) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 9
Haile Resort Hawassa
Mid-range resort in Awasa (City) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 10
The Grand Palace Suites-Hotel
Luxury hotel in Addis Ababa (City) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 11
Saro Maria Hotel
Mid-range hotel in Addis Ababa (City) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 12
End of tour
(No accommodation)
Breakfast & Lunch 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
Addis Ababa to Lake Langano-Valley Wetlands & Waterbird Spectacle
You'll depart from Addis Ababa and descend into the scenic Great Rift Valley, a haven for birdwatchers. Along the way, you'll stop at Koka Dam and the Awash River floodplains to spot African Pygmy Goose, Black-billed Woodhoopoe, Abyssinian Ground Hornbill, Collared Pratincole, and Little Weaver. You'll continue to Lake Ziway, where vast flocks of Yellow-billed Storks, Lesser and African Jacanas, White Pelicans, Fish Eagles, and Crowned and Common Cranes create an unforgettable spectacle. By afternoon, you'll arrive at Lake Langano, a serene freshwater lake bordered by acacia woodland. You'll enjoy an evening bird walk along the shore, looking for Black-winged Lovebird, Silvery-cheeked Hornbill, and Abyssinian Slaty Flycatcher. Main Activities: Scenic drive through the Rift Valley, wetland birdwatching at Koka Dam and Lake Ziway, evening lakeside walk at Langano. Overnight: Lodge on the shores of Lake Langano. Mid-range resort located at Lake Langano All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Destination: Lake Langano Stay: Sabana Beach Resort Mid-range resort located at Lake Langano Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 2
Lake Langano to Abijatta Shalla National Park Flamingos Raptors and Rift Valley Wonders
You'll spend the day exploring Abijatta–Shalla National Park, one of Ethiopia’s most productive birding areas. Start at Lake Abijatta, an alkaline lake where thousands of Greater and Lesser Flamingos gather, creating a spectacular pink shimmer across the water. Keep an eye out for Yellow Wagtails, Chestnut-bellied Sandgrouse, and African Marsh Harriers. Next, you'll visit Lake Shalla, Ethiopia’s deepest lake at 260 meters, with dramatic cliffs hosting African Fish Eagles, Great Cormorants, Herons, and Ibis. Between the lakes, acacia woodlands provide habitat for Rollers, Wheatears, and Abyssinian Ground Hornbills. The diversity of wetlands, cliffs, and woodlands supports over 300 bird species, making this a highlight for any birdwatcher. Main Activities: Full-day birding at Lake Abijatta and Lake Shalla, raptor spotting, and walking through woodland corridors. Overnight: Lodge near Lake Langano. Mid-range resort located less than 1hr drive from Abijatta-Shalla NP All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Destination: Abijatta-Shalla National Park Stay: Sabana Beach Resort Mid-range resort located less than 1hr drive from Abijatta-Shalla NP Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 3
Lake Langano to Bale Mountains Highland Birds and Wildlife
You'll drive southeast from Lake Langano, ascending into the Bale Mountains National Park, Africa’s #4 birding destination. Along the way, you'll enjoy the scenic transition from Rift Valley lowlands to highland juniper forests. In the afternoon, you'll take a leisurely hike near Dinsho Headquarters, searching for endemic birds such as Blue-winged Goose, Wattled Ibis, Spot-breasted Lapwing, Abyssinian Longclaw, Rouget’s Rail, and Black-headed Siskin. Mammal highlights in the area include Menelik’s Bushbuck and the rare Mountain Nyala grazing near forest edges. Main Activities: Scenic drive into the highlands, afternoon hike for highland birding, and spotting endemic mammals. Overnight: Goba Hotel. Budget hotel located less than 1hr drive from Bale Mountains NP All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Destination: Bale Mountains National Park Stay: Wabe Shebelle Hotel Goba Budget hotel located less than 1hr drive from Bale Mountains NP Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 4
Gaysay Grasslands and Juniper Forests Birding Adventure
Explore the northern Bale Mountains today, a mosaic of grasslands, ancient juniper-hagenia forests, and Afro-alpine moorlands. Morning birding in the Gaysay Grasslands offers chances to see endemic Rouget’s Rail, Spot-breasted Lapwing, and grazing Bohor Reedbuck. In the juniper forests, search for elusive roosting owls such as Cape Eagle-Owl, Abyssinian Owl, and Montane Nightjar, with a possibility of African Wood Owl sightings. Other notable species include Thick-billed Raven, Abyssinian Catbird, Abyssinian Ground Thrush, White-collared Pigeon, and Montane White-eye. Main Activities: Morning grassland birding, forest walks for nightbirds and highland species, wildlife spotting. Overnight: Goba Hotel. Budget hotel located less than 1hr drive from Bale Mountains NP All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Destination: Bale Mountains National Park Stay: Wabe Shebelle Hotel Goba Budget hotel located less than 1hr drive from Bale Mountains NP Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 5
Sanetti Plateau and Harenna Forest Wolves and Highland Birds
You'll experience a full day exploring two contrasting landscapes of Bale Mountains National Park. You'll start at the Sanetti Plateau (up to 4,100m), Africa’s largest high-altitude plateau and home to the world’s largest population of the Ethiopian Wolf. Bird highlights include Blue-winged Goose, Chestnut-naped Francolin, Spot-breasted Lapwing, Moorland Francolin, and Wattled Crane. Raptors such as Steppe Eagle, Augur Buzzard, and Cape Eagle-Owl soar overhead, creating dramatic skies. In the afternoon, you'll descend into Harenna Forest, Ethiopia’s last remaining cloud forest. Look for Bale Monkey feeding in bamboo, Black-maned Lions (rare), and forest birds like Tacazze Sunbird, Abyssinian Crimsonwing, Sharpe’s Starling, and African Hill Babbler. Main Activities: Full-day highland and cloud forest birding, wildlife observation, scenic drives across dramatic landscapes. Overnight: Goba Hotel. Budget hotel located less than 1hr drive from Bale Mountains NP All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Destination: Bale Mountains National Park Stay: Wabe Shebelle Hotel Goba Budget hotel located less than 1hr drive from Bale Mountains NP Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 6
Bale Mountains to Yabello Arid Savannah Birds and Wildlife
You'll descend from the cool highlands into the arid landscapes of southern Ethiopia. The Borena lowlands and thornbush savannahs are home to highly localized bird species and unique wildlife. Along the route, you'll make stops to spot Three-streaked Tchagra, Foxy Lark, Red-naped Bushshrike, and Ruppell’s Weaver. Late afternoon birding near Yabello may reveal Von der Decken’s Hornbill, D’Arnaud’s Barbet, and Abyssinian Grosbeak Canary, adding to your growing checklist. Main Activities: Scenic drive from highlands to drylands, roadside birding stops, evening savannah bird walk. Overnight: Yabello Hotel. Budget hotel located near Yabello WS (Wildlife Sanctuary) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Destination: Yabello Wildlife Sanctuary (Wildlife Sanctuary) Stay: Yabello Motel Budget hotel located near Yabello WS (Wildlife Sanctuary) Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 7
Arero Forest and Mega Rare Turacos and Savannah Birds
You'll start early in Arero Forest, a global hotspot for Ethiopia’s rarest endemic bird, Prince Ruspoli’s Turaco. Other species include Golden-breasted Starling, Sidamo Lark, Somali Short-toed Lark, White-tailed Swallow, and Stresemann’s Bushcrow. In the afternoon, you'll drive to Mega, exploring lava plains and isolated hills for endangered species such as Black-fronted Spurfowl, Heuglin’s Bustard, Somali Bee-eater, Pringle’s Puffback, Bare-eyed Thrush, and Quail-plover. Mammals like Grevy’s Zebra and Gerenuk may also be spotted. Main Activities: Early morning forest birding, afternoon savannah and hill birding, wildlife observation along scenic routes. Overnight: Hotel in Mega or return to Yabello. Budget hotel located near Yabello WS (Wildlife Sanctuary) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Destination: Yabello Wildlife Sanctuary (Wildlife Sanctuary) Stay: Yabello Motel Budget hotel located near Yabello WS (Wildlife Sanctuary) Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 8
Yabello Wildlife Sanctuary Savannah Birds and Mammals
You'll spend the full day exploring Yabello Wildlife Sanctuary, an arid acacia savannah dotted with termite mounds and lava plains. This area is home to a wealth of arid-country specialists. Bird highlights include Somali Ostrich, Vulturine Guineafowl, Secretary Bird, Martial Eagle, Kori Bustard, Abyssinian Grosbeak Canary, Purple Grenadier, and Magpie Starling. Endemics such as White-tailed Swallow and Stresemann’s Bushcrow are also present. Mammals may include Burchell’s Zebra, Grant’s and Thomson’s Gazelles, Aardvark, and Lesser-spotted Genet. A picnic lunch in the bush adds to the safari experience before returning to Yabello. Main Activities: Full-day birding in savannah habitats, endemic species search, mammal spotting, and bush picnic. Overnight: Hotel in Yabello. Budget hotel located near Yabello WS (Wildlife Sanctuary) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Destination: Yabello Wildlife Sanctuary (Wildlife Sanctuary) Stay: Yabello Motel Budget hotel located near Yabello WS (Wildlife Sanctuary) Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 9
Yabello to Hawassa Rift Valley Wetlands and Lakes
You'll travel northwards from Yabello toward Lake Hawassa, stopping along the Rift Valley wetlands to spot diverse bird species. Look for Silvery-cheeked Hornbill, Woodland Kingfisher, Malachite Kingfisher, Spur-winged Goose, Marabou Stork, and Abyssinian Ground Hornbill. You'll arrive at Lake Hawassa, a freshwater lake supporting fishing communities and abundant birdlife. You'll take an evening walk along the shore to observe African Fish Eagle, Black-headed Heron, and other waterbirds in a beautiful sunset setting. Main Activities: Scenic drive with wetland birding stops, lakeside birdwatching, and evening stroll along Lake Hawassa. Overnight: Hotel in Hawassa. Mid-range resort located in Awasa (City) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Destination: Awasa (City) Stay: Haile Resort Hawassa Mid-range resort located in Awasa (City) Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 10
Drive from Hawassa to Addis Ababa Rift Valley Birds and Lakes
You'll start the morning with birdwatching at Hawassa Fish Market, observing Marabou Storks and Pelicans interacting with local fishermen. You'll continue north, revisiting Lake Ziway for final sightings of African Jacana, Lesser Jacana, White Pelicans, Fish Eagles, and Crowned and Common Cranes. You will enjoy the scenic drive through the Rift Valley, reflecting on the wide variety of birds and landscapes encountered throughout the tour. You'll arrive in Addis Ababa by late afternoon. Main Activities: Morning birding at Hawassa, lakeside birding at Lake Ziway, scenic drive through the Rift Valley. Overnight: Hotel in Addis Ababa. Luxury hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Destination: Awasa (City) Stay: The Grand Palace Suites-Hotel Luxury hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 11
Gibe Gorge Rare Birds and Scenic Exploration
You'll take a day trip to the Gibe Gorge area, about an hour west of Addis Ababa, renowned for its localized bird species. Search for Red-billed Pytilia and Abyssinian Waxbill, along with any other rare or missed species from earlier in the tour. The area’s dramatic landscapes and riverine habitats provide a unique backdrop for photography and wildlife observation. In the late afternoon, you will return to Addis Ababa and relax at your hotel. Main Activities: Birdwatching for rare and localized species, scenic photography, and riverside exploration. Overnight: Saro Maria Hotel, Addis Ababa. Mid-range hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Destination: Gibe Valley National Park Stay: Saro Maria Hotel Mid-range hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) Meals: All meals included Non-alcoholic drinks
Day 12
Addis Ababa City Tour Museums and Farewell
You will enjoy a morning city tour of Addis Ababa, visiting the National Museum (home to the Lucy fossil skeleton), the Ethnological Museum, and the scenic Entoto Hills. In the evening, you'll experience a traditional farewell dinner with music and dance showcasing Ethiopia’s rich cultural heritage. You'll conclude your journey with a transfer to the airport for your international departure. Main Activities: City sightseeing, cultural museum visits, farewell dinner with music and dance. Overnight: Not included (departure day). Breakfast & lunch (Dinner not included) Non-alcoholic drinks
Destination: Addis Ababa (City) Stay: No accommodation (End of tour) Meals: Breakfast & lunch (Dinner not included) Non-alcoholic drinks
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)
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)
Drinks (As specified in the day-by-day section)
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
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
Ethio Wildlife Tours
5.0 operator rating
7 reviews
Discover Ethiopia's wonders with us! Ethio Wildlife Tours: is a private Tour & Travel company, Established in Ethiopia,we offer unforgettable wildlife,cultural & historical tours. Our experienced teams specializes in creating unique experiences,showcasing the breathtaking beauty and rich diversity of Ethiopia.We are committed to responsible and sustainable tourism,ensuring minimal impact on the environment and local communities. Let us show you the true essence of Ethiopia 🇪🇹
Office In
Ethiopia
Size
5-10 employees (Founded in 2018)
Tour Types
Custom mid-range & luxury 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
5.0/5The nicest tour experience
I don’t usually like booking tours because of many bad experiences, however, at the time Ethiopia demanded it. I was so lucky to find Melashu’s company. It’s the most transparent, respectful, informative and well managed tour. I did the northern Ethiopian route (volcano, Danakil depression etc) and they managed to make me feel comfortable in a difficult weather environment and very safe in an area of conflict. It’s incredible to have such yummy food in the middle of nowhere! Thank you,
Yirka · Sweden
Organized and personalized
Great tour through an amazing landscape. Tour was perfectly organized, no complaints. Somewhere my shoes got lost but when I came back in Addes they were waiting for me in the hotel. Their service goes beyond. Thanks for that
Martijn · Netherlands
Our guide was fantastic — super knowledgeable, easygoing, and clearly respected by the communities.
Just got back from a 4-day tour with Ethio Wildlife and it honestly blew me away. We visited several different tribes in Omo valley and each day was completely unique and eye-opening. The whole trip felt very genuine and respectful, not staged or touristy at all. Accommodations were simple but clean and comfortable, and everything ran smoothly from start to finish. If you’re looking for something meaningful and way off the beaten path, I’d 100% recommend this experience. I came back with a full heart and a totally new perspective.
Elena Neal · United Kingdom
Organized and responsive
I contacted several tour operators in May 2025 hoping to join a group tour of the Simien mountains but since it is a slow tourist season there were none available. Ethio Wildlife were able to organize a private tour for me at a reasonable cost. They handled everything. The guide/driver/chef/scout were incredibly nice people and it was a pleasure to spend 3 days with them in the park. The guide in particular was very knowledgeable and accommodating.
Nick · United States
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 4 years and older. Children under 18 receive a discount and children under 8 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?
Sabana Beach Resort - Mid-range resort at Lake Langano – All Meals Included. Meals: All Meals 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 Ethio Wildlife 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.
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