7 Days Trekking in Ethiopia's Bale Mountains

7 Days Trekking in Ethiopia's Bale Mountains

Bale Mountains National Park is Located 400 km southeast of Addis Ababa.  Contains a spectacularly diverse landscape. The high altitude, afro-montane Sanetti Plateau rises to over 4,000 m and includes the highest peak in the southern Ethiopia highlands. This undulating plateau is marked by numerous glacial lakes and swamps and surrounded by higher volcanic ridges and peaks. The southern slopes are covered by the lush and largely unexplored Harenna Forest. Bale Mountains National Park is the ultimate destination for hikers, wildlife watchers, culture and nature enthusiasts, bird watchers and more!. This trekking tour is applicable in seven days and six nights of stay. Since most of our nights are in camping, all the necessary equipment are included. Beside Mountain guide, park Scout, camp Cook and mule Tender are also provided. Mules or horses carry all equipment including luggage.

Day 1: Addis Ababa to Bale Mountains National Park

Drive from Addis to the Bale Mountains National Park.  Arrive at the park headquarters in the afternoon, in time for a leisurely afternoon hike, possibly spotting two endemic mammals that frequent the area: Menelik's Bushbuck and the Mountain Nyala.  Birds in this area include the Blue-Winged Goose, the Spot-Breasted Lapwing, the Abyssinian Long Claw, the Wattle Ibis, the Black-Headed Siskin, Rouget’s Rail, and numerous other species. Overnight Camping

Day 2: Trekking Bale Mountains National Park

Starting from Dinsho, trek to Adelay via the Geysay Valley and the Web River, viewing the Web waterfall along the way. During the hike, there will be wonderful chances to see the Mountain Nyala, Menelik’s Bushbuck, Bohor Reedbuck, and possibly Colobus Monkeys. Trekking will take 4-5 hours. Overnight Camping

Day 3: Trekking Bale Mountains National Park

Trek to Wasama through a beautiful landscape with stunning views.  Pass through Mararo Valley where the Lammergeyer and Verraux Eagles keep nests. There will also be a chance of seeing the Ethiopian Wolf and other species of birds. Trekking will take 7-8 hours. Overnight Camping

Day 4: Trekking Bale Mountains National Park

Start the day by hiking up Mt. Wasama (4200m) and then continue down into the Worgona Valley. Falcons, raptors, and possibly the Ethiopian Wolf will be visible. End the day at Lake Gebre Gurracha, meaning “black lake” in the Oromic language. Trekking will take 7-8 hours.

Overnight Camping

Day 5: Sanetti Plateau

Take a short trek from Gebre Gurracha up to the Sanetti Plateau to meet vehicles. Explore the Sanetti Plateau by car. This is the best place in Ethiopia to view the Ethiopian wolf. Overnight Hotel

Day 6: Harenna Forest

Drive to the Harenna Forest. This is in the southern end of the park and holds a unique variety of vegetation. The Harenna Escarpment towers 2000m above the edge of the forest and provides stunning views. Return to Goba for the night. Overnight Hotel

Day 7: Bale Mountains National Park - Addis Ababa

Drive back to Addis Ababa having scenic views on the way at Rift Valley Lakes. Enjoy dinner at a traditional Ethiopian restaurant featuring dancers and musicians representing some of the country's many ethnic groups. Transfer to airport for late night departure or additional hotel nights booked upon request.