Bale Mountains National Park
Destination
Duration
6
Activity Level
Active
The Bale Mountains, also referred to as the Urgoma Mountains is located in the southeast of Ethiopia. The park is part of the Ethiopian Highlands. The mountains cover 2200 square kilometers and the main attraction is the wild alpine scenery as well as the easily observed unique birds and wildlife. The mountains are home to the rare Ethiopia wolf. It is also great for a little trekking if you are looking for something more active.
Itinerary
1 Bale Mountains
Early in the morning, drive to Bale Mountains National Park, the richest afro-alpine vegetation in Africa. You’ll then visit the Dinsho area, park headquarters, and walk around to see some endemic mammals: Menelik’s Bushbuck, and Mountain Nyala. And birds Blue-winged goose, Spot-breasted lapwing, Abyssinian long claw, Wattled ibis, Black-headed siskin, Rouget’s rail, and of course other species, too. Then continue to Goba for the night. (8 hours of driving)
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging
Goba Wabishebele Hotel
2 Sof Omar Cave
Drive to Sof Omar cave which is made by the river Weib. The cave is 14 km long and it’s considered as a holy place in Islam. The landscape on your way and around is very interesting. Then return to Goba and then to the Bale Mountains Lodge, overnight lodge 3 nights. (7 hours of driving)
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging
Bale Mountains Lodge
3 Bale Mountains/Harena Forest
Today you’ll explore the area near the lodge together with the lodge’s expert guide.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging
Bale Mountain Lodge
4 Saneti Plateau
Today you’ll drive on to the Afro-Alpine setting of the Saneti Plateau, home to the endemic Simien Fox and the beautiful Spot-breasted plover. With some patience and a touch of luck, we should also be able to see the rare Wattled crane. Overnight Lodge. (drive time about 2 hours)
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging
Bale Mountain Lodge
5 Addis Ababa
Drive back to Addis Ababa via Assela Plains and the highway.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging
Saromaria or similar
6 Depart
Transfer to the airport for flight home or other extensions
Meals
Breakfast
What to Expect
Duration 6
Group Size 1-12
Activity Level
Active
2
Activity Level
Match the trip’s intensity to your ability and motivation.
Gentle
Easy walking, with opportunities for low-key physical activity.
Active
Energetic exploration with optional day hikes, leisurely cycling, or light canoeing.
Vigorous
Day-long active excursions and options for demanding activity in varied environments.
Challenging
Strenuous hiking or other intense activity that may be at high altitude or over rough terrain.
Demanding
Multi-day trekking and other activities requiring endurance or strength. Steep trails. No technical expertise necessary.