Exploring the Bale Mountains of Ethiopia offers an extraordinary opportunity for nature enthusiasts. This 6-day trekking and wildlife spotting tour promises to immerse travelers in a world of rare and endangered species, from the elusive Ethiopian wolf to the captivating Black Lion. With stunning landscapes ranging from Afro-alpine moorland to lush forests, the tour provides a chance to witness the region’s unique biodiversity firsthand. Priced from $900 per person, the tour includes accommodations, meals, and expert local guides, ensuring a seamless and enriching experience. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a budding conservationist, this tour may just be the adventure you’ve been searching for.
Good To Know
- This 6-day tour in Bale Mountains offers unparalleled opportunities to spot rare and endangered wildlife like the Ethiopian wolf, Black Lion, and Mountain Nyala.
- The tour includes accommodation, transportation, meals, entrance fees, and local guides, allowing visitors to focus on exploring the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife.
- Trekkers can expect to witness a rich variety of endemic bird species, including the Lammergeyer and Verraux’s Eagle, while immersed in the Afro-alpine moorland and Harenna Forest.
- Overnight stays at various campsites, ranging from 3,100 to 4,100 meters above sea level, provide a rustic yet comfortable experience.
- The tour may not be suitable for all travelers due to the trekking and high-altitude conditions, and guests are advised to inform the operator of any medical conditions or allergies.
Tour Overview and Highlights
The Bale Mountain Trekking Tour is a 6-day excursion that allows travelers to explore the stunning Bale Mountains and spot rare and endangered animals.
Priced from $900 per person, the tour offers free cancellation and a pay-later option.
Highlights include sightings of the Ethiopian wolf, Black Lion, Mountain Nyala, and endemic birds. Trekkers will enjoy birdwatching opportunities and witness breathtaking landscapes, from the Afro-alpine moorland to the Harenna Forest.
The tour includes accommodation, transportation, meals, entrance fees, and local guide services.
Certain health and safety precautions apply, and travelers are advised to pack appropriate gear.
Seamless communication and pickup arrangements are provided for a smooth experience.
Itinerary Summary
The 6-day Bale Mountain Trekking Tour kicks off with a drive from Addis Ababa to the Bale Mountains, where travelers visit the Dinsho Headquarters and spot endemic mammals and birds. The next day, they trek from Dinsho to Habera, spotting the Ethiopian Wolf and endemic birds along the way. On the third day, the trek continues to Wassema, with opportunities to view Lammergeyer and Verraux Eagles. The fourth day takes them to the Sanneti Plateau, where they hike through Afro-alpine Moorland. On the fifth day, they drive to Harenna Forest to spot the Ethiopian Wolf and Bale Monkey. The tour concludes with a morning hike in Harenna Forest and a drive to Robe for the flight back to Addis Ababa.
| Day | Destination | Distance (km) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Dinsho Campsite (3100m asl) | – |
| 2 | Habera Campsite (3500m asl) | 18 |
| 3 | Wassema Camping (3900m asl) | 18 |
| 4 | Sanneti Campsite (4100m asl) | – |
| 5 | Wabe Shabale Hotel | – |
Included Services
The Bale Mountain Trekking Tour includes a range of services to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience for travelers.
The tour package covers accommodation, ground transportation with a driver, and full-board meals. Guests can also expect all necessary entrance fees, local guide and scout services, and bottled water.
Alcoholic drinks are available for purchase. Tips for the guide and staff are included as well.
This comprehensive offering allows participants to focus on the stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and culture without having to worry about logistics.
The tour’s inclusions simplify the travel experience, enabling guests to make the most of their time in the Bale Mountains.
Important Information
It’s important to note that this tour may not be suitable for all travelers.
The trekking and high-altitude conditions of the Bale Mountains make it unsuitable for wheelchair users, individuals with respiratory issues, babies under 1 year, and those over 95 years old.
Guests should come prepared with comfortable shoes and warm clothing. Binoculars are also recommended for better wildlife viewing.
Certain activities are prohibited, such as alcohol and drug use, feeding animals, making excessive noise, and starting fires.
Travelers should inform the tour operator of any allergies or medical conditions before booking to ensure necessary precautions are taken.
Communication and Pickup Details
Guests are greeted at the airport by a guide or driver from the tour company, who’ll be holding a sign with the company logo or the client’s name for seamless communication.
To ensure a smooth experience, the company encourages guests to:
- Contact them via WhatsApp or email before the tour begins
- Provide any necessary details, such as allergies, ahead of time
- Coordinate the pickup logistics with the team for a seamless start to the adventure.
The tour company prioritizes open communication and personalized attention, ensuring that every guest’s needs are met throughout the Bale Mountain trekking and wildlife spotting experience.
Rare and Endangered Animals
One of the key highlights of this Bale Mountain trekking tour is the opportunity to spot rare and endangered wildlife species.
The region is home to the iconic Ethiopian wolf, the world’s rarest canid, as well as the elusive Black Lion and the majestic Mountain Nyala.
Birdwatchers will delight in the abundance of endemic birds, including the striking Lammergeyer and the powerful Verraux’s Eagle.
Other unique animals, like the giant mole-rat and the Bale monkey, can also be observed during the trek.
This immersive wildlife experience allows travelers to appreciate the biodiversity and conservation efforts in the Bale Mountains National Park.
Birdwatching Opportunities
The Bale Mountains National Park teems with an array of endemic and migratory birds, promising a delightful birdwatching experience for avid enthusiasts.
Trekkers on this tour can spot numerous species, including:
- Raptors like the Lammergeyer and Verreaux’s Eagle, soaring gracefully above the rugged terrain.
- Endemic birds such as the Bale Parisoma and Abyssinian Catbird, found only in the Bale Mountains.
- A diverse range of songbirds and waterfowl, adding to the vibrant tapestry of avian life in the region.
With binoculars and keen eyes, explorers can enjoy the rich avian diversity of this extraordinary ecosystem.
Campsite Details
Dotting the rugged Bale Mountains landscape are the carefully selected campsites that accommodate trekkers on this tour.
Campers will spend the night at Dinsho Campsite (3100m asl) on the first day, Habera Campsite (3500m asl) on the second day, and Wassema Camping (3900m asl) on the third day.
The tour culminates with a stay at the Sanneti Campsite (4100m asl) as trekkers explore the Afro-alpine Moorland.
These basic yet comfortable sites provide shelter, warmth, and proximity to the region’s diverse wildlife.
Trekkers must bring their own camping gear, as the tour doesn’t provide equipment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Snacks on the Trek?
Guests are welcome to bring their own snacks and food items on the trek. However, it’s important to note that full-board meals are included in the tour, so bringing additional provisions may not be necessary. The tour operator advises checking with them before the trip.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour or Add Extra Activities?
Yes, the tour operator offers an option to extend the tour or add extra activities, such as visiting additional sites or participating in cultural experiences. Guests can inquire about these customization options when booking the tour.
What Measures Are in Place for the Safety and Security of the Group?
The tour operator takes extensive safety precautions, including a trained guide, scout, and driver, as well as rules prohibiting alcohol, noise, and interfering with the wildlife. Guests with respiratory issues or other concerns should inform the operator prior to booking.
Can I Request a Private Tour or Customize the Itinerary?
Yes, travelers can request a private tour or customize the itinerary. The tour operator allows flexibility to accommodate individual preferences and needs, ensuring a personalized experience for each guest.
What Type of Transportation Is Used for the Tour?
The tour uses private transport with a fuel-efficient vehicle and driver. Guests are picked up from the airport and transported to the Bale Mountains for the trekking and wildlife spotting activities throughout the itinerary.
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The Sum Up
The 6-Days Bale Mountain Trekking and Wildlife Spotting Tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in Ethiopia’s stunning natural landscapes and witness the incredible diversity of its rare and endangered wildlife. From the elusive Ethiopian wolf to the captivating Black Lion, this tour provides a once-in-a-lifetime experience for nature enthusiasts seeking an authentic and conservation-focused adventure.