8 Days Ethiopian Birding Tour

Overview

This 8-day birding adventure explores Ethiopia’s richest habitats, from highland forests and Rift Valley lakes to savannas and wetlands. Spot a remarkable variety of endemic and migratory bird species, including the Blue-winged Goose, Ethiopian Wolf areas’ specialties, Wattled Ibis and Rouget’s Rail, alongside diverse mammals and stunning landscapes. Guided by expert birding guides, this tour offers exceptional wildlife viewing combined with scenic drives and cultural encounters perfect for both serious birders and nature lovers.

Day 1: Addis Ababa – Lake Langano | Rift Valley Birding

Morning drive south through the Ethiopian Rift Valley. Birding stops at Lake Koka and Lake Ziway to spot Crowned and Common Cranes, African Fish Eagle, Kingfishers, Jacanas, and Lapwings.
Overnight lakeside resort.

Day 2: Langano – Abijata–Shalla National Park – Awassa

Morning drive to Abijata–Shalla National Park, a prime breeding and feeding ground for Flamingos, Pelicans, Cormorants, Storks, and other waterbirds. Continue to Awassa.
Overnight hotel.

Day 3: Awassa – Wondo Genet | Forest & Lake Birding

Early morning birding along Lake Awassa, spotting Saddle-billed Stork, Malachite and Giant Kingfishers. Later drive to Wondo Genet Forest to see Black-headed Oriole, White-cheeked Turaco, and Senegal Coucal.
Overnight hotel.

Day 4: Awassa – Bale Mountains National Park

Drive to Bale Mountains National Park. Stop at Dinsho Headquarters to observe endemic species such as Wattled Ibis and Rouget’s Rail. Continue to Goba.
Overnight hotel.

Day 5: Bale Mountains National Park | Alpine & Forest Birding

Full-day birding in Bale. Explore Sanetti Plateau, the highest all-weather road in Africa, to see Blue-winged Goose and Black-headed Siskin. Continue to the Harenna Forest for Black-breasted Oriole and White-cheeked Turaco. Overnight hotel (Goba).

Day 6: Bale Mountains – Awash National Park

Drive to Awash National Park via Asela and Bekoji. En-route birding for raptors and highland species. Picnic lunch along the way. Overnight lodge/hotel.

Day 7: Awash National Park | Savannah Birding

Full-day birding in Awash, home to Tawny and Martial Eagles, Abyssinian and Lilac-breasted Rollers, Kori Bustard, Carmine Bee-eater, and Yellow-breasted Francolin.
Overnight lodge/hotel.

Day 8: Awash – Addis Ababa | Crater Lakes & Farewell

Drive back to Addis Ababa, stopping at Debre Zeit crater lakes for final birding. Evening farewell cultural dinner at a traditional restaurant.