Addis Ababa › Awassa › Bale Mountains › Harar
Embark on a captivating 9-day journey exploring the breathtaking landscapes and unique cultures of eastern and southern Ethiopia. From the bustling streets of Addis Ababa, travel to the serene Rift Valley lakes and ascend into the dramatic Bale Mountains to track the endangered Ethiopian wolf. Discover the majestic Sof Omar Caves, spot wildlife in Awash National Park, and immerse yourself in the rich Islamic heritage of Harar and the vibrant markets of Dire Dawa. This comprehensive tour blends spectacular wildlife encounters with unforgettable historical and cultural experiences.
On arrival Addis Ababa our representative will meet you at Bole international Airport and you will visit the diplomatic capital of Africa, headquarters of the Africa union starting from Holy Trinity Cathedral (The church is constructed in 1955 for the 25 years anniversary of Emperor Haileselassie and painted richly with remarkable biblical and other saint’s story), National museum (home of Lucy hominid skeleton dating back to 3.2 million years), afterwards continue to the campus of Addis Ababa University to the Ethnographical museum, with great displays of the many cultures of Ethiopia, housed in the former palace of Haile Selassie. In the afternoon proceed to Mountain Entoto, here you will visit the Entoto Mariyam church and Museum.
Accommodation
Settle into your premium city hotel, offering modern amenities and comfort in the heart of Ethiopia's bustling capital.
1 Night · Lunch & Dinner
Drive to the Rift Valley lake of Zway, for nice nature and many birds. Proceed then to Shashamanne, the city of the Rastafarians. Continue finally to the Awasa Rift Valley Lake. If time permits late afternoon add a boat excursion on Awasa Lake.
Accommodation
Enjoy a serene stay by the shimmering waters of Lake Awassa, surrounded by nature and exceptional lakeside hospitality.
1 Night · Full Board
Early morning around 6am go to visit the particular fish market of Awasa. After breakfast proceed then to the Bale Mountains National park. Visit on the way the Oromo people and their villages. Visit particular fauna and the afro-alpine vegetation. Dinner & ON hotel in Bale Goba.
Accommodation
Nestled in the dramatic landscapes of the Bale Mountains, this lodge offers a cozy retreat surrounded by pristine afro-alpine wilderness.
1 Night · Full Board
Drive to Senetti Plateau, the second highest altitude in Ethiopia and here you will see Ethiopian Wolf which is endemic to Ethiopia, make a trekking to Tulu Dimitu (Tullu Dimtu is the second highest mountain in Bale Ethiopia, rises to 4377m).
Accommodation
Return to the warmth of the lodge after an exhilarating day of high-altitude trekking and rare wildlife spotting.
1 Night · Full Board
Morning, drive to Sof Omar vast network limestone caverns, the largest in Africa lies at about 100km east of the Bale Mountains range at an elevation 1300m. It has been curved by the Web River, descending from the Bale Region Highlands to the flat arid plains then stretches to Somali Border. The underground chamber, watering by the Web River reaches 16km long, the limestone pillars that support the caverns are high up to 20m. The cavern is named after Sheikh Sof Omar, a 12th century Muslim Chief who used the area as a refuge, remaining an important pilgrimage site for Ethiopian Muslims. Sof Omar Cavern is also best site for birdwatchers to see salvadori’s Serin – with bold yellow throat (endemic), & good to see acacia-scrub bird species such as orange-bellied Parrot, Blue napped mouse bird, Somali Tit and more others. After visit drive back to hotel.
Accommodation
Relax in the highland tranquility of your lodge following a day exploring Africa's largest and most spectacular underground cave system.
1 Night · Full Board
Drive to Asela, cross the Awash River and then proceed to the Awash National park. Late afternoon have a game drive, visit the Awash falls, spot crocodiles and hippos in the Awash river, spot different kind of birds and enjoy the unique flora and fauna.
Accommodation
Situated near the hot springs in Awash National Park, Doho Lodge blends natural beauty with restorative comfort.
1 Night · Full Board
Early morning make a final game drive in the part and then drive to Harar. Afternoon tour of Harar: visit the Adere people houses, the mosques, the city walls, the basket production, the markets, French poet Rimbaud house, and more. Evening visit the hyena man: a man feeding wild hyenas.
Accommodation
Centrally located, Ras Hotel provides convenient access to explore the ancient walled city of Harar and its vibrant, colorful alleyways.
1 Night · Full Board
Early morning drive to the very colorful chad market of Awedae. Then proceed to Dire Dawa, for visit of the town, the famous Ethiopia-Djibouti rail way and the markets.
Accommodation
Continue your stay in practical comfort, perfectly positioned for exploring the bustling trade hubs and colonial railway history of Dire Dawa.
1 Night · Full Board
Morning after breakfast take flight back to Addis Ababa and visit Mercato, one of Africa’s largest outdoor markets and enjoy shopping in Addis. Evening we will have fare well dinner in one of the Ethiopian restaurant for cultural dances from the different ethnic groups. Then transfer to the airport fly back home.
Day Use & Meals
Enjoy a day room to freshen up before your onward journey.
Day use room until 18:00 hrs · Full Board
Suggested accommodation may be changed to similar depending on availability at the time of booking. This proposal cost is subject to change due to unforeseeable changes in fuel and other levies.
Strategically located in the heart of Addis Ababa, Best Western Plus offers a seamless blend of contemporary luxury and Ethiopian hospitality. It serves as an ideal base for your arrival and departure in the bustling capital. Guests can enjoy well-appointed rooms, modern fitness facilities, and exceptional dining experiences, ensuring a comfortable and refreshing stay before heading out to the historic and natural sites.
Set upon the picturesque shores of Lake Awassa, Haile Resort provides stunning panoramic views of the water and a tranquil environment away from the city bustle. Perfectly situated for exploring the lake's abundant birdlife and nature, the resort features modern rooms, waterfront dining, and beautiful gardens to relax in after a day of discovery.
Tucked into the dramatic and untouched landscapes of the Bale Mountains, Bale Mountain Lodge offers a warm and authentic highland retreat. It is the perfect jumping-off point for exploring the afro-alpine moorlands, tracking the rare Ethiopian Wolf on the Senetti Plateau, and delving deep into the spectacular Sof Omar Caves.
Located on the edge of Awash National Park, Doho Lodge is famous for its natural hot springs and stunning views over the Awash River valley. Enjoy a unique blend of wilderness immersion and restorative relaxation. The lodge provides easy access to game drives, bird watching, and the majestic Awash Falls, along with soothing geothermal pools.
An established and culturally connected accommodation in the eastern region, offering practical comfort and excellent proximity to the historical and bustling centers of Harar and Dire Dawa. Whether you are navigating the ancient walled alleyways of Harar or visiting the bustling markets of Dire Dawa, the hotel acts as a convenient and hospitable base for your urban exploration.
Ancient rock churches, castles and highland landscapes along Ethiopia's legendary northern trail
A cultural immersion into the tribal traditions of the remote Omo Valley
Ethiopian wolves, Afro-alpine moorlands and the walled city of Harar
Tribal encounters paired with the birthplace of Arabica coffee
The complete Ethiopia experience — ancient history meets living culture
