Wildlife safari and wilderness in the heart of Ethiopia
In summary
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Sports
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Duration12 days
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LevelAll levels
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DestinationAfrica / Ethiopia
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AgeFrom 16 - 90 years
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CO₂-Emissions319.61 kg CO2
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Type of stayIn a group
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Languages
French
English
In a few words
Explore a wild and secluded Ethiopia on an exclusive tour designed for lovers of wide-open spaces. This accessible hiking trip takes you from the contrasting peaks of the Bale Mountains to the impressive caves of Sof Omar , passing through the highlands and lakes of the Rift Valley . In the heart of these pristine sanctuaries, experience a rare immersion in the unique biodiversity that shelters more than 140 endemic species. You'll encounter exceptional iconic wildlife , from the mythical Ethiopian wolf to the great gelada monkeys, not forgetting the mountain nyalas and abundant birdlife on the shores of Lakes Ziway and Langano. Designed to adapt to everyone's pace, this off-the-beaten-path itinerary prioritizes authentic encounters with local communities. A memorable adventure combining raw nature, wildlife observation, and cultural exchange.
The highlights
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Observation of endemic fauna: Ethiopian wolf, gelada, nyala
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Exploration of Lakes Ziway, Langano and Chamo
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Spectacular discovery of the Sof Omar caves
Photos
Sport
Level
Hiking / Trekking
The expert's opinion
This wildlife safari is accessible to anyone in good general physical condition , with no prior hiking or nature travel experience required. Activities mainly consist of walks, easy hikes, and observations on non-technical terrain.
The pace of the trip is gradual and adaptable , with regular rest periods and days balanced between travel, visits, and exploration. Hikes are short and at a leisurely pace , allowing everyone to fully appreciate the scenery and wildlife.
The route crosses mid-altitude regions without any major difficulties. The support of an experienced local team allows the program to be adjusted as needed, depending on the group's fitness level or local conditions.
This trip is suitable for both less athletic but curious travelers and more active participants wishing to experience an authentic safari focused on observation, nature and encounters.
In figures
Hiking
- Average duration/day: 1h30
Management
French
English
Yared has been sharing his passion for Ethiopia with travelers from all over the world for almost twenty years. In 2006, he started with a single off-road vehicle and a strong conviction: to reveal an authentic Ethiopia, far from the standardized routes.
Over the years, he has designed tours throughout the country, developed a vast network of local partners, and built a team of experienced professionals. Today, his expertise is recognized by travelers from over 40 countries, with an approach based on quality, safety, and human connection.
Deeply committed to responsible tourism and local communities, Yared has designed this trip to help you discover the landscapes, cultures and traditions that make up the exceptional richness of Ethiopia.
His commitment: to provide you with an authentic, immersive and perfectly organized experience.
The trip is led by an experienced local team , specializing in nature and wildlife tours in Ethiopia.
A professional French-speaking guide accompanies the group throughout the trip and provides cultural and naturalist explanations and organizes the days.
Travel is carried out in a private vehicle with a professional driver , who is perfectly familiar with the route and local conditions.
Depending on the sites visited (natural parks, observation areas, caves), specialized local guides intervene occasionally to enrich the observations and provide their expertise on the fauna, flora and natural sites.
Program
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Addis Ababa, first discoveries
- Accommodation 4-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Arrival at Bole International Airport and transfer to the hotel. Addis Ababa, perched at an altitude of over 2,300 meters, offers a first glimpse into the history and identity of the country. The morning is dedicated to visiting the National Museum , home to the famous Lucy fossil, followed by a visit to the Holy Trinity Cathedral .
A first contact with Ethiopian culture, between heritage, history and urban atmosphere.
A gradual introduction to begin the journey smoothly.
Day 1 -
On the southern route: Tiya stelae and Lake Ziway
- Transportation Minibus - 05h - 220km
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Departure south through the landscapes of the highlands. Stop at the archaeological site of Tiya , a UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its mysterious funerary stelae. Continue to the monolithic church of Adadi Mariam , carved into the rock.
At the end of the day, arrival at Lake Ziway , first contact with the ornithology of the Rift Valley.
Birdwatching by the lake at sunset.
Day 2 -
Yergalem, land of coffee and Sidamo culture
- Transportation Minibus - 04h - 180km
- Activity Hiking
- Accommodation Lodge
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Drive to the verdant region of Yergalem , renowned for its coffee plantations. Stroll through a Sidamo village to discover local traditions, dwellings, and the stages of Arabica coffee preparation.
Interactions with the locals provide a better understanding of the rural way of life and the skills passed down from generation to generation.
A day dedicated to encounters and authenticity.
Day 3 -
High plateaus and arrival at Arba Minch
- Transportation Minibus - 06h - 275km
- Accommodation 4-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
The journey continues south through agricultural landscapes and traditional villages, particularly around Alaba Kulito . The scenery gradually changes as you approach the Great Lakes region.
Arrival at Arba Minch , located between Lakes Abaya and Chamo, in a remarkable natural environment.
A day of transition, marked by the diversity of the landscapes crossed.
Day 4 -
Lake Chamo and the Dorze people
- Accommodation 4-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
In the morning, a boat trip on Lake Chamo , in the heart of spectacular landscapes dominated by Nech Sar National Park .
Observing Nile crocodiles , hippos and numerous birds offers a highlight of the stay.
In the afternoon, we met with the Dorze people, who live in the highlands of Arba Minch. We discovered their bamboo houses, their textile crafts, and their traditional way of life centered around the ensete.
A balanced day, combining wildlife and cultural immersion.
Day 5 -
Senkele Sanctuary and road to Awassa
- Transportation Minibus - 06h - 290km
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Departure for the Senkele Sanctuary , the last refuge of the rare Swayne's gazelle , an endangered endemic species. Observation walk in this discreet and preserved reserve.
Continue to Awassa , a pleasant town in the Rift Valley, located on the edge of its lake.
A step focused on protecting wildlife and the open landscapes of southern Ethiopia.
Day 6 -
Awassa, market and nature of the Rift
- Activity Hiking
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
The morning is marked by a visit to the Awassa fish market , a lively and emblematic place in the city, animated by fishermen, locals and birds.
Walk along the lake and boat trip in the surrounding gardens to observe the colobus monkeys .
A relaxing day to discover local life and nature around the lake.
Day 7 -
Towards the Bale Mountains
- Transportation Minibus - 05h - 200km
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
The road leaves the Rift Valley and gradually reaches the Bale Mountains . The landscapes gain altitude and coolness.
Discover the Dinsho forest , habitat of the mountain nyala and other endemic species.
A first immersion in one of Ethiopia's richest natural parks.
Day 8 -
Sanetti plateau and Harenna forest
- Transportation Minibus - 03h - 90km
- Activity Hiking
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
A day dedicated to exploring the Sanetti plateau , at an altitude of over 4,000 m. The open, volcanic landscapes offer ideal conditions for trying to spot the Ethiopian wolf .
Descent towards the Harenna forest , a dense and contrasting ecosystem, very different from the high plateaus.
An iconic stage of the journey, between altitude and biodiversity.
Day 9 -
Sof Omar Caves
- Transportation Minibus - 03h - 100km
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 5h
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Route to the impressive Sof Omar caves , one of the largest underground networks in Africa.
The galleries carved by the Weyib River offer a striking natural spectacle.
The visit takes place on foot, in an atmosphere that is both geological and spiritual.
A different kind of day, focused on discovering a unique natural heritage.
Day 10 -
Abijatta‑Shalla and Langano Lake Parks
- Transportation Minibus - 05h - 240km
- Accommodation Lodge
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Departure for Abijatta-Shalla National Park , known for its volcanic lakes and large colonies of pink flamingos .
End of the day at Lake Langano , whose shores offer a setting conducive to relaxation.
A beautiful, natural conclusion to the wildlife safari.
Day 11 -
Return to Addis Ababa and departure
- Transportation Minibus - 04h - 200km
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Return to Addis Ababa through the landscapes of the Rift Valley. Free time, depending on the schedule, for last-minute souvenir or coffee shopping.
Transfer to Bole International Airport for the return flight.
End of a trip rich in nature, wildlife and encounters.
Day 12
Note
The order of activities may be slightly adjusted by the supervising team depending on the weather, altitude or local constraints , always with the aim of offering the best possible experience in optimal conditions of practice and safety.
Since the animals roam freely in their natural habitat, their observation depends on the conditions and cannot be guaranteed .
Accommodation
The hotel category indicated (4*) corresponds to local Ethiopian standards, which may differ from European standards.
The selected 4* accommodations offer a good level of comfort throughout the tour.
The hotel mentioned may be replaced by an establishment of a similar or equivalent category , depending on availability at the time of booking.
The hotel category indicated (3*) corresponds to local Ethiopian standards, which may differ from European standards.
Accommodation in this category offers simple and functional comfort , well suited to a nature and safari tour.
The hotel mentioned may be replaced by an establishment of a similar or equivalent category , depending on availability at the time of booking.
Nights spent in the lodge take place in charming accommodation , integrated into its natural environment.
These accommodations prioritize a peaceful and immersive atmosphere , promoting contact with nature and local culture, while offering a level of comfort adapted to the tour.
The hotel category indicated (4*) corresponds to local Ethiopian standards, which may differ from European standards.
The selected 4* accommodations offer a good level of comfort throughout the tour.
The hotel mentioned may be replaced by an establishment of a similar or equivalent category , depending on availability at the time of booking.
The hotel category indicated (3*) corresponds to local Ethiopian standards, which may differ from European standards.
Accommodation in this category offers simple and functional comfort .
The hotel mentioned may be replaced by an establishment of a similar or equivalent category , depending on availability at the time of booking.
The hotel category indicated (3*) corresponds to local Ethiopian standards, which may differ from European standards.
Accommodation in this category offers simple and functional comfort .
The hotel mentioned may be replaced by an establishment of a similar or equivalent category , depending on availability at the time of booking.
Nights spent in the lodge take place in charming accommodation , integrated into its natural environment.
These accommodations prioritize a peaceful and immersive atmosphere, promoting contact with nature and local culture , while offering a level of comfort adapted to the tour.
Access
The precise information regarding the meeting point upon your arrival will be communicated to you after your booking, as your departure date approaches .
Go to the starting point
Book your international flight arriving at Bole International Airport (Addis Ababa) . Several airlines serve Ethiopia, including Ethiopian Airlines, Turkish Airlines, Lufthansa, and other international carriers.
We recommend Ethiopian Airlines , the national carrier, which offers direct overnight flights from Paris CDG, arriving in Addis Ababa the following morning. This option ensures a comfortable journey and an ideal arrival to begin the program in optimal conditions.
If you choose a different airline, your flight may arrive the day before your trip begins. In this case, we can offer you an optional extra night in a hotel near the airport (transfers included).
Please note: return flights from Addis Ababa often depart late at night or around midnight. Therefore, it is important to pay close attention to booking dates: for a return flight on Saturday, you will generally need to book a flight during the night from Saturday to Sunday, i.e., Sunday morning after midnight.
Price details
The price includes
- Accommodation in the hotels mentioned (shared double or twin room)
- Meals according to the chosen package
- All activities and entry fees mentioned in the program
- The services of a professional French- or English-speaking guide
- Private transportation with driver according to the planned itinerary
- All taxes (VAT 15%) and service charges
The price does not include
- International flights
- Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages
- Travel insurance (repatriation, cancellation, assistance)
- Tips and gratuities
- Personal expenses
- Visa fees
- The single room supplement (if applicable)
- An extra night in Addis Ababa is available for early arrivals before the start of the trip. Participants can contact us in advance to arrange this extra night.
Options
- Single room : CHF228.70 / person
- Arrival the day before (Hotel + transfer) : On request
- Flex fare and insurance
Practical information
Specific formalities
Specifics
Before your departure, check with the embassy or consulate regarding the entry and stay requirements for your destination country. You can also find this information on the France Diplomatie website ( https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fr/dossiers-pays/ ).
In the case of flights with stopovers operated by different airlines, also check the entry requirements of the countries you are transiting through.
It is your responsibility to ensure you are in compliance, particularly regarding the validity of your identity documents (for example, some countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after your return) , visa requirements, necessary vaccinations, and health recommendations. And don't forget to consider any customs restrictions and other potential requirements of your destination or transit country.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS – ETHIOPIA (VISA)
For Ethiopia, a visa is mandatory. Travelers must apply before departure through the official e-Visa procedure, available online. The passport must be valid for at least six months after the date of entry. The e-Visa received by email must be printed and presented at boarding and upon arrival. Visas on arrival are not recommended due to the uncertainty of obtaining one. No visa is required for transit without leaving the international transit area.
ℹ️ Information may change up to the departure date, remember to regularly check official websites.
Equipment
Equipment to bring
Sports Equipment & Accessories
- Backpack: A 15-20L bag for your daily outings (water, jacket, snacks).
- Hydration: A hydration pack or water bottles (minimum 2L capacity). Water purification tablets (such as Micropur) may be useful.
- Sun protection: Category 3 or 4 sunglasses, high protection sunscreen, lip balm and a cap or headband.
- Walking poles: Optional, but recommended if your stay involves a lot of elevation gain.
Hygiene and Pharmacy
- First aid kit: Blister plasters (Compeed type), disinfectant, painkillers, and anti-diarrheal medication.
- Hygiene: Biodegradable soap, refreshing wipes and hand sanitizer.
- Towel: A quick-drying microfiber towel.
- Mosquito/malaria protection: Skin repellent (DEET or icaridin), clothing spray/treatment, long clothing in the evening + (if needed) mosquito net. Depending on the itinerary (some areas < 2,000 m), medical advice is recommended to assess the need for preventive antimalarial treatment.
Electronics & Miscellaneous
- External battery (Powerbank): To recharge your devices when access to electricity is limited.
- Headlamp: Essential for early morning departures or basic accommodations.
- Plug adapter: Type C or L (generally compatible with French plugs).
- Waterproof bag: To protect your papers and electronics from dust or rain.
Clothing to bring
Technical Clothing (Layer System)
- Breathable tops: 4 to 5 technical t-shirts (wicking away sweat).
- Thermal layer: A light fleece or long-sleeved top for cool mornings and evenings at altitude.
- Protective jacket: A waterproof windbreaker (Gore-Tex type) for sudden downpours or wind on the plateaus.
- Bottoms: 2 sports shorts, 1 running/running tights (useful for staying cool or protecting yourself from vegetation) and 1 pair of lightweight hiking pants.
- Underwear: Opt for synthetic materials or merino wool to avoid irritation.
Shoes
- Trail running shoes: Essential for good grip on rocky and dusty trails.
- Recovery footwear: A pair of sandals or light sneakers for the evening.
- Socks: 5 pairs of technical socks reinforced in areas of friction.
The Jean-Adrien team
In 2006, after several years of experience, Yared chose to create his agency based on a modern vision of tourism: discovering others while respecting their cultures and nature. Our local expert rejects voyeurism, favoring genuine encounters, exchanges, and emotional experiences. He offers total immersion thanks to expert guides and drivers. Through his travels, he cultivates a deep understanding of Ethiopia and its people.
