Bale & Rift Valley

Your adventure begins with an early morning flight to Goba, followed by a scenic drive to the headquarters of Bale Mountains National Park in Dinsho. After a quick lunch, you will embark on a gentle 2-hour hike through lush, juniper-filled woodlands, offering a superb introduction to the park’s rich biodiversity. This is your first opportunity to spot magnificent endemic wildlife such as the stately Mountain Nyala and the Menelik’s Bushbuck. As the day ends, you will settle into the serene Dinsho Campsite, where the crisp mountain air and sounds of nature provide a perfect backdrop for your first night under the stars.

After a hearty breakfast, you will commence an 18km trek that leads you deeper into the heart of the Bale Mountains. The trail treats you to the spectacular sight of Finch Habra Waterfall, a beautiful cascade set amidst lush greenery, before continuing to the picturesque confluence of the Web and Wolla Rivers. This area is a haven for birdwatchers and offers a chance to glimpse the rare and endangered Ethiopian Wolf. Your day of trekking concludes at the remote and beautiful Sodota Campsite, where you will spend the night immersed in the tranquility of the highlands.

Today’s trek takes you through the breathtaking Meraro Valley, a landscape of rolling hills and unique afro-alpine vegetation. Over the course of 5-6 hours of hiking, you will ascend to the dramatic Wasama Valley, a campsite nestled at the base of the imposing Wassema Mountain. Here, you are rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys, creating a truly majestic setting to relax and reflect on your journey so far before spending the night at this high-altitude haven.

Prepare for a day of epic landscapes as you trek across the high-altitude Saneti Plateau. The journey includes a stop at the dramatic Archa’a Viewpoint, which offers sweeping, uninterrupted views of the valleys below. The terrain unfolds into vast afro-alpine meadows, dotted with the surreal forms of giant lobelia plants and constantly scanned for wildlife. After 6-7 hours of immersive hiking through this unique ecosystem, you will arrive at your campsite on the Saneti Plateau, a truly remote and unforgettable location.

Your day begins with an early ascent to the summit of Tulu Dimtu, which at 4,377 meters is the second-highest peak in Ethiopia. The climb is a rewarding challenge, culminating in breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of the entire Saneti Plateau and the vast Harenna Forest below—a truly unforgettable highlight of the trek. After descending and celebrating your achievement with a well-earned picnic lunch, you will meet your vehicle and drive to Goba, where you will check into a comfortable hotel. This is a welcome opportunity to enjoy a hot shower and a comfortable bed, allowing you to fully rest and recharge after your incredible days of trekking.

Today’s journey takes you on a scenic drive to the tranquil town of Yirga Alem, renowned for its lush coffee plantations. En route, you will make a fascinating stop in Shashemene, a town with a unique cultural history. Upon arrival, you will check into the beautiful Aregash Lodge, where a leisurely walk may reveal colorful native birds. The day culminates in an authentic Ethiopian coffee ceremony, a cultural cornerstone where you can witness the traditional roasting, grinding, and brewing of coffee, all while enjoying the peaceful surroundings.

After breakfast, you will drive to Arba Minch, “the City of Forty Springs.” The scenic route takes you through fertile, fruit-growing regions before ascending into the Chencha Mountains to visit the Dorze people. You will be warmly welcomed into their community, learning about their famous woven cottons and their remarkable beehive-shaped houses. Following this enriching cultural encounter, you will descend to Arba Minch and check into the Haile Resort, where you can relax on the terrace overlooking the twin lakes of Abaya and Chamo.

This morning, a thrilling boat trip on Lake Chamo awaits, where you will come face-to-face with some of Africa’s most formidable wildlife, including vast pods of hippos and massive Nile crocodiles basking on the shores. In the afternoon, you will shift gears for a guided forest walk in Nechsar National Park, exploring its diverse flora and fauna on foot. You will return to the comfort of the Haile Resort for a final evening in the south, reflecting on the day’s incredible wildlife sightings.

On your final day, a short morning flight returns you to the capital, Addis Ababa. Here, you will visit the New Palace Museum, which offers fascinating insights into Ethiopia’s modern history and royal heritage. Your journey concludes with a memorable farewell dinner at a traditional restaurant, where you will savor delicious local dishes while being entertained by live cultural music and dance performances. Afterwards, you will be transferred to the airport for your departure flight, filled with unforgettable memories of Ethiopia’s wonders.