Bale Trekking

6 Days

Escape the ordinary and step into a landscape that feels otherworldly. Visit Bale National Park and discover the Bale Mountains, a high-altitude paradise, a haven for endemic wildlife and some of the most dramatic scenery in all of Africa. Your adventure here will see you traversing the vast expanse of the Sanetti Plateau, the largest Afro-alpine plateau on Earth. As you journey by 4×4 or on foot across this remarkable landscape, often soaring above 4,000 meters, you will be in the best place on the planet. Visit Bale National Park to witness the majestic and endangered Ethiopian Wolf in its natural habitat. From these open moorlands, you can descend into the mysterious, cloud-veiled Harenna Forest, a magical montane realm. Explore the dense canopy in search of the Bale Monkey, colobus monkeys, and a dazzling array of birdlife. For the ultimate panoramic view, a climb towards the peak of Tulu Dimtu, Ethiopia’s second-highest point, rewards you with breathtaking vistas. These vistas stretch across the entire park, inviting all to have a visit to Bale National Park for this experience. This is a truly unique and pristine environment, offering an unparalleled experience of high-altitude trekking, wildlife viewing, and photography. Enjoy the chance to see not only the Ethiopian Wolf but also the magnificent Mountain Nyala. So, make plans to visit Bale National Park and immerse yourself in its natural wonders.

Overview

This six-day journey takes you from the bustling capital of Addis Ababa into the heart of one of Ethiopia's most stunning and remote wilderness areas. You'll traverse volcanic plateaus, gaze over dramatic valleys, spot unique wildlife, and summit the second-highest peak in the country.

Highlights

  • Encounter Rare Wildlife: Keep your eyes peeled for the elegant and endangered Ethiopian Wolf, alongside a haven of unique birdlife.
  • Trek the Saneti Plateau: Experience the otherworldly landscape of the high-altitude plateau, dotted with giant lobelia plants and vast afro-alpine meadows.
  • Witness Spectacular Waterfalls & Valleys: Be captivated by the beautiful Finch Habra Waterfall and the dramatic, panoramic vistas of the Wasama and Meraro Valleys.
  • Authentic Camping Immersion: Spend nights at remote and beautiful campsites like Sodota, fully immersed in the tranquility of the Ethiopian highlands.
  • What accommodation is included?

Itinerary

  • Day
    01

    Day 1: Addis Ababa to Dinsho

    Gateway to the Bale Mountains Your adventure begins with a scenic, full-day drive from Addis Ababa, traveling via Asela to the town of Dinsho, nestled on the edge of the national park. This seven-hour journey is more than just a transfer; it's a captivating introduction to the Ethiopian highlands, offering lively views of small cities and towns, bustling local markets, and the rhythmic activity of farm fields that paint a vivid picture of rural life.

    Dinner + Lunch
    Camping/Tent
  • Day
    02

    Trek to Sodota Campsite – Waterfalls & Wolves

    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.

    Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner
    Camping/Tent
  • Day
    03

    Through the Meraro Valley to Wasama Valley

    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.

    Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner
    Camping/Tent
  • Day
    04

    The Saneti Plateau & Archa’a Viewpoint

    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.

    Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner
    Camping/Tent
  • Day
    05

    Summit Tulu Dimtu & Drive to Goba

    Your day begins before dawn 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.

    Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner
    Hotel/Resort/Lodge
  • Day
    06

    Goba - Addis

    Following breakfast, you will transfer to the local airport for your flight back to Addis Ababa, carrying with you the memories of an incredible alpine adventure.

    Lunch + Breakfast

Cost Includes

  • One Domestic Flight from Bale Robe for the last day
  • All ground transportation
  • Meal as mentioned on the program
  • Bottled Water for the trekking
  • All logistics in in the park (tent, mattress, horses, cook, cooking materials, assistant cook, etc)
  • One night hotel at Goba or Robe
  • Guide and Local Guides

Cost Excludes

  • International Flights
  • Any service in Addis
  • Tips and personal gratitude for teams on ground or hotels
  • Any alcoholic Drinks