6 Days Bale Mountains Trekking

Day 1: Arrival in Addis Ababa & City Tour

Upon arrival in Addis Ababa, a representative from Zagwe Ethiopia Tours will welcome you and transfer you to your hotel. The name “Addis Ababa” translates to “New Flower” in Amharic, a language you will hear sung through the lively streets of this bustling city. Originally chosen for its lush greenery and temperate climate, Addis Ababa became Ethiopia’s capital at the behest of Empress Taytu, the wife of Emperor Menelik II, who preferred it over the former capital, Entoto.

As soon as you step out of the airport, you will find yourself immersed in a world that blends ancient traditions with modern aspirations. Addis Ababa is a city of striking contrasts, where historical landmarks stand alongside contemporary developments. Before venturing into Ethiopia’s rural beauty, you will explore this vibrant metropolis with your knowledgeable local guide. Highlights of the city tour include:

• The former palace of Emperor Haile Selassie, now home to the fascinating Ethnological Museum.
• St. George’s Cathedral, an important religious site with stunning architecture.
• A breathtaking panoramic view of the capital from the heights of Entoto Mountain.

Day 2: Drive to Lake Langano (220 km)

After breakfast, we will depart early from Addis Ababa, heading southeast towards the Bale Mountains. Our first stop will be at the Debre Zeit crater lakes, located 48 km from the capital. This cluster of seven small, alkaline lakes is fed by rainfall and underground springs, creating a picturesque natural setting.

Continuing through the Great Rift Valley, we will arrive at Lake Langano, where we will stay at a beautifully appointed lodge with stunning views of the 4,000-meter-high Arsi Mountains. The lodge is a secluded retreat featuring diverse ecological zones and a rich array of wildlife, including over 400 bird species. The lakeshore, dotted with acacia trees, provides a perfect backdrop for photography, particularly at sunset when the sky transforms into a canvas of warm hues.

Day 3: Drive to Dinsho via Goba (Bale Mountains, 200 km)

After a morning exploration of our lodge surroundings and breakfast, we will depart for Goba, the gateway to Bale Mountains National Park. The journey ascends through highland landscapes, passing traditional homesteads and fields of teff and barley before reaching the park’s breathtaking mountain scenery.

If time allows, we will visit the Gaysay Valley, home to the rare Mountain Nyala, an antelope species endemic to Ethiopia. With only a few thousand remaining, this majestic animal is one of the highlights of the park’s wildlife.

The best time to visit the Bale Mountains is during the dry season (November to February), when temperatures during the day can reach 25°C, while nighttime temperatures can drop as low as -15°C on the high-lying Sanetti Plateau.

Day 4: Sanetti Plateau & Harenna Forest

Early in the morning, we will ascend the Bale Massif onto the Sanetti Plateau, situated at elevations between 3,800m and 4,377m. Here, we will drive along Africa’s highest road, passing near the summit of Ethiopia’s second-highest peak, Mount Tullu Demtu (4,330m). The plateau’s breathtaking landscape consists of volcanic peaks, alpine lakes, and rushing streams carving through deep gorges.

Our main focus will be spotting the Ethiopian Wolf, the world’s rarest canid, as it hunts its primary prey—the Giant Mole Rat. The plateau is also home to a diverse range of endemic bird species, including Rouget’s Rail, Chestnut-naped Francolin, and Spot-breasted Lapwing.

Descending into the Harenna Forest, we enter a completely different ecosystem teeming with wildlife. Here, we may encounter the Giant Forest Hog, Menelik’s Bushbuck, the elusive Bale Monkey, and the striking Guereza Colobus. While sightings of African Wild Dogs, Leopards, and even the rumored Black Leopard are rare, the presence of Spotted Hyenas and roaring lions adds to the forest’s mystique.

Day 5: Further Exploration of Sanetti Plateau & Harenna Forest

Today, we have another opportunity to explore the plateau and Harenna Forest in search of its remarkable wildlife. Whether capturing stunning photographs or simply soaking in the beauty of Ethiopia’s diverse landscapes, this day will offer an unforgettable experience.

Day 6: Return to Addis Ababa

We will begin our journey back to Addis Ababa early in the morning, crossing the Sanetti Plateau once more. If time permits, we may visit the Abijatta-Shalla National Park along the way. The twin lakes, Abijatta and Shalla, are significant feeding grounds for thousands of migratory birds, including flamingos and pelicans.

Upon arrival in Addis Ababa, we will check into our hotel for a brief rest before gathering for a farewell dinner at one of the city’s top traditional restaurants. Here, you will savor a variety of Ethiopian delicacies while enjoying a vibrant cultural dance performance that showcases Ethiopia’s rich heritage.

After dinner, we will transfer you to the airport for your departure, marking the end of this incredible Ethiopian adventure.