Maze National Park

Maze National Park is a small savannah national park in southern Ethiopia, located 460 km southwest of Addis Ababa and 248 km from Hawassa, covering approximately 210 km² within the Gamo-Gofa Zone of the South Ethiopia Regional State. The park is best known as one of only three sites worldwide where a healthy population of the critically endangered Swayne’s Hartebeest still survives, with an estimated 300 to 1,000 individuals recorded. Managed by the Ethiopian Wildlife Conservation Authority (EWCA) since its founding in 2005, Maze is also home to 39 larger mammal species, 196 bird species, lions, leopards, buffaloes, and a series of geological and cultural attractions including the Bilbo Hot Springs and the Wonja Stone Caves.

Maze National Park Location and Park Facts

Maze National Park sits in the South Ethiopia Regional State, 460 km southwest of Addis Ababa and 248 km from Hawassa, covering approximately 210 km². The park was founded in 2005 and is managed by the Ethiopian Wildlife Conservation Authority. The park takes its name from the Maze River, which traverses through its full length. Elevations within the park range between 1,000 and 1,200 m above sea level. Mount Gughe, which rises to 4,200 m above sea level, is found on the boundary of the park, providing a dramatic backdrop to the low-lying savannah. The park possesses a number of rivers and streams that ultimately drain into the Omo River. Before the park was gazetted, Maze served as a hunting area for Swayne’s Hartebeest and Buffalo.

Swayne’s Hartebeest in Maze National Park

Maze National Park is home to 37 species of mammals and 196 species of birds. The park is noted for its population of the endangered Swayne’s Hartebeest (Alcelaphus buselaphus swaynei), said to be second only to Senkelle Swayne’s Hartebeest Sanctuary in importance for that subspecies, with about 300 to 1,000 individuals in the park. Maze is one of only three sites in the world where a good population of the endemic Swayne’s Hartebeest still survives. Over 800 of these antelopes can be observed on a safari drive through the park’s grasslands, making it the single most reliable place in Ethiopia to see this species. The hartebeest are grazers that move across the open savannah in loose groups and are most visible during the dry season when the grass is shorter. Any game drive through the park’s central plains will almost certainly produce sightings.

Other Wildlife in Maze National Park

The high grass and limited network of roads makes viewing smaller animals a little more challenging, but greater kudu, waterbuck, oribi, warthog, and troops of olive baboon are all commonly seen. The park also supports one of the higher densities of lion found in Ethiopia, and although not common, they are occasionally observed patrolling or resting along the main road through the park. Cheetah, leopard, and African golden wolves are also present but rarely seen. Orbi, Bohor reedbuck, buffalo, warthog, bushbuck, waterbuck, greater kudu, lesser kudu, bush pig, Anubis baboon, vervet monkey, lion, leopard, wild cats, and serval cat are among other species recorded in the park. Reptiles such as Nile crocodiles and monitor lizards thrive in the park’s wetlands and river systems.

Birdwatching at Maze National Park

With 196 recorded bird species, Maze is a rewarding destination for birding in southern Ethiopia. Highlights include typical open grassland species such as lilac-breasted and Abyssinian rollers, black-bellied bustard, and four-banded sandgrouse. Birdlife is abundant, with African fish eagles, Abyssinian ground hornbills, and various kingfishers adding to the park’s avian diversity. The Ethiopian oriole, an endemic species, thrives in the park’s woodlands, feeding on fruits, nectar, and insects. The best time to visit Maze National Park for birdwatching is during the rainy season or immediately after, when you have the best chance of seeing endemic species and migratory birds that fly into the country. Birdwatching is particularly rewarding near the riverbanks, where many species congregate.

Bilbo Hot Springs

The Bilbo Hot Springs are situated at the upper parts of the Maze River in the southern section of the park. They form a type of geyser, shooting hot water from deep inside the ground, and the smoke released covers a wide area and can be seen from a distance. Many locals believe the water from the springs has healing powers, and local people can be seen collecting the water for medicinal purposes. The water from the hot springs shoots up from the ground with considerable force, creating a dramatic visual for visitors who trek to the site. The walk to the hot springs from the park’s main road takes roughly two to three hours on foot and requires a guide. The steam and geological activity make this one of the more unusual natural features in any Ethiopian park and worth the effort, particularly for visitors who want to combine wildlife viewing with a short trek.

Wonja Stone Caves

The Wonja Stone Caves are located in the northern part of Maze National Park. The caves have a rich local history: according to tradition, they were used as an imprisonment place for criminals in the community where punishments were administered. The caves are large enough to hold a population of about 300 people at the same time. You will need a guide who will take you through the caving excursion and explain the requirements for exploring the cave safely. The caves are accessible by vehicle to a trailhead, after which a short walk brings you to the entrance. The sandstone formations inside are well worth the detour, and the local guides provide context on the cultural significance of the site that you would not get from visiting independently.

Chosho Market Religious Site

There are two ancient large trees at Chosho Market that are considered a religious and judicial site by local residents. These trees are believed to serve a justice-giving function for any disagreements that arise among community members, and the site is locally called “Kaouwo Welloa,” meaning the king’s tree. Around Maze National Park, there are four major ethnic groups: the Gamo, the Qucha, the Gofa, and the Omotic tribe. These groups live around the park and each has unique cultural practices. Visitors can meet locals, purchase handmade souvenirs, taste local food, and learn about the historical legends surrounding the park. When visiting local villages, it is important to first obtain permission from the elders as a sign of respect before interacting with the wider community.

Guided Game Drives in Maze National Park

Safaris are typically scheduled during the early morning or late afternoon to coincide with peak wildlife activity. Guides provide valuable insights into the park’s ecosystems, animal behaviors, and ongoing conservation efforts. The park’s road network is limited, so most game drives cover the central grassland corridor where Swayne’s Hartebeest concentrations are highest. Visitors may also spot predators such as leopards and spotted hyenas moving through the woodlands during these drives, which are optimally timed for the cooler hours of the day. A full-day drive allows coverage of the riverine zones near the Maze River as well as the open grasslands, giving the best combination of hartebeest, kudu, and bird sightings. A 4×4 vehicle is required year-round, particularly during and after the rainy season when tracks become muddy.

Trekking and Walking Safaris

There are established trek routes through the park demarcated for visitors who prefer walking. These routes take you across different sections of the park and allow you to see the Bilbo Springs in the southern part, observe wildlife, and spot bird species. During a trek, an experienced guide explains the flora, fauna, and geology of the park. Walking safaris offer a slower, quieter approach than a vehicle game drive, and this often results in better bird sightings and closer approaches to smaller mammals. The terrain is relatively flat between 1,000 and 1,200 m, so fitness requirements are modest. Wear closed shoes, carry at least two liters of water per person, and schedule morning starts to avoid the midday heat.

Best Time to Visit Maze National Park in 2026

The best time to visit the park for animal viewing is during the dry season, when many animals move around the park in search of food and water, making them easier to locate. June to October is also a good time to visit Maze National Park for wildlife viewing, as the park generally receives less rainfall during this period. The rainy season extends from March to September, with annual rainfall estimated between 800 and 1,600 mm. During peak rains in April and May, the gravel tracks inside the park can become impassable without a capable 4×4. Post-rain periods in late May and October often produce good birding as migratory species arrive.

How to Get to Maze National Park

The road from Sodo to the park is an all-weather gravel road covering a distance of 83 km. It is also possible to access the park from the road between Jinka and Betomela from the other side of the park. By air, visitors can fly into Addis Ababa Bole International Airport and then arrange a domestic flight to Arba Minch Airport, which is approximately 95 km from the park. The drive from Addis Ababa to Sodo takes approximately seven to eight hours on the main paved road via Shashemene. From Sodo, the 83 km gravel road to the park headquarters takes an additional two to three hours depending on conditions. A private 4×4 hire from Addis Ababa or Hawassa is the most practical arrangement for independent travelers, as there is no public transport that reaches the park gate directly.

Where to Stay Near Maze National Park

There are currently no permanent lodges operating inside the park, and formal accommodation within the park boundaries remains limited. Travelers can stay at hotels in Wolaita Sodo, which is the closest town with reliable accommodation, with options including Abebe Zeleke Hotel, Nega International Hotel, and Lewi Resort. Wolaita Sodo is roughly 83 km from the park gate and serves as the standard base for visits. From Sodo, an early morning departure allows full-day access to the park before returning to town for the night. Arba Minch, approximately 95 km away, is another base option and has a slightly wider choice of mid-range hotels. Plans to develop eco-tourism infrastructure inside the park are underway to generate revenue and improve visitor facilities, but as of 2026 these are not yet operational