10-Day Ethiopia Wildlife Photographer Tour
- Overview
- Tour Details
Embark on an unforgettable 10-day photography journey through Ethiopia’s most breathtaking wildlife habitats. This tour takes you through the country’s iconic landscapes, including the dramatic cliffs of Simien Mountains National Park, the expansive Afro-alpine moorlands of Bale Mountains National Park, and the savannah plains of Awash National Park. It is designed for wildlife enthusiasts eager to capture rare and endemic species.
During the trip, you’ll have the opportunity to photograph the charismatic Gelada baboons, the endangered Ethiopian wolf, the majestic Walia ibex, and Grevy’s zebra, as well as an impressive variety of highland and lowland birdlife. This immersive experience combines high-altitude ecosystems, forest habitats, and arid landscapes, offering unmatched photographic diversity within a carefully curated itinerary.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Arrival in Addis Ababa and City Tour
You will arrive at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport and meet your representative from Armaye Ethiopia Tours. Begin your city tour with visits to Mount Entoto, the National Museum of Ethiopia, Merkato, and the Holy Trinity Cathedral. Overnight stay: Check-inn hotel
Fly to Gondar and Visit the Simien Mountains
Take a morning flight from Addis Ababa to Gondar. Upon arrival, our drivers will greet you, and you will continue the journey to Debark, located about 100 km from Gondar, where the park headquarters are situated. After completing the entrance formalities, head into the Simien Mountains. Enjoy a short hike around the lodge to spot and photograph the Gelada baboons, also known as the "bleeding-heart baboons. Simien Lodge
Explore Simien Mountains
Experience a full day of driving and hiking within the park. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Simien landscape and endless mountain ridges. You will have the chance to observe and photograph endemic wildlife such as Gelada baboons, Walia Ibex, Bush Buck, and Cliff's Springer, as well as various bird species including Lammergeier, Francolins, and Ankober Serin.
Overnight stay: Simein Lodge
Return to Gondar and Fly to Addis Ababa
In the early morning, enjoy the landscape of Simein mountain and have your breakfast at your lodge. Later you will drive back to Gondar and take a flight to Addis Ababa. Overnight stay: Addis Ababa Check inn Hotel
Fly to Goba Airport drive Bale Mountains National Park
Upon arrival, meet your driver and head to Dinsho, the park headquarters. In this woodland area of the park, you'll have opportunities to spot various endemic mammals, including the Mountain Nyala, Menelik’s Bushbuck, and Bohor reedbuck. Overnight Nu Goba Hotel
Drive to Sanetti Plateau
After breakfast, drive to Sanetti Plateau, which stands above 4,000 meters and features beautiful Afro-alpine moorland. Spend the day searching for the rare and endangered Ethiopian Wolf, as well as the Ethiopian Hare and various water birds like the Blue-winged Goose, Ruddy Shelduck, and Wattled Crane. Overnight stay: NU Guba Hotel
Full Day at Sanetti Plateau and Harena Forest
Spend the day exploring Sanetti Plateau in search of the elusive Ethiopian Wolf. In the afternoon, drive down to Harena Forest to observe the endemic Bale Monkey feeding on bamboo trees, along with other monkey species. Overnight stay: NU Guba Hotel.
Drive to Awash National Park
After breakfast, depart from Bale Mountains head toward Awash National Park. On the drive, you will pass Lake Beseka and may encounter Olive and Hamadryas baboons, as well as various bird species, including the Somali Golden-breasted Robin, Nile Valley Sunbird, Lineated Pytilia, Red and Yellow Barbet, Yellow-throated Serin, Sombre Chat, and Arabian Bustard. Overnight stay: Doho Lodge and Hot Springs.
Alideghe Wildlife Reserve
After an early breakfast, drive to Alideghe Game Reserve for a game drive. Look for wildlife such as Grevy’s Zebra, Gerenuk, Beisa Oryx, and Somali Ostrich, along with birds like the Brown Snake-Eagle and Secretary Bird. Afterward, head to Doho Lodge for lunch and relax at the natural hot springs. In the afternoon, enjoy a game drive around Ilala Plains, where you may see Beisa Oryx, Somali Oryx, and rare species like the Bat-Eared Fox. Overnight stay: Doho Lodge
Return to Addis Ababa
After a morning excursion around the lodge, begin your journey back to Addis Ababa. Upon arrival, you'll have some free time to relax or further explore the city. In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner at a traditional Ethiopian restaurant, where you can savor local dishes and experience cultural performances. After dinner, you will be transferred to the airport for your international
What's Included
- All domestic flights within Ethiopia
- All airport transfers
- Private 4WD vehicles with fuel (for the Danakil and Tigray regions)
- Comfortable mid-range hotel accommodation (twin/double sharing)
- Camping equipment and full support during camping in the Simien Mountains and Danakil
- All entrance fees and park permits
- Professional Wildlife English-speaking guides
- Local scouts
- All meals provided during trekking in Simein Mountain and Bale mountain
- Daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner throughout the tour
- Bottled water provided during desert excursions
- Government taxes and service charges included International flights to and from Ethiopia
What's Not Included
- Ethiopian tourist visa
- Tips and personal expenses
- Alcoholic beverages
Additional Notes
Physical Requirements:
This tour involves moderate hiking at high altitudes, particularly in the Simien and Bale Mountains. Travelers should possess a reasonable level of fitness and be prepared for walking on uneven terrain. Some locations may exceed altitudes of 4,000 meters, so it is recommended to acclimatize and closely monitor your health.
Photography Tips:
- Bring telephoto lenses for wildlife photography and wide-angle lenses for landscapes.
- Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best lighting for capturing wildlife and scenic shots.
- Carry extra batteries and memory cards, as electricity may be limited in remote lodges.
Wildlife Encounters:
Wildlife sightings depend on natural behavior and cannot be guaranteed. However, the tour maximizes opportunities to observe endemic and rare species, including Ethiopian Wolves, Gelada Baboons, Walia Ibex, and Bale Monkeys.
Climate & Clothing
Temperatures can vary significantly; highland areas can be cold, while lowland parks may be hot. It is advisable to wear layered clothing, sturdy hiking boots, and a waterproof jacket. Sun protection, including hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen, is essential.
Cultural Etiquette
Ethiopia has diverse cultures and traditions; respectful behavior and modest dress are appreciated in rural areas and religious sites. Always ask for permission before photographing locals.
Flights & Transfers
Domestic flights are included in the itinerary, but flight schedules may occasionally change, so flexibility is required. Road transfers may involve rough or mountainous terrain.
Accommodations:
Lodges and hotels have been selected for their proximity to wildlife areas and comfort.
Group Size
This tour is designed for small groups to enhance wildlife viewing and photography opportunities, ensure personalized attention, and minimize environmental impact.
Responsible Tourism:
Visitors are encouraged to follow Leave No Trace principles, avoid disturbing wildlife, and respect local communities and ecosystems.
Important Information
- This tour is organized by Vowland Ethiopia Tour.
- The exact itinerary sequence, details, and pricing of this tour depend on availability.
- If a selected accommodation is fully booked, the operator will recommend a comparable alternative.
- The operator reserves the right to adjust the rates advertised on this website.
More Tours by Vowland Ethiopia Tour
8-Days Journey to Wildlife Safari: Harar, Awash, and Bale Mountains
7-Day Journey to Omo Valley & Danakil Depression
