Ethiopia is one of Africa’s most rewarding bird-watching destinations, with exceptional biodiversity, endemic species, and dramatic landscapes. This 11-day Ethiopia Bird Watching Tour is designed for executives, professional birders, ornithologists, and bird photographers seeking a focused, high-quality experience in two of the country’s most important birding regions: Bale Mountains National Park and Awash National Park.
The itinerary emphasizes endemic birds, habitat diversity, efficient logistics, and comfortable accommodations, supported by professional birding guides and private transport. It balances field excellence with executive-level comfort and seamless travel planning.
Itinerary
- Arrival at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport
- VIP meet & greet and private transfer
- Tour briefing and introduction to Ethiopian birdlife
- Optional afternoon birding at Entoto Hills (time permitting)
Bird Highlights: Wattled Ibis, White-cheeked Turaco
Overnight: Executive-class hotel in Addis Ababa
- Drive north to Debre Libanos Monastery
- Birding in the Jemma River Gorge, famous for raptors
Bird Highlights: Lammergeier, Rüppell's Vulture, White-billed Starling (endemic)
Overnight: Lodge or hotel near Debre Libanos
- Scenic drive east to Awash National Park
- Afternoon birding along the Awash River and acacia woodland
Bird Highlights: Somali Ostrich, Arabian Bustard, Yellow-throated Serin
Overnight: Safari lodge inside or near Awash National Park
- Full day birding in savanna, riverine forest, and volcanic landscapes
- Optional short game drives for mammals
Bird Highlights: Secretarybird, Abyssinian Roller, Chestnut-bellied Sandgrouse
Overnight: Safari lodge in Awash National Park
- Drive to the Ethiopian Rift Valley
- Afternoon birding at Lake Ziway
Bird Highlights: African Fish Eagle, Malachite Kingfisher, African Jacana
Overnight: Lakeside lodge at Lake Langano
- Scenic drive south to Bale Mountains National Park
- Evening birding around Dinsho headquarters
Bird Highlights: Rouget's Rail (endemic), Abyssinian Ground Thrush
Overnight: Mountain lodge in Dinsho (Bale Mountains)
Birding in grasslands, wetlands, and juniper forest
Bird Highlights: Blue-winged Goose (endemic), Abyssinian Longclaw, Spot-breasted Lapwing
Overnight: Mountain lodge in Dinsho
High-altitude birding on the Sanetti Plateau (4,000 m+)
Bird Highlights: Moorland Francolin (endemic), Alpine Chat, Wattled Ibis
Overnight: Mountain lodge in Dinsho
- Descend to lush forest ecosystems
- Afternoon forest birding in Wondo Genet
Bird Highlights: Narina Trogon, Abyssinian Woodpecker, Silvery-cheeked Hornbill
Overnight: Forest lodge in Wondo Genet
- Morning birding in forest habitats
- Return drive or flight to Addis Ababa
- Farewell executive dinner and tour wrap-up
Bird Highlights: Forest and wetland species en route
Overnight: Hotel in Addis Ababa
Private transfer to Bole International Airport for international departure
