8 Days Harar, bale mountain and Awash safari tour.

8 Days Harar, Bale Mountain, and Awash Safari Tour Review

Traveling to Ethiopia offers an opportunity to explore some of Africa’s most unique landscapes and culturally rich cities. This 8-day tour, organized by vowland Ethiopia Tour, promises a journey that combines wildlife encounters, scenic hikes, and ancient traditions. It’s a comprehensive experience designed for those who want a taste of Ethiopia’s diverse natural beauty and historic charm.

What makes this tour particularly appealing are the highlights such as witnessing the Hyena Man feeding ritual, exploring the rare Ethiopian wolf in Bale Mountains, and venturing into the lush Harenna Forest. The itinerary balances adventure with culture, making it suitable for travelers eager to experience both Ethiopia’s wild and human stories.

One possible concern is the lengthy drives involved, especially the 6-7 hour drives between major sites. Travelers who prefer short travel times or are prone to motion sickness might want to prepare accordingly. Still, these drives offer some of the best scenic views Ethiopia has to offer, and the comfortable land cruisers equipped with fuel and driver expertise help ease the journey.

This tour is perfect for travelers who enjoy active days, wildlife sightings, and exploring off-the-beaten-path locations. It’s ideal for those with moderate fitness levels who appreciate cultural stories and stunning landscapes. If you’re ready for a true adventure into Ethiopia’s lesser-known corners, this tour could be a fantastic pick.

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Key Points

Authentic Wildlife Encounters: Spot rare species like the Ethiopian wolf and mountain nyala.
Cultural Highlights: Experience Harar’s ancient walls and the Hyena Man ritual.
Scenic Landscapes: Hike the Sanetti Plateau and explore lush Harenna Forest.
Adventure & Comfort: All transportation is included in comfortable vehicles, making long drives manageable.
Accommodation Range: From hotels in Addis to eco-lodges in Bale, experience local charm and comfort.
Value for Money: At $1,390, the tour offers a well-rounded package including entrance fees and guides.

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The Complete Experience in Ethiopia’s Natural and Cultural Heartland

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Starting in Addis Ababa

Your journey begins in Ethiopia’s bustling capital, Addis Ababa. The first day offers a gentle introduction with a city tour, visiting the National Museum, home of the famous fossil Lucy, and enjoying panoramic views from Mount Entoto. Staying at the Damat Hotel, you get a taste of local hospitality and comfort before heading out into the wild.

The highlight here is the seamless transition from urban sights to wilderness, setting the tone for the adventure ahead. Having a knowledgeable guide helps unravel the city’s stories and local nuances, enriching your understanding of Ethiopia’s layered history.

Flight to Dire Dawa and Drive to Harar

The next morning includes a short flight to Dire Dawa, followed by a drive to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Harar. This ancient city’s walls hide a labyrinth of narrow streets, mosques, and markets. The guide will likely point out the significance of Harar’s religious and cultural blend, with 37 mosques and hundreds of shrines shaping its identity.

A real treat here is the Hyena Man feeding ritual, where locals gather at night to watch hyenas approach the city streets for food. Several reviewers mention it as a captivating, almost surreal experience, with one noting, “It’s like watching a piece of living folklore unfold before your eyes.” This ritual offers an authentic glimpse into local beliefs and coexistence with wildlife.

Journey to Awash National Park

Leaving Harar, you’ll head towards Awash National Park, a drive that takes approximately 6-7 hours. It might seem long, but the scenery shifts between semi-arid plains and lush river valleys. The park is a wildlife haven, with animals like giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, and a rich birdlife. You’ll visit Awash Falls, hot springs, and enjoy your first game drive.

Guests have shared that the park’s landscape is “stunning,” and the chance to see animals in their natural habitat makes it worth the long journey. The accommodation at Kuriftu Resort & Spa offers a comfortable spot to relax after a day of exploration.

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A Full Day in Awash

On Day 4, the park opens up more opportunities for wildlife viewing, with morning and afternoon game drives. You’ll visit the Awash River Gorge, a significant site for birders and nature lovers. The nearby hot springs are perfect for unwinding, and some reviews mention how relaxing it is to soak after hours in the vehicles.

The park’s diversity makes it a highlight, especially for those interested in African fauna. Expect to see warthogs, antelopes, monkeys, and possibly even the elusive crocodiles in the river.

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Heading into the Bale Mountains

The drive from Awash to Bale Mountains is approximately 7-8 hours, passing through changing landscapes that elevate from plains to highland terrain. The Bale Mountains are renowned for their alpine meadows and endemic species, including the iconic Ethiopian wolf, which is one of the rarest canids in the world.

Once arrived, the atmosphere shifts to cooler, mountain air, with accommodations at Wabi Sebele Hotel providing a cozy base. The journey itself reveals Ethiopia’s great ecological diversity—something you’ll appreciate if you love scenery and nature.

Exploring Bale Mountain National Park

Day 6 is dedicated to exploring Bale Mountains National Park. You’ll hike across the Sanetti Plateau, where the vast, open landscape and rugged terrain showcase the high-altitude environment. This area is a standout for wildlife enthusiasts, as it hosts the Ethiopian wolf, Bale monkey, and mountain nyala.

Hikers note that the terrain is challenging but rewarding, with expansive views and close encounters with endemic species. The park’s ecosystem is fragile and unique, making each sighting more special. Guides often emphasize the importance of staying on designated paths to protect this rare habitat.

Excursion into Harenna Forest

On Day 7, you’ll venture into the Harenna Forest, one of Ethiopia’s largest and most biodiverse forests. The lush greenery, cool mist, and endemic birds create a striking contrast to the highlands. Visitors often see baboons, various bird species, and enjoy the serenity of the forest.

Reviews highlight the forest’s beauty, with one traveler mentioning, “It’s like stepping into a different world—so lush and alive.” Returning to the campsite in the afternoon, you’ll have time to relax, perhaps reflecting on your mountain and forest adventures.

Return to Addis Ababa

Your final day involves a drive back to Robe Airport for the flight to Addis Ababa. The included farewell dinner offers a chance to share stories and highlights from your trip before departure. It’s a thoughtful way to wrap up this diverse exploration.

The Value and Who It’s For

The $1,390 price tag covers a lot: all accommodations, entrance fees, guides, land transport, and some meals. For the scope of the experience—covering multiple major sites, wildlife sightings, and cultural activities—it’s a strong value. Travelers with a moderate level of fitness will enjoy the hikes and game drives, while the comfortable vehicles and well-chosen accommodations make the long drives less taxing.

What truly sets this tour apart is its focus on Ethiopia’s lesser-visited regions, offering authentic wildlife encounters and cultural moments away from crowded tourist spots. It’s a package that balances adventure and comfort, making it suitable for curious travelers who want a comprehensive Ethiopian experience.

Final Thoughts

This 8-day safari is a solid choice for those who want to see Ethiopia’s wild side while also soaking in its cultural richness. The itinerary offers a thoughtful mix of wildlife, landscapes, and local traditions, all wrapped in manageable travel times with reliable transport and guides.

The inclusion of key highlights like Harar’s historical walls, the Hyena Man ritual, the rare Ethiopian wolf, and the lush Harenna Forest ensures that you’ll leave with a well-rounded understanding of Ethiopia’s diverse treasures. The tour’s value lies not just in the sights but in the stories and experiences that make Ethiopia a truly distinctive destination.

For travelers keen on discovering Ethiopia’s natural beauty with a comfortable and organized plan, this safari provides a memorable, authentic adventure. It’s best suited for those with a spirit of exploration, a love for wildlife, and an appreciation for cultural authenticity.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families with children?
This tour is generally not recommended for children under 12, mainly because of the long drives and some physical activity involved like hiking and game drives.

What kind of accommodation will I stay in?
Guests stay in a mix of comfortable hotels, eco-lodges, and campsites, chosen for their location and local charm. Some reviews mention the cozy, authentic feel of the lodges.

Are meals included?
Breakfast is included in the accommodation, but lunch and dinner are not. Travelers should plan to purchase meals at local restaurants or pack snacks for the drives.

How fit do I need to be?
A basic level of fitness is recommended, as the tour involves moderate to long drives and some light hiking across uneven terrain.

What wildlife might I see?
Expect to see animals like giraffes, zebras, warthogs, buffaloes, and bird species. The Bale Mountains offer the chance to see rare wildlife such as the Ethiopian wolf, mountain nyala, and Bale monkeys.

Are domestic flights included?
Yes, the flights between Addis Ababa and Dire Dawa, as well as Robe to Addis, are included but depend on availability. Early booking is advised.

What should I bring?
Essential items include comfortable shoes, warm clothing, a hat, camera, hiking shoes, sunscreen, water, binoculars, and trekking gear. Pack light but prepare for different climates.

Is this tour eco-friendly?
The tour emphasizes biodegradable products and discourages littering, but travelers are encouraged to follow eco-conscious practices during their trip.

Can I customize this tour?
Yes, some operators offer flexible and private options, but specific details should be checked with the provider beforehand.

This 8-day safari offers a balanced combination of Ethiopia’s natural wonder, cultural richness, and adventure. For those ready to explore the country’s lesser-known but incredibly rewarding corners, it’s a trip worth considering.