Awash National Park Tours

If you’re visiting Ethiopia and want to escape the city’s hustle for some genuine nature, a trip to Awash National Park offers just that. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, the reviews and itinerary paint a picture of a well-organized, value-packed adventure that’s perfect for travelers short on time but eager for a taste of Ethiopia’s wild side.

What catches our eye? First, the professional guides and drivers who seem to make the experience seamless and safe; second, the stunning scenery with waterfalls and hot springs; and third, the chance to spot iconic wildlife like oryx, baboons, and possibly leopards. The only thing to consider might be the cost relative to the short duration, but overall, it looks like a fantastic way to maximize a brief stay. This tour is especially suited for those with limited time in Ethiopia who still want a meaningful outdoor experience.

Key Points

• Convenient round-trip transport from Addis Ababa saves time and effort.
• Expert guides enhance wildlife spotting and provide insightful commentary.
• Includes park fees and scout costs, making it a hassle-free experience.
• Short, two-day itinerary is perfect for tight schedules.
• Stunning landscape features like waterfalls and hot springs add to the visual appeal.
• Authentic wildlife sightings with the chance to see leopards or lions, if you’re lucky.

An Overview of an Ethiopian Safari in Just Two Days

This tour is designed for travelers who want a quick but rich taste of Ethiopia’s natural landscape. Starting in Addis Ababa, the journey covers roughly 225 kilometers eastward to Awash National Park, a sizable protected area covering 756 square kilometers of grasslands and woodlands. The route itself promises scenic views, with the Awash River carving through the landscape, providing a natural boundary lined with waterfalls that are especially impressive during the rainy season.

The itinerary begins with airport or hotel pickup, making it very convenient for travelers arriving or staying in Addis Ababa. The fact that round-trip transportation, park entry, and a professional guide are included offers excellent value—especially for those who prefer a hassle-free experience, avoiding the need to rent vehicles or organize logistics independently.

What Makes Awash National Park Special?

The main draw here is the chance to see Africa’s iconic wildlife and stunning scenery in a compact itinerary. The park’s landscape is dominated by acacia woodland and grassland, but what makes it stand out are the waterfalls in the Awash River gorge and the hot springs at Filwoha in the upper Kudu Valley.

Travelers will appreciate the short game drive in the evening—a great opportunity to spot animals like oryx, baboons, warthogs, gazelles, and even Colobus monkeys. Reviewers mention the guides are notably kind and professional, which makes the experience even more enjoyable. One reviewer shared that Joseph, the guide, and Nico, the driver, made them feel at ease and well cared for, which matters when you’re out in the wild.

The chance to see elusive predators such as leopards or lions is a bonus, though sightings depend on luck. The park’s diverse fauna makes it an appealing destination for wildlife enthusiasts wanting to maximize their limited time in Ethiopia.

In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival & Travel
Upon arrival in Addis Ababa, you’ll be greeted by your guide and driver, then set off on the approximately 3-hour drive eastward. During the trip, you’ll likely enjoy the changing scenery, from urban sprawl to open grasslands. The drive itself is part of the adventure, giving you a taste of Ethiopia’s diverse landscapes.

Arrival at Awash National Park
Once inside the park, you’ll visit the Awash River gorge, renowned for its waterfalls—an ideal spot for photos and taking in the natural beauty. The park’s size means you’re always within reach of wildlife.

Evening Game Drive
This short drive is focused on spotting wildlife before night falls. Expect to see oryx, baboons, greater and lesser kudu, warthogs, gazelles, and Colobus monkeys. The guides are experienced in spotting animals and sharing insights into their behavior and the ecosystem. The mention of leopards and lions by some reviewers as being possibly seen highlights the park’s potential for exciting wildlife encounters.

Day 2: Hot Springs & Return
The next morning, you’ll visit Filwoha, with its hot springs surrounded by palm groves, providing a relaxing and picturesque stop. The natural thermal waters have been a draw for centuries and add a unique touch to the safari experience. Then, it’s time to head back to Addis Ababa, with memories of waterfalls, wildlife, and stunning landscapes.

Practical Details and What to Expect

Transportation and guides are included, ensuring a smooth trip without navigating unfamiliar roads. The professional driver and English-speaking guide make logistics effortless, allowing you to focus on the scenery and wildlife.

The cost of $400 per person might seem high for a 2-day tour, but when you factor in park fees, scout fees, transportation, and guided expertise, it’s likely a good value. The tour is designed for small groups or private bookings, which enhances the experience—more personalized attention and flexible scheduling.

The tour starts at 8:00 am from Bole Airport, making it suitable for travelers arriving in the morning or early afternoon. The flexible pickup options and private setting mean it’s great for travelers who value comfort and efficiency.

Note that lunch and dinner are not included, giving you the freedom to choose local eateries or pack snacks. Also, the tour is accessible for travelers with moderate physical fitness, although some walking and short hikes might be involved at the waterfalls and hot springs.

What Reviewers Say

One enthusiastic reviewer called the guides “kind and professional”, emphasizing how they felt at ease during the trip. The same reviewer recommended the tour for those with only a few days in Ethiopia who want to see the country’s natural beauty without sacrificing comfort or organization.

Another mention is the stunning scenery—waterfalls and hot springs—paired with wildlife sightings, which made the short trip worthwhile. The expert guidance appears to be a highlight, with reviewers specifically appreciating the knowledgeable guides who help spot animals and explain the environment.

Who is This Tour Best Suited For?

This tour is ideal for travelers on a tight schedule who want a taste of Ethiopia’s wilderness without the commitment of a longer safari. It’s perfect for nature lovers wanting to see wildlife, scenic waterfalls, and thermal springs in a single trip.

Those interested in photo opportunities will find plenty of stunning vistas and animal encounters, especially during the short game drives. If you’re someone who appreciates well-organized, private tours with experienced guides, this experience hits the mark.

However, if your expectations include in-depth wildlife safaris or multiple days in the wilderness, you might want to consider longer or more in-depth options.

The Sum Up

For anyone seeking a compact, well-organized introduction to Ethiopia’s natural beauty, this 2-day Awash National Park tour offers excellent value. The inclusion of transport, park fees, and professional guides means you can relax and concentrate on enjoying the scenery and wildlife.

Travelers who appreciate knowledgeable guides and authentic wildlife sightings will enjoy the chance to spot animals and explore waterfalls and hot springs. Its short duration makes it perfect for those with limited time but eager for a meaningful outdoor experience.

This tour is a strong choice for adventure seekers, nature enthusiasts, and first-time visitors wanting to see Ethiopia beyond Addis Ababa without overextending their schedule. Just be prepared for a full but rewarding experience that packs a lot of natural beauty into two days.

FAQs

What is included in the tour price?
The tour price covers round-trip transportation, park entrance and scout fees, a professional guide, and hotel or airport pickup and drop-off.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the tour provides a car with a professional driver, ensuring a smooth and safe journey from Addis Ababa to Awash National Park.

How long is the drive from Addis Ababa to the park?
The drive is approximately 225 kilometers east of Addis Ababa and typically takes around 3 hours.

Are meals included?
No, lunch and dinner are not included, so you can bring your own snacks or plan to eat locally upon return.

Can I see wildlife like leopards or lions?
While sightings depend on luck, reviews mention the possibility of spotting leopards and other big cats during the game drive.

What’s the best time to go?
While not explicitly stated, the waterfalls and wildlife highlight the appeal of visiting when the scenery is lush and animals are active, typically during the dry or post-rain seasons.

This tour offers a compact yet authentic taste of Ethiopia’s wilderness, making it a memorable addition to any Ethiopian itinerary.