From Addis Ababa: 2-Day Awash National Park Tour with Dinner

Exploring Ethiopia’s Natural Beauty: A 2-Day Awash National Park Tour from Addis Ababa

If you’re looking to escape the city buzz and dive into Ethiopia’s wild side, this 2-day tour to Awash National Park offers a compelling mix of wildlife, geothermal wonders, and cultural experiences. While I haven’t personally taken this trip, reviews and detailed itineraries paint a vivid picture of what travelers can expect—making it a fantastic option for those craving authentic Ethiopian landscapes with a comfortable touch.

What drew us in are the chance to see iconic wildlife like oryx and kudu, the stunning vistas of the Awash River Gorge, and the relaxing hot springs at Sodere. Plus, the inclusion of a traditional dinner topped with a coffee ceremony makes this more than just a safari—it’s an immersive cultural journey. That said, it’s worth noting that this tour is best suited for those comfortable with a bit of rugged outdoor activity, as it involves a fair amount of driving and walking. If you’re after a deep dive into Ethiopia’s natural treasures without fuss, this tour aligns well with your travel style.

Contents show

Key Points

Wildlife Encounters: Best suited for nature lovers eager to spot animals like oryx, baboons, and kudu.
Cultural Experiences: Enjoy a traditional Ethiopian dinner with a coffee ceremony and folkloric dances.
Natural Hot Springs: The Sodere hot springs offer a relaxing dip after exploring.
Comfort & Convenience: All transportation, guiding, and meals are included, emphasizing value.
Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with insights into local wildlife and geography.
Limited Time: Perfect for a quick escape—just two days from Addis Ababa, making it accessible for most travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What makes this tour stand out?

This 2-day trip from Addis Ababa combines wildlife viewing with culture, giving you a well-rounded Ethiopian experience without needing to commit a week away. Starting with a drive eastward, the journey covers approximately 225 kilometers—roughly 4-5 hours—so comfortable transportation is key. The tour is operated by Essence Ethiopia Tours, known for their reliable service and friendly guides, which adds to the overall value.

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Addis Ababa

Day 1: From Addis Ababa to Awash National Park

The journey begins early, with pick-up arranged at your hotel or the airport—convenient if you’re arriving in Ethiopia. As you head out of the capital, the landscape transitions from urban sprawl to expansive grasslands and woodland. The drive is a good opportunity to get a first glimpse of Ethiopia’s varied terrain.

Once inside the park, the real excitement kicks in. The park spans 756 square kilometers, filled with acacia trees and open grasslands—ideal for spotting wildlife. Your guide, often described as knowledgeable and friendly, will navigate you through the park’s main highlights. One of the main attractions is the Awash River Gorge, famous for its waterfalls and dramatic cliffs. Guides usually mention that the gorge’s scenery is a highlight, with some reviewers noting the photos taken here are “breathtaking.”

The upper Kudu Valley at Filwoha is where the geothermal activity is concentrated, with hot springs surrounded by lush palms. Visitors often find this area tranquil and uniquely beautiful. The guides have been praised for their ability to spot wildlife—”even when the animals are hidden, they seem to know where to look,” one reviewer remarked. Typical sightings include oryx, baboons, warthogs, gazelles, and Columbus monkeys. Some lucky travelers have even glimpsed predators such as leopards or lions lurking nearby, though these sightings are rare.

In the evening, a brief game drive introduces you to the park’s flora and fauna, providing a snapshot of Africa’s wilderness. The landscapes, framed by the Awash Gorge, are impressive and offer plenty of photo opportunities. The experience is not only about spotting animals but also about soaking in the vast, rugged beauty of Ethiopia’s natural environment.

Day 2: Return and Relaxation

After breakfast, the return journey to Addis Ababa begins, but not before a stop at Sodere, a well-known hot springs resort. Here, travelers often praise the opportunity to relax in the warm waters, which are said to have therapeutic properties. The hot springs are a perfect way to unwind after two days of exploring, and reviews highlight the clean, well-maintained facilities.

Back in the city, the tour culminates with a traditional Ethiopian folkloric dinner. Expect a vibrant display of dance and music representing Ethiopia’s diverse ethnic groups. The dinner includes a variety of local dishes, giving you a taste of Ethiopia’s flavorful cuisine. The coffee ceremony—with freshly roasted beans freshly ground—adds an authentic touch that many travelers find memorable.

The tour ends with a transfer back to your starting point, typically the airport or your hotel, making it a seamless experience.

The Value of the Tour

At $500 per person, this tour offers notable value for a well-rounded, hassle-free experience. All transportation, full-board meals, a knowledgeable guide, a short game drive, and cultural activities like the dinner and coffee ceremony are included—saving you the stress of planning logistics independently.

While the price might seem like a premium, it reflects the convenience of guided transportation and the opportunity to see Ethiopia’s wildlife and geothermal features without the need for extensive planning. Plus, reviews mention that guides are particularly attentive and eager to share insights, which adds depth to your understanding of Ethiopia’s natural features.

More Great Tours Nearby

Practical Details to Keep in Mind

Transportation: Comfortable car with air conditioning is used for the drive.
Timing: The drive to Awash is about 4-5 hours, so starting early from Addis is recommended.
Group Size: Typically operated as a small-group tour, providing a more intimate experience.
Meals: Full board, including dinner with a folkloric dance show and a coffee ceremony.
What to Bring: Comfortable shoes, hat, camera, sunscreen, and water. Smoking is not allowed.
Accessibility: Not suitable for wheelchair users or individuals with significant back problems.
Flexibility: You can reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility in your travel planning.

There's plenty more to explore in Addis Ababa

Authentic Experiences

Many reviewers highlight the friendliness of the guides—a key part of this tour’s appeal. Guides often go beyond the script, offering interesting facts about wildlife and the landscape, enriching your appreciation of Ethiopia’s ecosystems.

The hot springs at Sodere are a bonus that often surprises visitors, providing a soothing end to an active day. The combination of wildlife, geothermal features, and culture creates a multi-layered experience that appeals to adventurous travelers and culture seekers alike.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a focused look at Ethiopia’s wildlife and natural hot springs without the hassle of independent planning. It suits those with a moderate level of fitness, comfortable with a fair amount of driving and outdoor walks. If you’re interested in cultural experiences like the coffee ceremony and folkloric dances, this trip also delivers.

It’s perfect for first-timers to Ethiopia wanting a comprehensive introduction in just two days, or for those on a tight schedule who still wish to see some of the country’s most striking landscapes. However, if you’re sensitive to long drives or seeking luxury accommodation, you might want to consider other options or extend your stay.

The Sum Up

This 2-day Awash National Park tour offers a compelling blend of wildlife viewing, geothermal relaxation, and cultural richness—all accessible from Addis Ababa. The expert guides and well-organized itinerary make it a reliable choice for those wanting to experience Ethiopia’s natural beauty without the complexity of independent travel.

Travelers who appreciate a mix of adventure and culture, and who desire a taste of Ethiopia’s wild landscapes within a short timeframe, will find this tour rewarding. The inclusion of hot springs and a traditional dinner adds authentic touches that elevate the experience beyond a basic safari.

While it’s not tailored for those seeking luxury or extensive travel flexibility, it strikes a good balance between value and memorable adventure. For anyone eager to explore Ethiopia’s unique ecosystems and warm hospitality, this tour provides a meaningful and enjoyable introduction.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, transportation by a comfortable car is part of the package, making the journey from Addis Ababa smooth and convenient.

What wildlife might I see?
You could see animals like oryx, baboons, greater and lesser kudu, warthogs, gazelles, and Columbus monkeys. Occasionally, lucky travelers spot leopards or lions.

Are meals included?
Full board meals are included, featuring a traditional Ethiopian dinner with a coffee ceremony and folkloric dances in Addis Ababa.

Can I participate if I don’t enjoy outdoor activities?
The tour involves some walking and outdoor exploration, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with these activities.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, a hat, camera, sunscreen, and water. Remember, smoking is not allowed during the tour.

Is the tour suitable for children or elderly?
While suitable for most, it’s not recommended for those with significant back problems or mobility issues, and children should be prepared for the drive and outdoor environment.

How long is the drive?
The drive from Addis Ababa to Awash National Park is approximately 4-5 hours each way.

Can I book this tour last minute?
Yes, you can reserve your spot now and pay later, providing flexibility in your travel plans.

What if I want to cancel?
Cancellation is allowed up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it a flexible option for travelers with changing plans.

Embark on this quick yet enriching journey to Ethiopia’s wild side and geothermal wonders—an experience that combines nature, culture, and comfort in a single, memorable package.