12 Days Danakil, Bale Mountain, Awash And Abijata Shalla Safari Tour 12 days

Day 1: Addis Ababa City Tour

After breakfast, begin a guided city tour of Addis Ababa, the political and cultural capital of Ethiopia. Visit the National Museum, Holy Trinity Cathedral, and the Ethnological Museum located in the former palace of Emperor Haile Selassie. Later, explore Merkato, one of Africa’s largest open-air markets, before returning to your hotel for the evening. Overnight Check-in Hotel

Day 2: Addis Ababa – Semera – Hamedela

In the morning, take a flight from Addis Ababa to Semera in the Afar region. From Semera, you will drive toward Hamedela, passing dramatic desert landscapes and nomadic Afar settlements. In the afternoon, visit the salt lakes and watch local Afar people traditionally extracting salt blocks. Overnight Camping

Day 3: Danakil Depression Exploration

Today, you will explore the colourful mineral formations of the Danakil Depression, one of the hottest places on Earth. Walk among the extraordinary sulfur springs, salt flats, and vibrant hydrothermal landscapes. Later, visit the famous Erta Ale volcanic area to experience the dramatic volcanic environment. Overnight camping

Day 4: Danakil – Semera

After breakfast, begin the journey back through the remarkable desert scenery of the Danakil Depression. Along the way, enjoy views of salt caravans and wide volcanic plains typical of the Afar region. Arrive in Semera in the afternoon and relax at your hotel. Overnight Gudi hotel

Day 5: Semera – Awash National Park

Today you will drive south toward Awash National Park through the scenic Afar landscapes. Upon arrival, start a wildlife safari where you may see animals such as oryx, baboons, warthogs, and several antelope species. The park is also home to many birds, making it a great place for nature lovers. Overnight Genet Hotel

Day 6: Awash National Park – Waterfalls

In the morning, take a guided walk to the beautiful Awash Falls located inside the park. The waterfall flows dramatically through a deep gorge and attracts many birds and monkeys. Spend the rest of the day exploring the park and enjoying its scenic landscapes. Overnight Genet hotel

Day 7: Awash – Ziway

After breakfast, drive through the Ethiopian Rift Valley toward the lakeside town of Ziway. Upon arrival, take a relaxing boat excursion on Lake Ziway. During the boat trip, you may see many birds and hippos resting in the water near the shore. Overnight Haile resort

Day 8: Ziway – Abijatta-Shalla National Park

Today you will drive to Abijatta-Shalla National Park, located in the Rift Valley. Explore the park where you can see small gazelles, warthogs, and large flocks of flamingos around the soda lakes. Enjoy the spectacular scenery of the lakes and volcanic landscapes before returning to the overnight Hija resort.

Day 9: Ziway – Bale Mountains National Park

After breakfast, drive toward the Bale Mountains through the beautiful highland scenery. Upon arrival, visit Dinsho, the headquarters of Bale Mountains National Park. During a short hike, you may see endemic animals such as the Mountain Nyala and Menelik’s Bushbuck. Overnight Nurobe hotel

Day 10: Bale Mountains – Sanetti Plateau and Tullu Dimtu

Today you will explore the spectacular Sanetti Plateau, one of the highest road-accessible plateaus in Africa. The area is famous for its dramatic alpine landscapes and the rare Ethiopian wolf. Continue to Tullu Dimtu, the second-highest peak in Ethiopia, for breathtaking mountain views. Overnight Nurobe hotel

Day 11: Harenna Forest

After breakfast, descend into the lush Harenna Forest on the southern side of the Bale Mountains. This dense forest is home to many wildlife species, including monkeys, birds, and unique plants. Enjoy a relaxing walk through the forest and experience the peaceful natural environment. Overnight Nurobe hotel

Day 12: Bale – Addis Ababa

In the morning, transfer to Bale (Robe/Goba) Airport for your return flight to Addis Ababa. Upon arrival, you may have free time for shopping or relaxing before departure. In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner before your international flight.