Ethiopia Safaris

Whilst Ethiopia may lack the abundance of big game that neighbouring East African countries, namely Kenya and Tanzania, boast, it does have some incredible endemic wildlife that makes it a rewarding destination for your next safari holiday.

Chief amongst the wildlife areas is the hugely popular Bale Mountains National Park in the south-east of the country, home to the Ethiopian wolf – the world’s rarest canid, the Bale monkey, giant forest hog and giant mole rat to name but a few – in fact there are well over 70 different mammal species. With diverse birdlife and rare reptiles, this beautiful area should be high up your list of places to visit, especially as the quality of the guiding rivals anywhere else in Africa.

Further north the breath-taking Simien Mountains National Park is home to gelada baboons also known as the ‘bleeding heart monkey’ and walia ibex, both endemic species that are easily found amongst the craggy mountains and open plateaus.

These two areas are easily combined on our “Wildlife on the roof of Africa” trip, which also includes some of the north’s key historical sites.

Visitors passing through the Omo Valley, notably the Mago National Park, will often see black-backed jackal as they drive. There is evidence of lion, leopard and elephant within the park, although sightings are extremely rare and exciting events.

Hardier travellers will relish the chance to head to the Gambella National Park in the west of the country, where the migration of white-eared kob between Ethiopia and neighbouring Sudan is one of the largest mammal migrations in the world. Bespoke camping trips with one of Africa’s leading mobile safari operators are the best way to explore Gambella and are a true adventure for those who make the journey.