10 Days Bale Mountains Trekking

Day 1: Arrival in Bale Mountains

• Arrive in Bale Mountains, which can be accessed from cities like Addis Ababa or Hawassa.
• Check into your chosen accommodation, whether it’s a lodge or guesthouse located near the park.
• Depending on your arrival time, take a short introductory hike to acclimatize and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.

Day 2: Afro-Alpine Flora and Fauna in Sanetti Plateau

• Begin your trek with a visit to the Sanetti Plateau, the highest plateau in Africa.
• Explore the Afro-alpine moorlands, looking for wildlife such as Ethiopian wolves and bird species like Wattled Ibis.
• Camp at the Sanetti Plateau campsite.

Day 3: Hiking in the Sanetti Plateau

• Continue your exploration of the Sanetti Plateau, focusing on different sections of this high-altitude landscape.
• Enjoy the stunning scenery and diverse flora.
• Overnight at the Sanetti Plateau campsite.

Day 4: Trek to Wasama Valley

• Descend from the plateau to the Wasama Valley, a transition zone between Afro-alpine and Harenna Forest.
• Observe the shift in vegetation and birdlife.
• Camp in the Wasama Valley.

Day 5: Wasama Valley to Harenna Forest

• Continue your trek into the lush Harenna Forest, a lowland rainforest.
• Explore the forest trails, with opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife viewing.
• Camp in the Harenna Forest or stay in local guesthouses.

Day 6: Birdwatching and Wildlife in Harenna Forest

• Spend the day birdwatching and observing wildlife in the Harenna Forest.
• Keep an eye out for species like Abyssinian catbirds, White-cheeked Turacos, and Ethiopian baboons.
• Enjoy the peaceful surroundings of the forest.
• Camp or stay in the Harenna Forest area.

Day 7: Trek to Dinsho

• Hike back to the park’s entrance in Dinsho, passing through various habitats.
• Reflect on the diversity of ecosystems you’ve encountered.
• Overnight in Dinsho.

Day 8: Chennek Campsite

• Drive to the Chennek campsite, where you’ll camp for the night.
• This area is known for its resident Walia ibex and other wildlife.

Day 9: Exploration of Chennek

• Spend the day exploring the Chennek area, with opportunities for wildlife viewing and birdwatching.
• Enjoy the stunning landscapes of the rugged cliffs and high plateaus.
• Overnight at the Chennek campsite.

Day 10: Return to Addis Ababa or Departure

• Trek back to the starting point in Dinsho.
• Drive back to Addis Ababa or your departure city.
• If time allows, visit local markets, museums, or cultural sites in the area.
• Depart from Addis Ababa or continue your journey to other parts of Ethiopia.

NOT INCLUDED