3-Day Itinerary: Chebera Churchura National Park
Overview
A 3-day wildlife and nature tour to Chebera Churchura National Park, a lush, remote haven in southwestern Ethiopia with dense montane forest, open grasslands and rivers. Guided game drives and nature walks with local rangers make this a rich escape for nature lovers and adventurous travelers.
Tour Highlights
- Elephants: Ethiopia’s largest elephant population, tracked on foot or by 4×4
- Wildlife: buffalo, hippos, bushbuck, warthogs, colobus monkeys and baboons, plus 200+ bird species
- Landscapes: forests, grasslands, river valleys and volcanic features, ideal for photography
- Hot springs and waterfalls: Shoshima Hot Springs and hidden forest waterfalls
- Guided walks: riverine forest walks, elephant tracking with rangers and birding treks
- Community and stay: Dawro and Konta villages, plus a basic eco-lodge or camping near the park
What To Expect
Travel from Addis Ababa to Jimma by air or road and continue to Chebera Churchura National Park, arriving in time for a short game drive.
Morning:
- Depart from Addis Ababa early in the morning by road or take a morning flight to Jimma (approx. 45 minutes by air, or 8–9 hours by road).
- If flying, meet your local driver and guide at Jimma Airport.
Midday:
- Lunch in Jimma town.
- Continue driving to Chebera Churchura National Park via Mizan Teferi. The drive takes approx. 5–6 hours through lush highlands and coffee-growing areas.
Late Afternoon:
- Arrive at the park entrance.
- Short walk or game drive around the park buffer zone to spot antelopes, baboons, and various birds.
Evening:
- Check in to a lodge or local eco-camp near the park.
- Dinner and overnight stay in Chebera.
Overnight: Lodge or eco-camp near Chebera Churchura National Park Included: Transport, guide, park entrance fee, lunch, dinner.
Spend a full day exploring the park on foot and by 4x4, tracking elephants and buffalo and visiting the hot springs and waterfalls.
Morning:
- Early breakfast.
- Full-day guided exploration of the park on foot and by 4x4. This park is unique for walking safaris.
- Track African elephants, buffaloes, warthogs, colobus monkeys, and various species of birds in their natural rainforest habitat.
Midday:
- Picnic lunch near the scenic Shoshima River or hot springs.
Afternoon:
- Visit Majete Hot Springs and waterfalls inside the park. Opportunity for photography and birdwatching.
- Learn about the park’s flora and ecological value.
Evening:
- Return to lodge or camp.
- Relax around the campfire and enjoy traditional Ethiopian meals.
Overnight: Lodge or eco-camp Included: Guide, park ranger, picnic lunch, dinner.
Drive back to Jimma for an optional city visit and take the evening flight to Addis Ababa.
Morning:
- Breakfast at the lodge.
- Depart for Jimma (approx. 5–6 hours drive).
Midday:
- Arrive in Jimma for lunch and short city tour (optional) to visit Jimma Museum or Abba Jifar Palace if time permits.
Afternoon/Evening:
- Catch an evening flight back to Addis Ababa.
- End of the trip.
Included: Breakfast, ground transfer, domestic flight (optional), guide.
What's included
- All ground transport (private 4x4)
- Park entrance fees and ranger
- English-speaking local guide
- Accommodation (lodge or camping)
- Meals as mentioned
What's not included
- Alcoholic drinks
- Personal expenses
- Tips for guide and driver
- Domestic flights (Addis – Jimma – Addis)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to visit Ethiopia?
The best time to visit Ethiopia is during the dry season, which runs from October to April. During this time, the weather is pleasant, and transport/roads are in excellent condition.
Do I need a visa to travel to Ethiopia?
Yes, most nationalities require a visa to enter Ethiopia. You can conveniently apply online for an eVisa prior to your arrival, or obtain a visa on arrival at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport.
What is included in the tour price?
Our tours generally cover all ground transportation, professional guiding services, accommodation, and entrance fees. Please refer to the specific tour's Inclusions/Exclusions section for complete details.
Route Map
Proudly Community-Owned
The communities visitable in this area are warm and friendly. If you would like to support them directly, small donations are highly appreciated:
- Pens and school supplies
- Books
- Used clothes
- Children's items
- Any useful materials you feel may benefit the local community
