6-Days Birding in Southern Ethiopia
Overview
6-Day Southern Ethiopia Birding Tour | Rift Valley Endemics: Spot Prince Ruspoli's turaco and Wattled ibis on a 6-day Southern Ethiopia Birding Tour across Rift Valley lakes, Bale foothills, and savannah woodlands.
This immersive 6-day birding journey takes you through some of Ethiopia’s most ecologically diverse landscapes, from Addis Ababa and Awash National Park to the Rift Valley lakes and the forests of the south. Ethiopia has over 860 recorded bird species, including more than 20 endemics, and expert local guides help birders of all levels make the most of every habitat.
Tour Highlights
- Bird diversity: 300+ species likely on this route, including Abyssinian Ground Hornbill, Wattled Ibis, Thick-billed Raven, White-cheeked Turaco and Banded Barbet
- Rift Valley lakes: flamingos, pelicans, herons and cormorants at Ziway, Langano and Abijatta-Shalla National Park
- Forest birding: montane and riverine forests near Wondo Genet and Yirgalem, home to Silvery-cheeked Hornbill and Black-winged Lovebird
- Nechisar National Park (optional): savanna and Lake Chamo shores, with zebra, hippos and crocodiles
- Landscapes: green hills, acacia woodland, lakeshores and coffee-growing zones
- Eco-lodge stays: bird-friendly lodges, local cuisine, coffee ceremonies and guided nature walks that support local conservation
What To Expect
Visit the historical 13th-century Debre Libanos Monastery, tucked away in a forested hill offering impressive views of rugged montane scenery and excellent birding opportunities.
Resident species include the Ethiopian endemic Harwood’s Francolin, White-billed Starling, and Rüppell’s Cliff Chat, along with others such as Lanner Falcon, White-throated Seedeater, Abyssinian Woodpecker, Foxy Cisticola, Black-faced Firefinch, and the majestic Lammergeier (Bearded Vulture).
Late afternoon, drive back to Addis.
Overnight: Addis Ababa
Leave the capital early and head to the Central Rift Valley, one of Africa’s most important bird migration corridors.
En route, stop at the Bishoftu Crater Lakes to look for woodland species such as Black-winged Lovebird, Blue-breasted Bee-eater, Rüppell’s Robin-chat, Sunbirds, and Rüppell’s Weaver.
Continue to Ziway, the main birding destination for the day, where you’ll spot and photograph a wide variety of species including Rüppell’s Griffon Vulture, Black Egret, African Fish Eagle, Great White Pelican, Yellow-billed Stork, Greater and Lesser Jacana, Lesser Moorhen, Black Crake, and Black-tailed Godwit.
Overnight: Ziway
Drive to the twin lakes of Abijatta and Shalla, known as one of Ethiopia’s best birding destinations.
These scenic lakes are home to over 300 recorded bird species such as Ostrich, Pelicans, Lesser and Greater Flamingos, Migratory Waders, Storks, Cormorants, Hornbills, Starlings, and Sparrow-weavers.
The park is also home to mammals including Warthogs, Hyenas, Baboons, and Gazelles.
Next, continue to Langano to enjoy swimming, lakeshore hikes, and a beautiful sunset.
Overnight: Langano
Leave your lodge early for birding around the acacia woodland and lakeshore to spot both terrestrial and water-associated species.
Return for breakfast, then drive to Hawassa.
The main attraction of Hawassa is its lake, supporting a wide range of water and forest species including Fish Eagle, the colorful Pygmy Goose, Grey Kestrel, Banded Barbet, Abyssinian Oriole, Blue-winged Coucal, Silvery-cheeked Hornbill, Marabou Stork, and Ethiopian endemics like the Yellow-fronted Parrot and Black-winged Lovebird.
Overnight: Hawassa
Visit the Hawassa fish market in the morning as it comes alive with birds and activity.
Next, drive to Wondo Genet, a forested area rich in birdlife.
Target species include Yellow-billed Waxbill, Abyssinian Woodpecker, Half-collared Kingfisher, Olive Thrush, Silver-cheeked Hornbill, Scaly Francolin, African Boubou, Red-winged Starling, Black-winged Lovebird, Yellow-fronted Parrot, African Little Sparrowhawk, Double-toothed Barbet, Lesser-striped Swallow, Mountain Wagtail, and Lemon Dove.
Overnight: Wondo Genet
Begin the day with a guided morning bird walk through the forest.
Then drive to Hawassa and catch your flight back to Addis Ababa, where your short birding adventure—and our services—come to an end.
What's included
- Professional English-speaking local guide
- Private 4WD or tourist vehicle with driver, including fuel
- Accommodation as per the itinerary
- Meals as per the itinerary
- All entrance fees to the sites listed in the itinerary
- Airport and hotel transfers
- Bottled drinking water during the tour
- Government taxes and service charges
What's not included
- International flights, and domestic flights unless stated in the itinerary
- Ethiopian visa (an e-visa can be obtained online)
- Travel and medical insurance
- Tips for the guide and driver
- Alcoholic and soft drinks
- Personal expenses and laundry
- Camera and video fees at sites, unless stated in the itinerary
- Any services not mentioned under What's Included
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
