Bale Mountains Trek - 6-Day
Overview
This 6-day trek offers a unique opportunity to explore one of Ethiopia’s most stunning and diverse national parks, known for its rich wildlife and breathtaking landscapes.
Day One
Arrival in Addis Ababa
- Activities:
- Arrival in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia’s capital.
- Meet your guide at the airport and transfer to your hotel.
- Rest and relax after your journey. If time permits, a short city tour can be arranged.
- Accommodation: Hotel in Addis Ababa.
- Meals: Breakfast.
Day Two
Addis Ababa to Dinsho
Drive: Approximately 7-8 hours (400 km).
Activities:
Early morning drive from Addis Ababa to Dinsho, the gateway to Bale Mountains National Park.
Arrival in Dinsho, where you’ll register at the park headquarters.
Begin the trek with a short hike around Dinsho to acclimatize and spot wildlife like the Mountain Nyala and Menelik’s Bushbuck.
Accommodation: Camping at Dinsho or lodge.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Day Three
Trek from Dinsho to Sodota
- Trek Distance: 20 km (6-7 hours of trekking).
- Activities:
- Start the trek from Dinsho to Sodota through the lush highlands of the Bale Mountains.
- Pass through the Gaysay Grasslands, where you might see endemic wildlife like the Ethiopian wolf.
- Enjoy scenic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys.
- Accommodation: Camping at Sodota.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Day Four
Trek from Sodota to Wasama
Trek Distance: 18 km (6-7 hours of trekking).
Activities:
Continue trekking from Sodota to Wasama.
Hike through the Afro-alpine meadows and moorlands, crossing small streams and rivers.
Enjoy panoramic views of the Wasama Valley.
Accommodation: Camping at Wasama.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Day Five
Trek from Wasama to Gebre Guracha
- Trek Distance: 15 km (5-6 hours of trekking).
- Activities:
- Trek from Wasama to Gebre Guracha.
- Pass through the scenic Sanetti Plateau, home to various bird species and wildlife.
- Reach Gebre Guracha, where you’ll camp by the beautiful alpine lake.
- Accommodation: Camping at Gebre Guracha.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Day Six
Trek to the Sanetti Plateau and Return to Addis Ababa
Trek Distance: 10 km (4-5 hours of trekking).
Activities:
Morning trek to the Sanetti Plateau, the highest point in the Bale Mountains, offering breathtaking views.
Spot the Ethiopian wolf, which is endemic to this region.
Drive back to Addis Ababa in the afternoon.
Evening arrival in Addis Ababa for a farewell dinner.
Accommodation: Departure or optional hotel stay in Addis Ababa.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Tour Includes and Excludes
Tour Inclusions:
- Professional guide and local guides.
- Accommodation as listed (camping or lodges).
- Meals as listed.
- Transportation (4×4 vehicles).
- Park fees and permits.
- Camping equipment (excluding personal items like sleeping bags).
Tour Exclusions:
- International flights.
- Personal expenses (tips, souvenirs).
- Travel insurance.
- Alcoholic beverages.
- Sleeping bags and personal camping gear.