Ethiopia is one of Africa’s most exciting and unique destinations for bird lovers. With over 860 species, including 29 endemics found nowhere else on Earth, Ethiopia offers diverse habitats ranging from highland plateaus to lowland savannas. Adefa Tours takes you to the best birding hotspots across the country, from the Entoto Hills near Addis Ababa to the remote Yabello, spotting rare and beautiful species like the Blue-winged Goose, Spot-breasted Plover, and Wattled Ibis. Our tours are fully customizable to suit your interests, schedule, and budget.
Top Birding Sites in Ethiopia
Entoto Natural Park: Just outside Addis Ababa, perfect for endemic species.
Menagesha Forest: Easy day trip with a wide variety of forest birds.
Debre Libanos: Combines cultural heritage with mountain and forest birding.
Ankobar: Scenic highlands with endemic birds and mammals.
Awash National Park: Ethiopia’s flagship park with diverse acacia woodland species.
Bale Mountains: Trekking and birding hotspot, home to Wattled Ibis and Blue-winged Goose.
Lake Ziway & Lake Langano: Ideal for pelicans, storks, and hippos.
Abijata-Shalla National Park: Perfect for flamingos and Palearctic migrant birds.
Wondo Genet & Lake Awassa: Relaxing birding near hot springs and lakes.
Yabello: Home to the White-tailed Swallow and Ethiopian Bush-crow.
Multi-Day Birdwatching Itinerary (Flexible)
Day 1: Addis Ababa – Entoto Natural Park
Arrival in Addis Ababa and transfer to your hotel. Explore Entoto Hills for endemic species such as the Black-winged Lovebird and Abyssinian Slaty Flycatcher. Optional birding at Addis Ababa Riverside or nearby lakes. Overnight in Addis Ababa.
Days 2–3: Awash National Park
Drive east to Awash National Park, Ethiopia’s premier birding destination. Explore acacia woodlands and riverine forests to spot species like Carmine Bee-eaters, Somali Ostrich, and Gabar Goshawk. Optional visit to the Awash River Gorge and Filwoha Hot Springs. Overnight at a lodge in or near the park.
Days 3–4: Bale Mountains National Park
Travel south to the Bale Mountains, a hotspot for endemic birds. Bird the Sanetti Plateau for Blue-winged Goose, Wattled Ibis, and Rouget’s Rail. Explore Harenna Forest for woodland birds and mammals. Overnight stays in Bale Mountains.
Day 5: Bale Mountains – Wondo Genet – Lake Langano
Visit Wondo Genet to see hot springs and forest birds. Afternoon birding around Lake Langano for kingfishers, herons, and storks. Overnight at a resort by the lake.
Day 6: Lake Ziway & Rift Valley Lakes
Birding around Lake Langano, Lake Abijata, and Lake Shalla. Explore savannah and lakeshore habitats. Afternoon visit to Lake Ziway for waterbirds such as Marabou Storks, Pelicans, and African Fish Eagles. Overnight lakeside or return to Addis Ababa.