6-Day Ethiopia Rift Valley Tour– Wildlife and Culture

• You'll be collected from the airport.
• Accommodation before the tour starts can be arranged for an extra cost.

Addis Ababa-Hawassa

Depart Addis Ababa and travel south through the scenic Ethiopian Rift Valley, known for its dramatic landscapes, fertile plains, and chain of lakes. En route, stop at Lake Ziway for birdwatching, where pelicans, storks, fish eagles, and other water birds are commonly seen.
Continue to Abijatta–Shalla National Park, a striking volcanic area characterized by alkaline lakes, open savannah, and seasonal flamingos. Upon arrival, enjoy a short game drive inside the park to observe wildlife and birdlife in their natural habitat. This is followed by a guided walking safari, allowing closer observation of the landscape, bird species, and unique ecosystems while learning about the park’s natural features.
After wildlife viewing and photography, continue the scenic drive to Hawassa, arriving in the late afternoon for overnight stay.

Main Destination:

Awasa (City)

Accommodation:

Haile Resort Hawassa

• Mid-range resort located in Awasa (City)

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Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Hawassa & Yirga Alem

Begin the day with a visit to the Hawassa Fish Market, a lively lakeside scene where fishermen bring in their daily catch, offering an authentic insight into local livelihoods and traditions.
Later, travel to Yirga Alem, a lush highland area known for its coffee-growing heritage and rich vegetation. Upon arrival at Aregash Lodge, enjoy a guided walking safari through the lodge’s indigenous forest and tranquil grounds. This nature walk allows close observation of birdlife, native trees, and the surrounding ecosystem while learning about the area’s biodiversity.
The remainder of the afternoon is free to relax and enjoy the peaceful natural setting of Aregash Lodge, surrounded by forested landscapes and shaded pathways.

Main Destination:

Yirga Alem (Town)

Accommodation:

Aregash Lodge

• Mid-range lodge located in Yirga Alem (Town)

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Meals & Drinks:

• Breakfast & lunch (Dinner not included)
• Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Yirga Alem - Arba Minch

After breakfast, depart Yirga Alem and drive south toward Arba Minch, passing through the fertile landscapes of Wolaita Sodo. Along the way, observe rural life, traditional villages, and agricultural scenery that reflect the cultural richness of southern Ethiopia. Several comfort and refreshment stops are made en route for short breaks and photography.
In the late afternoon, upon arrival in Arba Minch, enjoy a short game drive in a nearby natural area / park (such as Nech Sar National Park surroundings), offering the opportunity to spot local wildlife and bird species while taking in scenic views of Lakes Abaya and Chamo.
After the game drive, transfer to the lodge or hotel for overnight stay.

Main Destination:

Arba Minch (City)

Accommodation:

Haile Resort Arba Minch

• Mid-range hotel located in Arba Minch (City)

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Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Lake Chamo & Dorze Cultural Visit

This morning, enjoy a boat safari on Lake Chamo, part of the Nech Sar ecosystem, renowned for its large Nile crocodiles, pods of hippos, and abundant birdlife. The calm waters and dramatic shoreline provide excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing and photography.
Later in the day, travel into the surrounding highlands to visit a Dorze village. Upon arrival, take part in a guided walking safari through the village, exploring the traditional bamboo beehive-shaped houses and observing daily life. Learn about the Dorze people’s renowned cotton weaving techniques, cultural traditions, and way of life during this respectful cultural experience.
This combination of wildlife viewing and walking exploration offers a balanced insight into both nature and culture in southern Ethiopia.

Main Destination:

Lake Chamo

Accommodation:

Haile Resort Arba Minch

• Mid-range hotel located in Arba Minch (City)

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Forty Springs & Leisure

Today, visit the scenic Forty Springs, a freshwater oasis located within Nech Sar National Park, known for its shaded paths, clear natural springs, and tranquil environment. Enjoy a guided walking safari through the area, allowing time to observe the surrounding vegetation, birdlife, and unique ecosystems while learning about the park’s natural features.
The afternoon is free for leisure at the resort. Guests may relax by the swimming pool, enjoy the peaceful setting, or unwind after several days of wildlife and cultural exploration.

Main Destination:

Arba Minch (City)

Accommodation:

Haile Resort Arba Minch

• Mid-range hotel located in Arba Minch (City)

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Arba Minch-Addis Ababa

After breakfast, transfer to Arba Minch Airport for the scheduled midday domestic flight back to Addis Ababa, marking the conclusion of your Rift Valley Discovery Journey. Upon arrival, guests may connect with international flights or continue with onward arrangements.

Main Destination:

No major destination visited

Accommodation:

No accommodation (End of tour)

Meals & Drinks:

• Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included)
• Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

• Additional accommodation can be arranged for an extra cost.
• You'll be dropped off at the airport.