Afar & Danakil Depression, Ethiopia
    Very Quiet
    Malaria: Low

    Safari in Yangudi Rassa National Park

    Located in the Afar region, Yangudi Rassa National Park is a semi-arid to arid landscape of plains, volcanic hills, and the Awash River. It's primarily known as the last stronghold of the critically endangered African wild ass in Ethiopia, and also hosts Grevy's zebra, Soemmerring's gazelle, and various desert-adapted species.

    Best timeOctober to March (dry season) for the Simien Mountains and Bale Mountains.
    Species
    9
    Big Five
    1/5
    Area
    4,731 km²
    Recommended stay
    3-4 days
    Est.
    1999

    Yangudi Rassa National Park Map

    Park location

    The African Big 5

    1 of 5 found in Yangudi Rassa National Park

    Lion
    Elephant
    Buffalo
    Leopard
    Rhino

    Recent sightings at Yangudi Rassa National Park

    Sign in to report

    9 species recorded in Yangudi Rassa National Park4 threatened

    No lodges listed for this park yet.

    Try searching nearby lodges on Go2Africa or SafariBookings.

    Book Safari Experiences in Yangudi Rassa National Park

    Game drives, guided tours, and unique experiences in Yangudi Rassa National Park

    Ethiopia offers incredible diversity, and we believe the best time to visit depends on your priorities. For dramatic highland scenery and endemic wildlife like the gelada baboon and Walia ibex, the...

    January

    Now
    low

    Dry Season

    Clear skies and cool temperatures prevail across most of the country. The Simien Mountains can be quite cold, especially at night, but daytime is pleasant for hiking.

    This is an excellent time for birding as resident birds are active and resident wildlife is easily spotted against the dry landscape. The Ethiopian wolf is often seen hunting in the highlands.

    We love January for its crisp air and clear views, making it perfect for trekking in the Simien Mountains and spotting the unique gelada baboons.

    Simien Mountains National Park
    Bale Mountains National Park

    February

    low

    Dry Season

    The dry season continues with warm, sunny days and cool nights. Rainfall is minimal, offering excellent visibility and accessibility to all regions.

    Wildlife viewing remains superb as animals congregate around water sources. It's a prime time for observing the Walia ibex on the rocky escarpments.

    We recommend February for its consistently good weather, ideal for exploring the rugged beauty of the Simien Mountains and the diverse ecosystems of Bale.

    Simien Mountains National Park
    Bale Mountains National Park
    Nechisar National Park

    March

    low

    Dry Season

    Temperatures begin to rise, especially in the lowlands, while the highlands remain pleasantly cool. The dry conditions persist, making travel easy.

    The landscape starts to show signs of the approaching rains, but wildlife is still concentrated and visible. Predator sightings can increase as they take advantage of the dry conditions.

    We find March to be a sweet spot before the rains, offering great game viewing and comfortable trekking conditions in the highlands.

    Simien Mountains National Park
    Bale Mountains National Park
    Awash National Park

    April

    low

    Short Rains

    The short rains begin, bringing brief, localized showers, usually in the afternoon. Temperatures are warm to hot, particularly in the Rift Valley.

    The landscape turns a vibrant green, offering beautiful photographic opportunities. Birdlife becomes more active, and the rains can bring out insects, attracting insectivores.

    We enjoy April for the fresh green landscapes and the dramatic skies that often accompany the short rains, especially around the Rift Valley lakes.

    Bale Mountains National Park
    Lake Langano
    Abijatta-Shalla National Park

    May

    low

    Short Rains

    The short rains continue, though they often become less frequent and intense than in April. It remains warm, with occasional showers.

    The vegetation is lush, and wildlife is dispersed. This is a good time for birding, with many migratory birds still present.

    We think May offers a quieter experience with beautiful green scenery, perfect for those who prefer fewer visitors and a more intimate wildlife encounter.

    Bale Mountains National Park
    Awash National Park

    June

    low

    Green Season

    The main rainy season begins, characterized by heavier, more consistent rainfall, especially in the highlands. Temperatures are moderate.

    While some areas might be less accessible, the rains bring life to the land. The Ethiopian wolf is often seen in the Bale Mountains, and the highlands are spectacular.

    We love the dramatic, lush landscapes of June, and the fewer crowds make it a peaceful time to explore the Bale Mountains, despite the possibility of rain.

    Bale Mountains National Park
    Simien Mountains National Park

    July

    low

    Green Season

    This is typically the wettest month, with significant rainfall across much of the country. Roads can become challenging, particularly in remote areas.

    The vegetation is at its lushest. While game viewing can be more challenging due to the dense foliage, the birding is exceptional, and the landscapes are stunning.

    We recommend July for dedicated birdwatchers and photographers who appreciate the dramatic, verdant scenery and the solitude it offers.

    Bale Mountains National Park
    Simien Mountains National Park

    August

    low

    Green Season

    Rainfall continues, though it often starts to decrease towards the end of the month. Temperatures remain moderate. Some higher altitude roads may still be affected.

    The landscape is still very green. The Ethiopian wolf is often seen with pups during this period. The highlands offer fantastic opportunities for spotting unique fauna.

    We find August rewarding for its vibrant green scenery and the chance to see wolf pups in the Bale Mountains, making the occasional rain shower worthwhile.

    Bale Mountains National Park
    Simien Mountains National Park

    September

    low

    Green Season

    The rains begin to taper off, with fewer showers and more sunshine. The landscape remains green and beautiful. Temperatures are pleasant.

    As the rains recede, wildlife begins to congregate more predictably. This is a great month for spotting the Walia ibex and gelada baboons in the Simien Mountains.

    We recommend September for its transition from the green season, offering beautiful landscapes and increasingly reliable wildlife sightings without the peak season crowds.

    Simien Mountains National Park
    Bale Mountains National Park

    October

    moderate

    Dry Season

    The dry season is firmly established with clear skies and warm, sunny days. Temperatures are pleasant in the highlands and warmer in the lowlands.

    This is prime wildlife viewing time as animals gather around waterholes. The Simien Mountains are excellent for spotting the endemic gelada baboons.

    We love October for the return of consistently clear weather, making it ideal for exploring the Simien Mountains and enjoying excellent visibility for wildlife.

    Simien Mountains National Park
    Bale Mountains National Park
    Awash National Park

    November

    moderate

    Dry Season

    Dry and sunny conditions continue. Temperatures are warm during the day and cool at night, particularly in the highlands. Excellent travel conditions.

    Wildlife viewing is excellent across the country. The Danakil Depression is more accessible and less extreme in temperature than in the hottest months.

    We recommend November for its superb weather and accessibility to diverse regions, including the unique landscapes of the Danakil Depression.

    Simien Mountains National Park
    Bale Mountains National Park
    Danakil Depression
    +1

    December

    high

    Dry Season

    The dry season is in full swing with clear skies and pleasant temperatures, though it can be cold in the highlands. Ideal for travel.

    This is a fantastic month for game viewing, with animals readily visible. Birding is also good, with resident species active.

    We find December to be a peak time for its excellent wildlife viewing and comfortable weather, perfect for exploring the dramatic landscapes of the Simien Mountains.

    Simien Mountains National Park
    Bale Mountains National Park
    Nechisar National Park

    January

    Now
    low

    Dry Season

    Clear skies and cool temperatures prevail across most of the country. The Simien Mountains can be quite cold, especially at night, but daytime is pleasant for hiking.

    This is an excellent time for birding as resident birds are active and resident wildlife is easily spotted against the dry landscape. The Ethiopian wolf is often seen hunting in the highlands.

    We love January for its crisp air and clear views, making it perfect for trekking in the Simien Mountains and spotting the unique gelada baboons.

    Simien Mountains National Park
    Bale Mountains National Park

    February

    low

    Dry Season

    The dry season continues with warm, sunny days and cool nights. Rainfall is minimal, offering excellent visibility and accessibility to all regions.

    Wildlife viewing remains superb as animals congregate around water sources. It's a prime time for observing the Walia ibex on the rocky escarpments.

    We recommend February for its consistently good weather, ideal for exploring the rugged beauty of the Simien Mountains and the diverse ecosystems of Bale.

    Simien Mountains National Park
    Bale Mountains National Park
    Nechisar National Park

    March

    low

    Dry Season

    Temperatures begin to rise, especially in the lowlands, while the highlands remain pleasantly cool. The dry conditions persist, making travel easy.

    The landscape starts to show signs of the approaching rains, but wildlife is still concentrated and visible. Predator sightings can increase as they take advantage of the dry conditions.

    We find March to be a sweet spot before the rains, offering great game viewing and comfortable trekking conditions in the highlands.

    Simien Mountains National Park
    Bale Mountains National Park
    Awash National Park

    April

    low

    Short Rains

    The short rains begin, bringing brief, localized showers, usually in the afternoon. Temperatures are warm to hot, particularly in the Rift Valley.

    The landscape turns a vibrant green, offering beautiful photographic opportunities. Birdlife becomes more active, and the rains can bring out insects, attracting insectivores.

    We enjoy April for the fresh green landscapes and the dramatic skies that often accompany the short rains, especially around the Rift Valley lakes.

    Bale Mountains National Park
    Lake Langano
    Abijatta-Shalla National Park

    May

    low

    Short Rains

    The short rains continue, though they often become less frequent and intense than in April. It remains warm, with occasional showers.

    The vegetation is lush, and wildlife is dispersed. This is a good time for birding, with many migratory birds still present.

    We think May offers a quieter experience with beautiful green scenery, perfect for those who prefer fewer visitors and a more intimate wildlife encounter.

    Bale Mountains National Park
    Awash National Park

    June

    low

    Green Season

    The main rainy season begins, characterized by heavier, more consistent rainfall, especially in the highlands. Temperatures are moderate.

    While some areas might be less accessible, the rains bring life to the land. The Ethiopian wolf is often seen in the Bale Mountains, and the highlands are spectacular.

    We love the dramatic, lush landscapes of June, and the fewer crowds make it a peaceful time to explore the Bale Mountains, despite the possibility of rain.

    Bale Mountains National Park
    Simien Mountains National Park

    July

    low

    Green Season

    This is typically the wettest month, with significant rainfall across much of the country. Roads can become challenging, particularly in remote areas.

    The vegetation is at its lushest. While game viewing can be more challenging due to the dense foliage, the birding is exceptional, and the landscapes are stunning.

    We recommend July for dedicated birdwatchers and photographers who appreciate the dramatic, verdant scenery and the solitude it offers.

    Bale Mountains National Park
    Simien Mountains National Park

    August

    low

    Green Season

    Rainfall continues, though it often starts to decrease towards the end of the month. Temperatures remain moderate. Some higher altitude roads may still be affected.

    The landscape is still very green. The Ethiopian wolf is often seen with pups during this period. The highlands offer fantastic opportunities for spotting unique fauna.

    We find August rewarding for its vibrant green scenery and the chance to see wolf pups in the Bale Mountains, making the occasional rain shower worthwhile.

    Bale Mountains National Park
    Simien Mountains National Park

    September

    low

    Green Season

    The rains begin to taper off, with fewer showers and more sunshine. The landscape remains green and beautiful. Temperatures are pleasant.

    As the rains recede, wildlife begins to congregate more predictably. This is a great month for spotting the Walia ibex and gelada baboons in the Simien Mountains.

    We recommend September for its transition from the green season, offering beautiful landscapes and increasingly reliable wildlife sightings without the peak season crowds.

    Simien Mountains National Park
    Bale Mountains National Park

    October

    moderate

    Dry Season

    The dry season is firmly established with clear skies and warm, sunny days. Temperatures are pleasant in the highlands and warmer in the lowlands.

    This is prime wildlife viewing time as animals gather around waterholes. The Simien Mountains are excellent for spotting the endemic gelada baboons.

    We love October for the return of consistently clear weather, making it ideal for exploring the Simien Mountains and enjoying excellent visibility for wildlife.

    Simien Mountains National Park
    Bale Mountains National Park
    Awash National Park

    November

    moderate

    Dry Season

    Dry and sunny conditions continue. Temperatures are warm during the day and cool at night, particularly in the highlands. Excellent travel conditions.

    Wildlife viewing is excellent across the country. The Danakil Depression is more accessible and less extreme in temperature than in the hottest months.

    We recommend November for its superb weather and accessibility to diverse regions, including the unique landscapes of the Danakil Depression.

    Simien Mountains National Park
    Bale Mountains National Park
    Danakil Depression
    +1

    December

    high

    Dry Season

    The dry season is in full swing with clear skies and pleasant temperatures, though it can be cold in the highlands. Ideal for travel.

    This is a fantastic month for game viewing, with animals readily visible. Birding is also good, with resident species active.

    We find December to be a peak time for its excellent wildlife viewing and comfortable weather, perfect for exploring the dramatic landscapes of the Simien Mountains.

    Simien Mountains National Park
    Bale Mountains National Park
    Nechisar National Park

    January

    Now
    low

    Dry Season

    Clear skies and cool temperatures prevail across most of the country. The Simien Mountains can be quite cold, especially at night, but daytime is pleasant for hiking.

    This is an excellent time for birding as resident birds are active and resident wildlife is easily spotted against the dry landscape. The Ethiopian wolf is often seen hunting in the highlands.

    We love January for its crisp air and clear views, making it perfect for trekking in the Simien Mountains and spotting the unique gelada baboons.

    Simien Mountains National Park
    Bale Mountains National Park

    February

    low

    Dry Season

    The dry season continues with warm, sunny days and cool nights. Rainfall is minimal, offering excellent visibility and accessibility to all regions.

    Wildlife viewing remains superb as animals congregate around water sources. It's a prime time for observing the Walia ibex on the rocky escarpments.

    We recommend February for its consistently good weather, ideal for exploring the rugged beauty of the Simien Mountains and the diverse ecosystems of Bale.

    Simien Mountains National Park
    Bale Mountains National Park
    Nechisar National Park

    March

    low

    Dry Season

    Temperatures begin to rise, especially in the lowlands, while the highlands remain pleasantly cool. The dry conditions persist, making travel easy.

    The landscape starts to show signs of the approaching rains, but wildlife is still concentrated and visible. Predator sightings can increase as they take advantage of the dry conditions.

    We find March to be a sweet spot before the rains, offering great game viewing and comfortable trekking conditions in the highlands.

    Simien Mountains National Park
    Bale Mountains National Park
    Awash National Park

    April

    low

    Short Rains

    The short rains begin, bringing brief, localized showers, usually in the afternoon. Temperatures are warm to hot, particularly in the Rift Valley.

    The landscape turns a vibrant green, offering beautiful photographic opportunities. Birdlife becomes more active, and the rains can bring out insects, attracting insectivores.

    We enjoy April for the fresh green landscapes and the dramatic skies that often accompany the short rains, especially around the Rift Valley lakes.

    Bale Mountains National Park
    Lake Langano
    Abijatta-Shalla National Park

    May

    low

    Short Rains

    The short rains continue, though they often become less frequent and intense than in April. It remains warm, with occasional showers.

    The vegetation is lush, and wildlife is dispersed. This is a good time for birding, with many migratory birds still present.

    We think May offers a quieter experience with beautiful green scenery, perfect for those who prefer fewer visitors and a more intimate wildlife encounter.

    Bale Mountains National Park
    Awash National Park

    June

    low

    Green Season

    The main rainy season begins, characterized by heavier, more consistent rainfall, especially in the highlands. Temperatures are moderate.

    While some areas might be less accessible, the rains bring life to the land. The Ethiopian wolf is often seen in the Bale Mountains, and the highlands are spectacular.

    We love the dramatic, lush landscapes of June, and the fewer crowds make it a peaceful time to explore the Bale Mountains, despite the possibility of rain.

    Bale Mountains National Park
    Simien Mountains National Park

    July

    low

    Green Season

    This is typically the wettest month, with significant rainfall across much of the country. Roads can become challenging, particularly in remote areas.

    The vegetation is at its lushest. While game viewing can be more challenging due to the dense foliage, the birding is exceptional, and the landscapes are stunning.

    We recommend July for dedicated birdwatchers and photographers who appreciate the dramatic, verdant scenery and the solitude it offers.

    Bale Mountains National Park
    Simien Mountains National Park

    August

    low

    Green Season

    Rainfall continues, though it often starts to decrease towards the end of the month. Temperatures remain moderate. Some higher altitude roads may still be affected.

    The landscape is still very green. The Ethiopian wolf is often seen with pups during this period. The highlands offer fantastic opportunities for spotting unique fauna.

    We find August rewarding for its vibrant green scenery and the chance to see wolf pups in the Bale Mountains, making the occasional rain shower worthwhile.

    Bale Mountains National Park
    Simien Mountains National Park

    September

    low

    Green Season

    The rains begin to taper off, with fewer showers and more sunshine. The landscape remains green and beautiful. Temperatures are pleasant.

    As the rains recede, wildlife begins to congregate more predictably. This is a great month for spotting the Walia ibex and gelada baboons in the Simien Mountains.

    We recommend September for its transition from the green season, offering beautiful landscapes and increasingly reliable wildlife sightings without the peak season crowds.

    Simien Mountains National Park
    Bale Mountains National Park

    October

    moderate

    Dry Season

    The dry season is firmly established with clear skies and warm, sunny days. Temperatures are pleasant in the highlands and warmer in the lowlands.

    This is prime wildlife viewing time as animals gather around waterholes. The Simien Mountains are excellent for spotting the endemic gelada baboons.

    We love October for the return of consistently clear weather, making it ideal for exploring the Simien Mountains and enjoying excellent visibility for wildlife.

    Simien Mountains National Park
    Bale Mountains National Park
    Awash National Park

    November

    moderate

    Dry Season

    Dry and sunny conditions continue. Temperatures are warm during the day and cool at night, particularly in the highlands. Excellent travel conditions.

    Wildlife viewing is excellent across the country. The Danakil Depression is more accessible and less extreme in temperature than in the hottest months.

    We recommend November for its superb weather and accessibility to diverse regions, including the unique landscapes of the Danakil Depression.

    Simien Mountains National Park
    Bale Mountains National Park
    Danakil Depression
    +1

    December

    high

    Dry Season

    The dry season is in full swing with clear skies and pleasant temperatures, though it can be cold in the highlands. Ideal for travel.

    This is a fantastic month for game viewing, with animals readily visible. Birding is also good, with resident species active.

    We find December to be a peak time for its excellent wildlife viewing and comfortable weather, perfect for exploring the dramatic landscapes of the Simien Mountains.

    Simien Mountains National Park
    Bale Mountains National Park
    Nechisar National Park
    Planning & reference

    Yangudi Rassa offers an unparalleled sense of raw wilderness, a truly off-the-beaten-path experience where we feel like genuine explorers. With its incredibly low crowding, we can immerse ourselves in the stark beauty of the Afar Depression and witness rare species like the Somali wild ass and Grevy's zebra in their undisturbed, natural habitat-it's an unforgettable journey into Ethiopia's wild heart.

    Gate Times

    Yangudi Rassa is a truly wild and remote destination, meaning access isn't through typical gates with fixed opening hours. We strongly recommend arranging your visit through a reputable Ethiopian tour operator who will secure all necessary permits and manage logistics. Generally, park access for game drives and activities is during daylight hours, from sunrise to sunset, but the crucial element is advance planning and permit acquisition, which can take time. There are no seasonal variations in gate times, but the dry season from October to March offers the best conditions for travel and wildlife viewing.

    Tipping

    Tipping is a customary way to show appreciation for excellent service on safari in Ethiopia. For your main safari guide, we suggest budgeting around $15-25 per person per day. Camp staff, including cooks and general assistants, can be tipped collectively, perhaps $5-10 per person per day, placed in a communal tip box if available. Rangers accompanying walks or specific activities might receive $5-10 per person per activity. Always tip in local currency (Ethiopian Birr) or US dollars, and present tips discreetly and with a genuine thank you.

    Dress Code

    Given the arid environment and the best visiting period being the dry season (October to March), we recommend lightweight, breathable clothing in neutral colours-khaki, olive, grey, or brown. These colours help you blend into the environment and are less likely to disturb wildlife. Layers are essential: mornings and evenings can be cool, while midday temperatures are warm. A long-sleeved shirt and trousers offer sun protection and can help deter insects. Sturdy, comfortable closed-toe walking shoes are a must for any potential walks, and a wide-brimmed hat is non-negotiable for sun protection.

    Photography

    Yangudi Rassa offers incredible, stark landscapes and unique wildlife, making for stunning photographic opportunities. We advise bringing a camera with a good zoom lens (at least 300mm) to capture wildlife without disturbance. Always respect the animals' space; never use flash photography at night, as it can disorient and distress them. Drones are generally prohibited in Ethiopian national parks without specific, often hard-to-obtain permits, so we recommend leaving them at home unless you've secured prior official approval. Be patient, observe animal behaviour, and you'll capture truly memorable shots of this unique ecosystem.

    Etiquette

    Safari etiquette is paramount to ensuring both your safety and the well-being of the wildlife and environment. Always remain inside your vehicle unless your guide explicitly instructs otherwise for a designated walking area. Keep noise levels to a minimum; loud talking or sudden movements can scare animals away. Never attempt to feed or approach wildlife. In camp, respect the quiet hours, especially at night, and always follow your guide's instructions regarding safety. Remember, you are a guest in a wild habitat and often on traditional lands of local communities; show respect for both.

    What to Bring

    Binoculars (essential for wildlife viewing)
    Wide-brimmed hat (for sun protection)
    High-SPF sunscreen
    Insect repellent (though malaria risk is low, general insect bites can be annoying)
    Reusable water bottle
    Lightweight, neutral-coloured clothing (layers)
    Sturdy closed-toe walking shoes
    Camera with extra batteries and memory cards
    Headlamp or small flashlight
    Basic first-aid kit (personal medications, pain relievers, antiseptic wipes)
    Small backpack for day trips
    Power bank for charging electronics

    Temperature

    24.96°C

    77°F · Range: 19.41–30.56°C

    Rainfall

    10.4 mm

    Dry season · 2.2 rainy days

    Humidity

    51.3%

    Sunshine

    10.3 hrs/day

    Wind Speed

    4.98 m/s

    17.9 km/h

    Based on 5 years of weather data · Data source: Open-Meteo Archive API

    Yangudi Rassa National Park Reviews