Safari in Bale Mountains & Southeast Highlands
Trek through the Afro-alpine wilderness of the Bale Mountains, a biodiversity hotspot for endemic species like the Ethiopian wolf, and surrounding highlands.
Bale Mountains & Southeast Highlands Parks Map
Explore safari parks across Bale Mountains & Southeast Highlands
Bale Mountains & Southeast Highlands Safari Parks
Explore safari parks in Bale Mountains & Southeast Highlands
Bale Mountains National Park
Another UNESCO World Heritage site, Bale Mountains is a biodiversity hotspot, famous for its Afro-alpine moorland, Harenna Forest, and high-altitude plateaus. It's the best place in the world to see the critically endangered Ethiopian wolf and is also home to the mountain nyala, giant mole-rat, and numerous endemic bird species, making it a prime destination for both wildlife enthusiasts and trekkers.
Demaro Controlled Hunting Area
Demaro Controlled Hunting Area is a protected area in Ethiopia.
Hanto East Controlled Hunting Area
Hanto East Controlled Hunting Area is a protected area in Ethiopia.
Hanto West Controlled Hunting Area
Hanto West Controlled Hunting Area is a protected area in Ethiopia.
Hurufa Soma Controlled Hunting Area
Hurufa Soma Controlled Hunting Area is a protected area in Ethiopia.
Odo-Bulu Controlled Hunting Area
Odo-Bulu Controlled Hunting Area is a protected area in Ethiopia.
Shedem-Berbere Controlled Hunting Area
Shedem-Berbere Controlled Hunting Area is a protected area in Ethiopia.
Compare Parks in Bale Mountains & Southeast Highlands
Side-by-side comparison of safari parks in Bale Mountains & Southeast Highlands
| Park | Area | Wildlife | Lodges | Crowds | Malaria | Airport |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bale Mountains National Park | 2,471 km² | 378 | - | Quiet | Moderate | GOB (49km) |
| Demaro Controlled Hunting Area | - | 300 | - | Very Quiet | Moderate | GOB (35km) |
| Hanto East Controlled Hunting Area | - | 378 | - | Very Quiet | Low | GOB (36km) |
| Hanto West Controlled Hunting Area | - | 378 | - | Very Quiet | Low | HAAD (41km) |
| Hurufa Soma Controlled Hunting Area | - | 378 | - | Very Quiet | Moderate | HAAD (48km) |
| Odo-Bulu Controlled Hunting Area | - | 378 | - | Very Quiet | Moderate | GOB (30km) |
| Shedem-Berbere Controlled Hunting Area | - | 378 | - | Very Quiet | Moderate | GOB (42km) |
46 species recorded in Bale Mountains & Southeast Highlands10 threatened
We love the stark beauty of the Bale Mountains. Standing on the Sanetti Plateau, the air is thin and crisp, carrying the scent of damp earth and wild herbs. The landscapes here feel ancient and raw, a world away from the savanna plains. We recommend taking time to simply absorb the immense silence, broken only by the wind and the distant call of a bird – it’s truly humbling.
Terrain & Altitude
The dominant terrain is a vast, undulating Afro-alpine plateau characterized by rolling moorlands and dramatic volcanic formations.
1,500-4,377m above sea level
Vegetation
Vegetation is primarily composed of heather, giant lobelias, and hardy grasses, transitioning to juniper and Hagenia forests at lower elevations.
Water Sources
Numerous clear, fast-flowing rivers and streams originate from the highlands, feeding into small alpine lakes and seasonal wetlands.
Unique Features
The Sanetti Plateau, one of the highest all-weather roads in Africa, offers unparalleled access to this unique Afro-alpine ecosystem.
While Addis Ababa Bole is the main gateway, we strongly advise flying into Goba if possible to save a long drive. The roads into Bale can be challenging, particularly after rain, so a sturdy 4WD is non-negotiable for exploring the park's interior. Don't underestimate the travel times; Ethiopia's roads demand patience.
Nearest Airports
Addis Ababa Bole International Airport (ADD)
400km / 6-7hr drive
Daily international and domestic connections
Goba Airport (Goba)
30km / 45min drive
Limited domestic flights from Addis Ababa; check schedules carefully
Bush Airstrips
Driving Routes
From Addis Ababa
The drive to Bale is scenic but can be slow. Paved roads for most of the way to Goba, then a mix of paved and gravel. We recommend breaking up the journey if possible, perhaps with a night in a town like Asella. A 4WD is advisable, especially during the rainy season.
From Haramaya University / Dire Dawa
An alternative route if arriving via Dire Dawa. This route takes you through agricultural landscapes before joining the main road towards Bale. Again, a 4WD is a wise choice for comfort and reliability.
Temperature
12.9°C
55°F
Rainfall
30.2 mm
Light rain
Humidity
57.9%
Sunshine
11 hrs/day
Data source: Open-Meteo Archive API
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