10 safari lodges
    Bale Mountains & Southeast Highlands, Ethiopia
    Quiet
    Malaria: Moderate

    Safari in 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.

    Best timeOctober to March (dry season) for the Simien Mountains and Bale Mountains.
    Species
    45
    Big Five
    0/5
    Lodges
    10
    Area
    2,471 km²
    Recommended stay
    2-3 days
    Est.
    1969
    UNESCO World Heritage Sitesource

    Bale Mountains National Park Map

    Park location and safari lodges

    Recent sightings at Bale Mountains National Park

    Sign in to report

    45 species recorded in Bale Mountains National Park10 threatened

    Book Safari Experiences in Bale Mountains National Park

    Game drives, guided tours, and unique experiences in Bale Mountains 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

    Bale Mountains National Park offers an unparalleled journey into Ethiopia's unique Afro-alpine ecosystem, where the air is crisp and the landscapes are breathtakingly vast. We love the chance to spot the rare Ethiopian wolf and the majestic mountain nyala, making it a truly special and unforgettable high-altitude safari experience.

    Gate Times

    The park gates typically open at 6:00 AM and close at 6:00 PM daily. We strongly recommend arranging your permits and guide through a reputable tour operator or directly with the park headquarters in Dinsho well in advance, especially during the drier seasons, to ensure smooth entry. Permits are mandatory and should be secured before commencing your activities within the park.

    Tipping

    Tipping is customary and a meaningful way to show appreciation for excellent service. For your main guide, we suggest around 20-30 USD per day. For camp staff, a communal tip of 5-10 USD per guest per day is appropriate. Rangers accompanying you on walks or drives can be tipped 5-10 USD per day. Always tip in local currency (Ethiopian Birr) or clean USD notes, and present it discreetly.

    Dress Code

    Given the high altitude and variable weather, layering is absolutely essential. Mornings and evenings are often very cold, sometimes dropping below freezing, while midday can be warm and sunny. We recommend breathable, moisture-wicking base layers, a warm fleece or down jacket, and a waterproof-windproof outer shell. Neutral colours like greens, browns, and greys are best for wildlife viewing. Comfortable, broken-in hiking boots are a must for walks, and a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses are vital for sun protection.

    Photography

    Bale offers truly unique photographic opportunities, particularly for its endemic species and dramatic landscapes. We advise against using flash photography, especially at night or when close to wildlife, as it can disturb animals. Drones are generally prohibited within national parks in Ethiopia without specific, hard-to-obtain permits; we recommend leaving them at home. For stunning shots, focus on the unique light of the Afro-alpine environment, especially at dawn and dusk. A good telephoto lens is indispensable for capturing the elusive Ethiopian wolf and other shy species.

    Etiquette

    Respect for wildlife and the environment is paramount. Always remain in your vehicle unless instructed otherwise by your guide, and maintain a respectful distance from animals. Keep noise levels low to avoid disturbing wildlife and other visitors. In camp, be mindful of others and keep conversations quiet, especially in communal areas. We encourage you to follow your guide's instructions at all times; they are there to ensure your safety and the well-being of the park.

    What to Bring

    Warm hat and gloves
    Waterproof and windproof jacket
    Warm fleece or down jacket
    Comfortable, sturdy hiking boots
    Sunscreen and lip balm with high SPF
    Wide-brimmed hat
    Binoculars
    Camera with telephoto lens and spare batteries
    Reusable water bottle
    Small backpack for day trips
    Personal first-aid kit, including altitude sickness medication
    Power bank for electronics

    Packing list not yet available for Bale Mountains National Park - weather data needed

    Monthly weather conditions not yet available for Bale Mountains National Park

    Bale Mountains National Park Reviews