Bale Mountains & Southeast Highlands, Ethiopia
    Very Quiet
    Malaria: Moderate

    Safari in Hurufa Soma Controlled Hunting Area

    Hurufa Soma Controlled Hunting Area is a protected area in Ethiopia.

    Best timeOctober to March (dry season) for the Simien Mountains and Bale Mountains.
    Species
    16
    Big Five
    0/5
    Recommended stay
    1-2 days

    Hurufa Soma Controlled Hunting Area Map

    Park location

    Recent sightings at Hurufa Soma Controlled Hunting Area

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    16 species recorded in Hurufa Soma Controlled Hunting Area6 threatened

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    Try searching nearby lodges on Go2Africa or SafariBookings.

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    Game drives, guided tours, and unique experiences in Hurufa Soma Controlled Hunting Area

    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

    Hurufa Soma offers a raw and authentic Ethiopian safari experience, far from the crowds. We love the feeling of true wilderness here, where the landscapes are as dramatic as the wildlife encounters. The sunsets are sensational, painting the sky in hues you won't forget.

    Gate Times

    Access to Hurufa Soma Controlled Hunting Area is typically managed through pre-arranged permits, often booked in conjunction with your safari operator. We recommend confirming exact gate opening and closing times with your lodge or guide, as these can vary. Generally, expect gates to open around sunrise and close at sunset. No specific seasonal variations are widely published, but always verify.

    Tipping

    Tipping is customary and appreciated in Ethiopia. For guides, we suggest around 10-15 USD per person per day. Camp staff can be tipped collectively, with around 5-10 USD per person per day being a good benchmark. Rangers, if you have a dedicated one, might receive a similar amount to guides. It's best to present tips discreetly at the end of your stay, often through the lodge management.

    Dress Code

    We advise neutral, earth-toned clothing for game drives and walks to blend in with the environment. Think khaki, olive green, and brown. Layers are essential as mornings and evenings can be cool, especially during the dry season from October to March. Comfortable walking shoes are a must, and a light jacket or fleece is recommended. Avoid bright colours and white.

    Photography

    Photography is generally permitted, but always ask your guide before photographing people, especially in local communities. Drones are usually prohibited without special permits, so check with your operator well in advance if you intend to bring one. The light in Ethiopia can be dramatic, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. We love capturing the unique endemic wildlife against the rugged landscapes.

    Etiquette

    Maintain low noise levels on game drives and walks to avoid disturbing wildlife. Always stay within your vehicle or designated areas unless instructed otherwise by your guide. Never feed animals. In camp, respect the quiet hours and be mindful of other guests. We find that patience and observation yield the best wildlife encounters.

    What to Bring

    High SPF sunscreen
    Insect repellent with DEET
    Wide-brimmed hat
    Binoculars (8x42 or 10x42 recommended)
    Reusable water bottle
    Camera with zoom lens
    Comfortable walking boots
    Lightweight, breathable clothing
    Warm fleece or jacket
    Personal first-aid kit
    Headlamp or flashlight
    Power bank for electronics

    Temperature

    16.41°C

    62°F · Range: 11.04–22°C

    Rainfall

    49 mm

    Light rain · 8 rainy days

    Humidity

    61.1%

    Sunshine

    11 hrs/day

    Wind Speed

    3.09 m/s

    11.1 km/h

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

    Hurufa Soma Controlled Hunting Area Reviews