Central Rift Valley & Awash, Ethiopia
    Very Quiet
    Malaria: Low

    Safari in Melka Sadi Controlled Hunting Area

    Melka Sadi Controlled Hunting Area is a protected area in Ethiopia.

    Best timeOctober to March (dry season) for the Simien Mountains and Bale Mountains.
    Species
    68
    Big Five
    0/5
    Recommended stay
    1-2 days

    Melka Sadi Controlled Hunting Area Map

    Park location

    Recent sightings at Melka Sadi Controlled Hunting Area

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    68 species recorded in Melka Sadi Controlled Hunting Area8 threatened

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    Game drives, guided tours, and unique experiences in Melka Sadi 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

    Melka Sadi offers a raw, untamed Ethiopian wilderness experience, far from the usual tourist trails. We love the feeling of true remoteness here, where encounters with wildlife feel genuinely wild and unscripted. The sheer scale of the landscape is breathtaking, and the opportunity to explore such a protected area is a privilege.

    Gate Times

    Melka Sadi is a controlled hunting area, so access is strictly managed. We recommend contacting the Ethiopian Wildlife Conservation Authority or your tour operator well in advance to arrange permits and confirm entry times. Generally, gates open at sunrise and close at sunset, but this can vary. Be prepared for potential delays at entry points.

    Tipping

    Tipping is customary and appreciated. For guides, we suggest around 10-15% of the tour cost, or a daily amount of $20-30 USD per person. Camp staff can be tipped collectively, perhaps $5-10 USD per guest per day. Rangers on patrols may also receive a small gratuity if their service is exceptional, but this is less common and should be discreet.

    Dress Code

    We advise neutral, earthy tones for game drives and walks to blend in with the environment. Layers are key. Think breathable long-sleeved shirts and trousers for sun and insect protection, a fleece or warm jacket for cool mornings and evenings, and comfortable walking shoes. Avoid bright colours and camouflage patterns.

    Photography

    Photography is generally permitted, but always ask your guide before photographing people, especially in local communities. Drones are typically not allowed without special permits, which are difficult to obtain. We love capturing the unique landscapes and endemic wildlife. Early morning and late afternoon light, the golden hours, offer the most dramatic and beautiful shots.

    Etiquette

    Maintain a low noise level at all times to avoid disturbing wildlife. Always stay within your vehicle or designated walking areas unless instructed otherwise by your guide. Never feed or approach wild animals. In camp, respect the quiet hours and the privacy of other guests.

    What to Bring

    High SPF sunscreen
    Insect repellent with DEET
    Wide-brimmed hat
    Binoculars (8x42 or 10x42 recommended)
    Reusable water bottle
    Headlamp or flashlight
    Personal first-aid kit
    Camera with zoom lens
    Lightweight rain jacket
    Comfortable walking shoes
    Scarf or bandana
    Small backpack for day trips

    Temperature

    24.51°C

    76°F · Range: 18.49–31.02°C

    Rainfall

    19.8 mm

    Dry season · 3.4 rainy days

    Humidity

    47.5%

    Sunshine

    10.6 hrs/day

    Wind Speed

    4.95 m/s

    17.8 km/h

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

    Melka Sadi Controlled Hunting Area Reviews