Murulle Controlled Hunting Area

Murulle Controlled Hunting Area is a protected area in Ethiopia.

Murulle Controlled Hunting Area at a Glance

Location
South Omo & Southwest Lowlands, Ethiopia, East Africa
Coordinates
5.043281, 36.181170
IUCN Category
IV
Crowds
Very Quiet
Malaria Risk
Moderate
Best Time to Visit
October to March (dry season) for the Simien Mountains and Bale Mountains.

Getting to Murulle Controlled Hunting Area

Nearest airport: Shakiso Airport (SKR), 318 km away.

Nearest international airport: Bishoftu International Airport, 498 km away.

Big Five in Murulle Controlled Hunting Area

4 of the Big Five can be found here: White Rhinoceros, Black Rhinoceros, Leopard, Leopard Tortoise.

Weather & Climate in Murulle Controlled Hunting Area

The warmest temperatures in Murulle Controlled Hunting Area occur in February, averaging 32.0°C (up to 37.7°C). The coolest conditions are in April at 28.5°C.

The driest weather conditions are typically in December with average rainfall of 13.1mm. Average humidity: 40.5%.

Monthly Temperatures

  • January: 30.9°C (rainfall: 15.2mm)
  • February: 32.0°C (rainfall: 14.8mm)
  • March: 31.0°C (rainfall: 72.0mm)
  • April: 28.5°C (rainfall: 126.1mm)
  • May: 28.7°C (rainfall: 58.7mm)
  • June: 29.9°C (rainfall: 24.9mm)
  • July: 29.1°C (rainfall: 42.3mm)
  • August: 29.6°C (rainfall: 31.0mm)
  • September: 30.4°C (rainfall: 26.0mm)
  • October: 29.6°C (rainfall: 68.7mm)
  • November: 29.1°C (rainfall: 56.9mm)
  • December: 30.3°C (rainfall: 13.1mm)

Best Time to Visit Murulle Controlled Hunting Area

The best months to visit Murulle Controlled Hunting Area are January, February, December, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Great, temperature 30.86°C, rainfall 15.2mm, sunshine 10.9 hrs, humidity 37.7%
  • February: Great, temperature 31.96°C, rainfall 14.8mm, sunshine 11 hrs, humidity 35.4%
  • March: Great, temperature 30.97°C, rainfall 72mm, sunshine 10.4 hrs, humidity 46.6%
  • April: Great, temperature 28.49°C, rainfall 126.1mm, sunshine 9.6 hrs, humidity 62.8%
  • May: Great, temperature 28.72°C, rainfall 58.7mm, sunshine 10.4 hrs, humidity 58.3%
  • June: Great, temperature 29.94°C, rainfall 24.9mm, sunshine 10.7 hrs, humidity 43.9%
  • July: Great, temperature 29.08°C, rainfall 42.3mm, sunshine 9.6 hrs, humidity 46.5%
  • August: Great, temperature 29.62°C, rainfall 31mm, sunshine 10.2 hrs, humidity 44%
  • September: Great, temperature 30.37°C, rainfall 26mm, sunshine 10.4 hrs, humidity 42.9%
  • October: Great, temperature 29.58°C, rainfall 68.7mm, sunshine 10.3 hrs, humidity 51.3%
  • November: Great, temperature 29.07°C, rainfall 56.9mm, sunshine 10.7 hrs, humidity 53.7%
  • December: Great, temperature 30.3°C, rainfall 13.1mm, sunshine 10.9 hrs, humidity 40.5%

Wildlife in Murulle Controlled Hunting Area

Home to 71 recorded species including 25 iconic birds, 18 waterbirds, 13 birds of prey, 5 tropical birds, 3 big five, 2 big herbivores.

Recommended Packing List for Murulle Controlled Hunting Area

Based on average temperature of 29.9°C, typical conditions, humidity 47%.

  • Lightweight breathable clothing - warm 30°C weather calls for light fabrics
  • Binoculars - essential for every game drive
  • Sun hat & sunscreen - protection from the African sun
  • Sturdy walking shoes - for bush walks and uneven terrain
  • Neutral-coloured clothing - khaki, olive, and tan blend with the bush
  • Insect repellent - essential in most safari regions
  • First aid kit - basic medical supplies for remote areas
  • Torch / headlamp - useful for evenings at camp
  • Camera with telephoto lens - capture your safari memories

Notable Species

Similar Parks in South Omo & Southwest Lowlands

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Ethiopia

Travel advisory for Ethiopia

Murulle Controlled Hunting Area FAQs

What kind of wildlife can I expect to see in Murulle, given it's a 'Controlled Hunting Area'?

Murulle, despite its hunting designation, offers excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing, particularly for species adapted to its Ethiopian savanna and bushland habitats. You can expect to encounter various antelope species like Lesser Kudu, Grant's Gazelle, and Swayne's Hartebeest, along with predators such as hyenas and leopards. Birdwatching is also rewarding, with numerous endemic and migratory species present.

What is the best time of year to visit Murulle Controlled Hunting Area for wildlife viewing and what are the conditions like?

The optimal time to visit Murulle for wildlife viewing is during the dry season, typically from October to March. During these months, water sources are scarce, concentrating animals around remaining pools and making them easier to spot. The weather is generally clear and warm, though nights can be cool.

How does the 'Controlled Hunting Area' designation impact a non-hunting safari experience in Murulle?

For non-hunting visitors, the 'Controlled Hunting Area' designation means a highly exclusive and uncrowded safari experience, as visitor numbers are strictly managed. While hunting activities occur in designated zones, non-hunting safaris focus on wildlife photography and observation, often with dedicated guides who understand animal movements and behavior. This management helps maintain healthy wildlife populations, benefiting all visitors.

What are the typical accommodation options and logistical considerations for visiting Murulle, given its low crowding level?

Due to its very low crowding level, Murulle offers a more rustic and intimate safari experience, with accommodation primarily consisting of basic tented camps or simple lodges. It's crucial to arrange your visit through a specialized tour operator who can handle permits, transportation (often 4x4 vehicles), and provide experienced guides, as independent travel can be challenging.

Are there any unique cultural or natural attractions near Murulle Controlled Hunting Area that I should consider?

While Murulle itself is focused on wildlife, its location in Ethiopia's Omo Valley region places it near areas rich in unique cultural experiences. You might consider combining your safari with visits to indigenous communities like the Mursi or Hamer people, known for their distinct traditions and adornments, offering a profound insight into local life.

Recommended Books

  • Stuarts' Field Guide to National Parks & Game Reserves of East Africa by Chris & Mathilde Stuart - Park-by-park guide with maps, species lists, and practical information. Perfect for planning which parks to visit and what to expect.
  • The Handbook of Bird Photography by Markus Varesvuo, Jari Peltomäki & Bence Máté - Excellent for birding photographers on safari - covers technique, equipment, fieldcraft, and post-processing with stunning example images.
  • Birds of East Africa by Terry Stevenson & John Fanshawe - Covers Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, and Burundi - 1,388 species illustrated with range maps. The essential birding companion for East African safaris.
  • Photographing Wildlife in Africa by Paolo Torchio - Practical guide specifically for African safari photography - camera settings, lens choices, composition techniques, and how to make the most of game drives.
  • Lonely Planet East Africa by Lonely Planet - Comprehensive travel guide covering Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and beyond. Practical information on visas, transport, accommodation, and detailed park guides.
  • Fodor's The Complete Guide to African Safaris by Fodor's Travel - Country-by-country planning guide with lodge reviews, practical logistics, packing lists, and insider tips. Often cited as the best all-in-one safari planning resource.
  • Lonely Planet Ethiopia & Djibouti by Lonely Planet - Covers the Simien Mountains, Bale Mountains, Omo Valley, and the Danakil Depression. Essential reading for Ethiopia's unique wildlife and cultural experiences.
  • National Geographic Kids: Safari by National Geographic - Age-appropriate wildlife facts with stunning photographs. Great for getting children excited about the animals they'll see on safari.
  • The Last Elephants by Don Pinnock & Colin Bell - Conservation-focused book combining beautiful photography with urgent storytelling about the threats facing Africa's elephant populations.
  • Here Is the African Savanna by Madeleine Dunphy - Beautifully illustrated picture book about the savanna ecosystem. Teaches children about the interconnected web of life on an African plain.
  • Bradt Guide: Ethiopia by Philip Briggs - Comprehensive guide covering Simien and Bale Mountains trekking, the historic northern circuit, Omo Valley, and Ethiopia's unique endemic wildlife including gelada baboons and Ethiopian wolves.
  • Safari: A Photographic Journey by Art Wolfe - Large-format coffee-table book from one of the world's most celebrated nature photographers. Stunning images from across the African continent.
  • The Kingdon Field Guide to African Mammals by Jonathan Kingdon - The definitive mammal field guide for Africa covering over 1,150 species with detailed illustrations. Considered the gold standard for safari-goers and researchers alike.
  • The Behavior Guide to African Mammals by Richard Despard Estes - Goes beyond identification to explain why animals behave as they do. Essential reading for safari-goers who want to understand the wildlife they observe.
  • A Field Guide to the Reptiles of East Africa by Stephen Spawls, Kim Howell, Harald Hinkel & Michele Menegon - Comprehensive coverage of snakes, lizards, turtles, and crocodilians found across East Africa. A niche but appreciated guide for the thorough naturalist.
  • Remembering Lions by Various Photographers - Part of the acclaimed Remembering Wildlife conservation book series. Features contributions from world-class wildlife photographers, with proceeds supporting lion conservation.
  • African Animals ABC by Stella Blackstone & Petr Horacek - Simple alphabet book with bold, colourful animal illustrations. Perfect for toddlers and young children preparing for their first safari. Ages 2–5.
  • Beat About the Bush: Mammals by Trevor Carnaby - The single best book for understanding animal behaviour on safari. Explains why animals do what they do - feeding, mating, territory, predator-prey dynamics. Makes every game drive infinitely more rewarding.
  • Wildlife of East Africa (Princeton Pocket Guide) by Martin B. Withers & David Hosking - Compact pocket guide covering mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and insects of Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and Rwanda. 500+ colour photographs. The best quick-reference guide to carry on game drives.
  • Africa's Top Wildlife Countries by Mark W. Nolting - The most respected safari planning book in print. Detailed country-by-country guide covering parks, lodges, best times to visit, and what wildlife to expect. Updated regularly. The first book every safari planner should read.
  • The Safari Companion: A Guide to Watching African Mammals by Richard D. Estes - Part field guide, part planning tool. Explains mammal behaviour in a way that transforms game drives. Covers tracks, signs, social structures, and habitat preferences. A must-pack for serious safari-goers.
  • The Shadow of the Sun by Ryszard Kapuscinski - Widely considered the greatest book ever written about Africa. Kapuscinski spent 40 years reporting from across the continent. Vivid, poetic, and deeply insightful. Essential pre-safari reading for understanding the continent.
  • Elephant Company by Vicki Constantine Croke - The extraordinary true story of James Howard Williams and the elephants who helped him build bridges, extract teak, and ultimately rescue refugees across the Burmese jungle during WWII. Gripping and moving.
  • When the Last Lion Roars by Sara Evans - An urgent, accessible account of the African lion's decline from 200,000 to under 20,000 in a century. Covers the science, politics, and human stories behind lion conservation. Eye-opening pre-safari reading.
  • Ivory, Horn and Blood by Ronald Orenstein - The definitive book on the poaching crisis devastating African elephants and rhinos. Covers the criminal networks, the rangers fighting back, and what travellers can do. Important context for any safari visitor.
  • Last Chance to See by Douglas Adams & Mark Carwardine - Witty and heartbreaking tour of endangered species by the Hitchhiker's Guide author. Combines humour with urgent conservation messaging.
  • Owen and Mzee by Isabella Hatkoff, Craig Hatkoff & Paula Kahumbu - True story of an orphaned hippo befriending a 130-year-old tortoise in Kenya. A heartwarming tale of unlikely friendship that teaches empathy.
  • Remembering Elephants by Various Photographers - Stunning coffee-table book from the Remembering Wildlife series. All proceeds go to elephant conservation - beautiful photography with a purpose.
  • Whatever You Do, Don't Run by Peter Allison - Hilarious memoir from a Botswana safari guide - true stories from the bush that will have you laughing out loud. A favourite among safari enthusiasts.
  • Poached by Rachel Love Nuwer - Gripping investigation into the illegal wildlife trade - from African poaching networks to Asian markets. Essential reading for understanding the threats to safari wildlife.
  • Safari Nation by Jacob S. T. Dlamini - Fascinating history of South Africa's national parks and their complex colonial legacy. Academic but accessible - changes how you think about safari tourism.
  • Safari: A Photicular Book by Dan Kainen & Carol Kaufmann - Mesmerising book with moving photographic images of African animals. Kids and adults love the magical moving pictures - perfect pre-trip gift.