Arrive in Addis Ababa and meet your guide at the airport before embarking on a half-day city tour. Visit the National Museum of Ethiopia to see the famous fossil Lucy and the Ethnological Museum for an introduction to Ethiopia's diverse cultures. Enjoy panoramic views of the city from Mount Entoto, and if time allows, explore the Mercato, one of Africa's largest open-air markets. The city's vibrant atmosphere and rich history provide a great start to your Ethiopian adventure. Overnight in Addis Ababa, where you can relax and prepare for the next day's journey.
After an early breakfast, embark on a scenic 5-6 hour drive south to Chebera Churchura National Park, a hidden gem known for its diverse ecosystems. The park offers a mix of woodlands, savannahs, and riverine forests, making it ideal for wildlife photography and exploration. Upon arrival, settle into your lodge or campsite and enjoy a late afternoon game drive, where you might spot elephants, buffaloes, and various antelope species. The area is rich in birdlife as well, with African Fish Eagles and Yellow-billed Storks often seen around water sources. Enjoy your evening surrounded by the sounds of nature.
Spend the day at Lake Bulo, one of the most prominent wildlife viewing spots in Chebera Churchura National Park. This freshwater lake is surrounded by lush vegetation and attracts a variety of wildlife, including hippopotamuses, waterbucks, and abundant bird species such as Pied Kingfishers and African Spoonbills. The area also offers excellent opportunities for birdwatching, with several raptors and migratory species found near the water. Capture stunning wildlife shots as animals come to drink and interact with the environment. After an exciting day of wildlife viewing, return to your lodge for dinner and overnight.
In the morning, drive to Shoshuma Campsite, a peaceful and remote part of Chebera Churchura National Park, known for its rugged terrain and rich wildlife. Explore the area’s diverse landscapes, which are home to Gelada baboons, kudus, and waterbucks, as well as a range of bird species, including the Brown Snake Eagle and Red-billed Hornbill. The Shoshuma region offers an excellent opportunity for wildlife photography, with dramatic backgrounds of cliffs and grasslands. In the afternoon, enjoy a guided walk or short safari around the campsite, further immersing yourself in the park's natural beauty. Overnight at the Shoshuma Campsite, surrounded by nature.
After breakfast, depart for Maze National Park, located about 3-4 hours away, known for its diverse ecosystems and abundant wildlife. Upon arrival, explore the park's riverine forests and open savannahs, where you can spot species such as buffaloes, baboons, antelopes, and Bale monkeys. Maze is also a fantastic destination for birdwatchers, with sightings of Crowned Eagles, African Green Pigeons, and various weavers. The park's scenic views and dense vegetation provide the perfect backdrop for capturing wildlife in action. Return to your lodge for an evening of relaxation after a fulfilling day of exploration.
Today, head to the Swafnes Hartbeest area within Maze National Park, where large herds of these unique antelopes graze in the open grasslands. The area is rich with other species, including zebras, waterbucks, and warthogs, providing ample opportunities for capturing wildlife in their natural habitat. Swafnes Hartbeests, known for their striking appearance, make for fantastic photographic subjects. The open landscapes also offer a great chance to photograph the park’s stunning vistas, with wide plains and distant hills in the background. Spend the day photographing both wildlife and the beautiful scenery before returning to your accommodation for the night.
After breakfast, begin your return journey to Butajira, a town located in the Southern Nations, Nationalities, and Peoples' Region. The drive takes approximately 5-6 hours and offers scenic views of the countryside, with opportunities to stop and photograph rural life. Once in Butajira, visit the nearby Tiya archaeological site, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its ancient stelae and burial sites. The town also offers a glimpse into Ethiopia’s rich cultural heritage, with local markets and traditional lifestyles.Overnight in Butajira, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere before heading back to Addis Ababa the next day.
After breakfast, you will drive back to Addis Ababa, which takes about 2-3 hours. Once in the city, you can visit any last-minute sights or shops, such as the bustling Mercato or enjoy a coffee at one of the local cafés. If time allows, take in views of Addis from Sheraton Addis or explore local galleries before your departure. Your guide will transfer you to the airport for your flight back home, bringing your 8-day tour of Ethiopia’s wildlife and culture to a close.



















