After breakfast, transfer to Bole International Airport for your morning flight to Gambella, located in Ethiopia’s far western lowlands near the South Sudanese border. Upon arrival, meet your local birding guide and drive to your lodge near Gambella National Park. After check-in and lunch, enjoy an afternoon birding walk around the Baro River and nearby wetlands. Expect to spot African Fish Eagle, White-throated Bee-eater, Abyssinian Roller, and African Jacana. The evening offers a chance to relax by the riverside, watching the sunset while hippos grunt in the distance.

Start early with a guided drive into the heart of Gambella National Park, a vast and biodiverse sanctuary known for its wetlands, grasslands, and floodplains. Birders can encounter species rarely seen elsewhere in Ethiopia, including Shoebill Stork, Black Crowned Crane, Saddle-billed Stork, Fulvous Whistling Duck, and Great White Pelican. The park also hosts large mammals such as elephants, buffalo, and kob antelopes, creating a safari-like atmosphere. Enjoy a picnic lunch under acacia shade and continue birding along the Baro River edges before returning to your lodge for dinner.

After breakfast, head toward the Alwero River wetlands, another excellent birding hotspot rich in aquatic and riparian species. Watch for Malachite Kingfisher, Goliath Heron, Purple Swamphen, White-backed Duck, and flocks of African Openbill Storks. In the afternoon, visit nearby Nuer villages to observe the traditional culture of the local communities who live harmoniously with nature. The area’s open landscapes also provide opportunities to see raptors such as Bateleur Eagle and Brown Snake Eagle. Return to your lodge for a relaxed evening by the campfire.

Dedicate the day to exploring the Gambella forest zone and Baro floodplain, where tropical woodland species abound. Here you may find White-browed Robin-chat, Green Turaco, Double-toothed Barbet, and Grey-headed Kingfisher. The forest edges are also excellent for spotting Ross’s Turaco and Broad-billed Roller. Enjoy a late afternoon birding session at the floodplain where thousands of egrets, herons, and ibises gather before sunset. This day captures the incredible diversity of Gambella’s habitats, from riverine forests to open wetlands.

Rise early for a short morning birding walk around the lodge gardens and riverbanks to catch any missed species. It’s a great time to see African Paradise Flycatcher, Village Weaver, and Senegal Coucal in the warm morning light. After breakfast, transfer to Gambella Airport for your return flight to Addis Ababa. Upon arrival, you may spend the afternoon shopping for souvenirs or relaxing at a local café before your evening departure. This marks the end of your unforgettable 5-day birdwatching adventure in the wild lowlands of Gambella.