Day 1: Drive from Addis Ababa to Dinsho, Arrival in Bale Mountains Morning Departure: Begin your journey with a scenic drive from Addis Ababa to Dinsho, approximately 8 hours. Route Highlights: Enjoy breathtaking landscapes, traditional villages, and the lush Ethiopian highlands along the way.
- Arrival in Dinsho: Welcome by your local guide upon arrival.
- Exploration: Visit the park headquarters to learn about the unique ecosystem.
- Wildlife Spotting: Look for endemic species such as:
- Mammals: Menilik’s Buchbuck, Mountain Nyala, Warthog, Reedbuck, Gray Duikers, and Baboons.
- Birds: Black-headed Siskin, Wattled Ibis, Abyssinian Catbird.
- Evening Activity: Take a short hike to acclimate and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
- Overnight: Comfortable stay at Dinsho Campsite (3100 masl).
Day 2: Trek from Dinsho to Sodota Campsite
- Morning: Early breakfast followed by an 18 km trek.
- Scenic Route: Journey through Web Valley, culminating at Fincha Habera waterfall, where the Web and Wolla rivers converge.
- Wildlife Encounters: Spot the elusive Ethiopian Wolf, along with raptors and endemic birds like the Blue Winged Goose.
- Coffee Break: Relax with local coffee/tea upon reaching the campsite.
- Overnight: Cozy Sodota Campsite (3500 masl).
Day 3: Trekking to Wasema
- Trail Overview: Hike approximately 6-7 hours through stunning landscapes.
- Highlights: Traverse Mararo Valley, home to nesting Lammergeyer and Verraux Eagles. Keep an eye out for Ethiopian Wolves and diverse birdlife.
- Cultural Experience: Interact with local communities along the route.
- Overnight: Scenic Wasema Campsite (3900 masl).
Day 4: Journey to Sanneti Plateau
- Morning Trek: Depart from Wasema, descending into the picturesque Worgona Valley.
- Wildlife Watching: Look for Falcons, raptors, and the Ethiopian Wolf.
- Afro-Alpine Beauty: Experience the breathtaking Moorland, dotted with lakes and wildflowers. Trekking duration is 7-8 hours.
- Evening Relaxation: Enjoy a warm bonfire and stargazing.
- Overnight: Sanneti Campsite (4100 masl).
Day 5: Drive to Harenna Forest
- Departure: After breakfast, transfer to Harenna Forest, Ethiopia’s second tropical rainforest.
- Wildlife Sightings: Chance to observe the rare Ethiopian Wolf, Abyssinian Hare, and various water birds, including the Wattled Crane.
- Nature Hike: Explore the lush forest, trek to a cascading waterfall, and stroll along the Bamboo Trail. Look for the endemic Bale Monkey.
- Cultural Insight: Learn about local flora and fauna from your guide.
- Overnight: Comfortable hotel stay in Robe.
Day 6: Travel to Moyale
- Morning Departure: After breakfast, start your drive to Moyale, located on the Ethiopia-Kenya border.
- Journey Details: The drive will take approximately 6-7 hours, passing through diverse landscapes and local communities.
- Cultural Experience: Learn about the cultures of the various ethnic groups you encounter along the way.
- Arrival in Moyale: Check into your accommodation and relax after your journey.
- Evening Exploration: Optional visit to local markets and cultural sites.
Notes:
Packing Essentials: Bring sturdy hiking boots, layered clothing, a reusable water bottle, and a camera for capturing memories
✅ Included Services
- 🚗 4W Drive Vehicle: with driver and fuel included
- 🎟️ All Entrance Fees: access to all attractions mentioned in the itinerary
- 💧 Bottled Water: stay hydrated during your tours
- ☕ Cultural Coffee: experience traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremonies
- 🗣️ English Speaking Guides: expert guidance throughout your journey
- 🍽️ All meals Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner: enjoy delicious meals at selected locations
- 🏨 Hotel Accommodation: any unlisted or personal stays
- 👨🏫 Professional Guide Service: personalized assistance and local insights
📸 Camera & Video Charges: personal photography or filming with special fees
❌ Excluded Services
- 🍷 Alcoholic Drinks: not included in the package
- ✈️ Any Flight: international or extra flights are excluded
- 🛡️ Personal Insurance: travel or medical insurance not included
- 💰 Personal Tips & Gratitude: for guides, drivers, or staff
- 🛍️ Shopping Items: souvenirs or personal purchases
📝 SMT Tour – Cancellation Policy
🙋♂️ Cancellation by You (the Traveler)
- 📅 More than 30 days before the tour: Full refund minus a 10% administrative fee.
- 📅 15–30 days before the tour: 50% refund of the total booking amount.
- 📅 Less than 15 days before the tour: No refund.
🏛️ Cancellation by SMT Tour
In rare cases, if SMT Tour must cancel a tour, you will receive a full refund. Whenever possible, we will also offer alternative dates or similar tour options.
🔄 Changes to Your Booking
Changes such as dates or number of travelers are subject to availability and may incur additional charges. Please contact us as early as possible to make adjustments.
🌪️ Force Majeure
SMT Tour is not responsible for cancellations due to events beyond our control, including natural disasters, political unrest, or pandemics. We will assist with rescheduling or providing credit for future tours.
💳 Refund Process
Refunds are processed to the original payment method within 7–14 business days after cancellation confirmation.
💡 Travel Tip
We recommend purchasing travel insurance to cover unexpected situations that may affect your travel plans.