Day 1: Addis Ababa → Dinsho – Gateway to Bale

Begin your journey early from Addis Ababa through the Great Rift Valley, stopping at Lake Ziway to admire pelicans and water birds. Continue to Dinsho, headquarters of Bale Mountains National Park. Afternoon walk around the park to spot Mountain Nyala, Menelik’s Bushbuck, Warthogs, and endemic birds such as Abyssinian Catbird and Wattled Ibis.

Overnight: Dinsho Lodge or campsite (~3,100 m)

Day 2: Dinsho → Gaysay Grasslands → Rira Village

Morning walk across the Gaysay Grasslands to see Mountain Nyala and Warthogs. Drive to Rira Village near Harenna Forest, meet the local community, and learn traditional honey harvesting practices.

Overnight: Rira Community Lodge or camping (~3,500 m)

Day 3: Exploring the Harenna Forest

Explore the magical Harenna Forest under bamboo and moss-covered trees. Spot Bale Monkeys, giant forest hogs, and endemic birds. Experience wild coffee cultivation and enjoy freshly brewed coffee in the forest.

Overnight: Rira Community Lodge or camping

Day 4: Rira → Sanetti Plateau – Roof of Africa

Ascend to the Sanetti Plateau (4,000+ m), with misty alpine landscapes. Spot the Ethiopian Wolf and visit Tulu Dimtu, Ethiopia’s second-highest peak. Descend to Goba for the night.

Overnight: Wabe Shebelle Hotel or local lodge (~4,100 m)

Day 5: Excursion to Sof Omar Caves

Drive to the legendary Sof Omar Caves, one of Africa’s largest cave systems. Explore limestone chambers and natural cathedrals, learning about their cultural and spiritual significance. Return to Goba for the evening.

Overnight: Wabe Shebelle Hotel or local lodge

Day 6: Goba → Katcha → Angetu Forest

Travel to Katcha Village and explore Angetu Forest with rare birds and endemic plants. Visit a local village for a traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony.

Overnight: Camping or community lodge

Day 7: Angetu → Lake Langano

Descend from the Bale highlands to Lake Langano. Relax by the lake, enjoy birdwatching, or swim in the mineral-rich waters. Watch the sunset over the serene lake.

Overnight: Sabana Beach Resort or similar lakeside lodge

Day 8: Lake Langano → Addis Ababa

Enjoy a lakeside breakfast before returning to Addis Ababa. Stop at craft markets or fruit stalls along the way. Conclude the expedition with a farewell dinner and traditional Ethiopian cultural dance show.