Awash National Park & Harar-Babile Sanctuary – 5 Days
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Embark on an unforgettable adventure through Ethiopia’s diverse landscapes and rich wildlife with this combined tour of Awash National Park and Harar-Babile Sanctuary. This journey blends scenic beauty, wildlife encounters, cultural experiences, and birdwatching opportunities.
From the open savannahs of Awash National Park to the ancient walled city of Harar, and the striking natural formations of Babile Elephant Sanctuary, this tour offers a diverse and memorable experience. Discover Ethiopia’s wildlife, history, and vibrant culture, all in one extraordinary journey.
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Tour Plan
After breakfast at your hotel, explore Ethiopia’s lively capital. Highlights include:
• Ethnographic Museum – housed in Emperor Haile Selassie’s former palace, showcasing Ethiopia’s rich cultural history.
• Holy Trinity Cathedral – the final resting place of Emperor Haile Selassie and Empress Menen Asfaw.
• Mercato Market – one of Africa’s largest outdoor markets, bustling with colors, scents, and local life.
After breakfast, drive to Awash National Park, located in the Great Rift Valley. Known for its volcanic landscapes, acacia woodlands, and the beautiful Awash River and Falls, the park is home to:
• Oryx, gazelles, baboons, and crocodiles
• A rich variety of birds perfect for birdwatching
Enjoy scenic landscapes and a thrilling game drive as you explore this accessible and diverse park.
Travel to the historic walled city of Harar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site often called the “City of Saints.” Highlights include:
• Over 80 mosques and 100 shrines
• Narrow alleyways and vibrant markets
• Evening hyena feeding ritual, a unique local tradition
Harar has been a key trade hub for centuries, blending Islamic culture, ancient architecture, and local traditions. Overnight in Harar.
Spend a full day exploring the treasures of Harar’s old walled city, Jugol, including:
• Traditional Harari houses and local markets
• House of Arthur Rimbaud – historic home of the French poet
• Palace of Prince Mekonnen and House of Emperor Haile Selassie
• Harari Cultural Center and Tomb of Emir Nur
Discover the vibrant culture and colorful traditions of the Harari people in one of Ethiopia’s most historically rich cities.
Visit Babile Elephant Sanctuary, known for its population of African elephants adapted to dry environments. Explore:
• Semi-arid savanna, bushland, and rocky hills
• Local wildlife and unique geological formations like the Valley of Marvels
Return to Harar, proceed to Dire Dawa, and take an evening flight back to Addis Ababa. Conclude your journey with a farewell dinner at a traditional Ethiopian restaurant, enjoying authentic cuisine, music, and dance. Transfer to the airport afterward for your departure.