---------------------------------
Address
Phone: +251 988 111 222
Need help or have a question?
Contact us at: info@driveethiopia.com
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
4 Days Bale Mountains Tour
Africa's rarest carnivore on the roof of Ethiopia
About The Tour
4 Days Bale Mountains Tour: Ethiopian Wolves and the Sanetti Plateau
Africa’s rarest carnivore on the roof of Ethiopia
Overview
Bale Mountains National Park is the best place in the world to see the Ethiopian wolf, Africa’s rarest carnivore. On the high Sanetti Plateau, at around 4,000 metres, the wolves hunt giant mole rats in open moorland, and sightings are very likely. Below the plateau, the Harenna forest is one of the largest cloud forests in Ethiopia.
This 4 day private tour drives from Addis Ababa through the Rift Valley and the Arsi highlands, with stops for mountain nyala, endemic birds and Bale monkeys. It suits wildlife lovers, birders and photographers.
Duration
4 Days (3 Nights)
Suggested Accommodations
- Dinsho or Goba: Bale Park Lodge or Wabe Shebelle Hotel
- Harenna forest: Bale Mountain Lodge
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Addis Ababa to Dinsho
Drive south east from Addis Ababa through the Rift Valley and the Arsi highlands (about 7 hours with stops). In the afternoon walk in the Gaysay grassland near Dinsho, the best place to see mountain nyala and Menelik’s bushbuck. Overnight near Dinsho.
Day 2: Sanetti Plateau and Ethiopian Wolves
Early drive up to the Sanetti Plateau, the highest all weather road in Africa. Spend the morning looking for Ethiopian wolves, plus giant mole rats, Rouget’s rail and the blue winged goose. Visit Tullu Dimtu, Ethiopia’s second highest peak, then descend into the Harenna forest. Overnight at Bale Mountain Lodge.
Day 3: Harenna Forest
Guided walks in the Harenna forest looking for Bale monkeys, giant forest hogs and forest birds. Optional afternoon drive back up to Sanetti for more wolf watching in the evening light. Overnight at Bale Mountain Lodge.
Day 4: Return to Addis Ababa
Drive back to Addis Ababa, with a stop at a Rift Valley lake if time allows. Arrive in the evening. If you prefer, fly from Robe airport to Addis Ababa instead.
Travel Advice
Current travel advice (October 2026): the US government advises against travel to most of Oromia, but makes an exception for Bale Mountains National Park. The road from Addis Ababa passes through the Arsi zones, which are on its do not travel list, so we can fly you to Robe airport instead and drive only the short distance into the park. Check your own government’s latest advice and your travel insurance before you book.
Price and Booking
Price: on request. This tour runs as a private trip on any date you choose. The price depends on group size, hotel level and season, so we quote each trip individually. Tell us your dates and number of travellers and we reply within 2 hours, with a full itinerary and quote within 24 hours.
Get a free quote or message us on WhatsApp +251 988 111 222.
What Is Included
- Private air conditioned vehicle (4×4 where needed) with fuel and an experienced driver
- English speaking tour guide throughout (other languages on request)
- Hotels as listed, twin or double room with breakfast
- All entrance fees and local guide fees at the sites in the itinerary
- Airport and hotel transfers
- Bottled water in the vehicle
- Bale Mountains National Park fees and scout
- Full board meals at Bale Mountain Lodge
Not Included
- International flights and Ethiopian visa fees
- Travel insurance
- Optional flight from Robe to Addis Ababa
- Drinks, tips and personal expenses
Best Time to Go
October to March is dry with clear skies, the best time for wolf watching. The plateau can freeze at night, so bring warm clothes. July and August are wet and misty.
Frequently Asked Questions
How likely am I to see an Ethiopian wolf?
Very likely. Most visitors see wolves on the Sanetti Plateau, especially in the early morning.
Is the altitude a problem?
You drive up rather than hike, and spend only part of the day at 4,000 metres. Walk slowly and drink plenty of water.
Can I combine Bale with the Simien Mountains?
Yes. Our 9 day Ethiopia nature tour covers both, with geladas, walia ibex and wolves.
Tour Languages
Amharic, English, French, German, Italian, and Spanish. Please inform us of your preferred language when booking.
Note: The itinerary can be customized based on your preferences and time availability.
Booking Form
Did you find it interesting? For getting quotes and additional information, please use the below form.