Danakil / Afar

Yangudi Rassa National Park

Semi-desert Afar park created to protect the critically endangered African wild ass.

What is Yangudi Rassa National Park

Yangudi Rassa National Park is a 4,731 square kilometre semi-desert park in Ethiopia's Afar region, centred on Mount Yangudi and the Rassa plains along the Addis Ababa to Djibouti highway. It was designated in 1969 mainly to protect the critically endangered African wild ass. The wild ass is now very rare and is no longer reliably seen inside the park, but a small population survives in the neighbouring Mille-Serdo Wildlife Reserve.

The park covers sandy semi-desert, lava fields and wooded grassland, with the Awash River on its edge. Wildlife includes Beisa oryx, Soemmerring’s gazelle, gerenuk, zebra and around 200 bird species adapted to the heat.

Park headquarters are at Gewane, to the south of the park.

Why Visit Yangudi Rassa National Park

Yangudi Rassa is for travellers who love desert landscapes, Afar culture and rare dry-country wildlife. It is also one of the last places on earth associated with the wild ass, the ancestor of the domestic donkey, and a powerful reminder of what is at stake in Ethiopian conservation.

History and Significance of Yangudi Rassa National Park

The park was set up in 1969 but was never formally gazetted. Limited funding, competition for grazing with Afar pastoralists, and drought have reduced its wildlife. Surveys in recent decades found the wild ass had disappeared from the park itself, while a remnant population persisted in adjacent Mille-Serdo. Ethiopia and Eritrea now hold the last wild populations of this species.

Top Things to Do in Yangudi Rassa National Park

Dry-country wildlife: Beisa oryx, Soemmerring’s gazelle and gerenuk on the plains.
Mount Yangudi: the volcanic massif that dominates the park.
Afar culture: meet Afar pastoralists and see their dome-shaped houses with a local guide.
Birdwatching: bustards, coursers and raptors.
Wild ass search: with expert guides, enquire about sightings in Mille-Serdo.

Best Time to Visit Yangudi Rassa National Park

November to February is the coolest period and the most comfortable for visiting the Afar lowlands. From May to September daytime temperatures are extremely high.

Period	What to expect
November to February	Coolest months; best for visits.
March to April	Hot; early mornings only.
May to September	Very hot; not recommended.

How to Get to Yangudi Rassa National Park from Addis Ababa

Drive from Addis Ababa via Awash along the Djibouti highway, about 350 to 400 kilometres, in a full day. The highway crosses the park, and park headquarters are at Gewane. A 4×4 and an Afar guide are essential for any off-road exploration.

How Many Days Do You Need in Yangudi Rassa National Park

Allow one to two days for a visit, usually combined with Awash National Park or a longer Afar journey.

Trip type	Suggested time
Drive-through	A few hours on the highway route.
Short visit	One night with a guided game drive.
Afar journey	Combine with Awash and the Danakil.

Where to Stay in Yangudi Rassa National Park

Facilities are very basic. Most travellers stay in Awash town or at lodges near Awash National Park, or camp with full support.

What to Wear and Pack for Yangudi Rassa National Park

Bring sun protection, a wide-brimmed hat, plenty of water, light long-sleeved clothing and binoculars. Respect local customs and ask before photographing people.

Is Yangudi Rassa National Park Safe to Visit

At the time of writing, the UK government advises against all but essential travel to most of the Afar region. Heat is a serious hazard, and the area is remote. Check current official advice and travel only with experienced local support.

Nearby Attractions and Suggested Itineraries

Awash National Park and its gorge and waterfalls lie to the southwest. Further north are Afrera, Erta Ale and the Danakil Depression; east are Dire Dawa and Harar.