4-Day Birdwatching Adventure: Bochesa wetland, Eja Langano, Abijata-Shalla & Wondo Genet tropical forest.
Explore Ethiopia’s top Rift Valley birding hotspots on this immersive 4-day tour. Visit Bochesa Wetland, Eja Langano, Northern Abijata, Lake Hawassa, and Wondo Genet Forest. Designed for birdwatchers, nature lovers, and photographers, this expert-guided journey combines diverse habitats, endemic species, and stunning landscapes.
Day 1: Addis Ababa – Bochesa Wetland – Lake Langano
Depart early south to Bochesa Wetland near Ziway, a key site for wetland birds.
Highlights: Blue-winged Goose, Wattled Ibis, African Snipe, Spur-winged Lapwing.
Continue to Lake Langano for afternoon birding around Eja Lodge.
Highlights: Yellow-fronted Parrot, Abyssinian Owl, African Fish Eagle, Grey-headed Kingfisher, Superb Starling, Lilac-breasted Roller.
Overnight: Lake Langano
Day 2: Abijata-Shalla National Park – Hawassa
Morning exploration of Abijata-Shalla National Park, known for flamingos and open savannah birdlife.
Highlights: Greater & Lesser Flamingos, Great White Pelican, Marabou Stork, Ostrich, Kori Bustard, Abyssinian Ground Hornbill.
Raptors at Lake Shalla cliffs include Verreaux’s Eagle and Lanner Falcon.
After lunch, drive to Hawassa for lakeside birding.
Overnight: Hawassa
Day 3: Amora Gedel – Fish Market – Wondo Genet
Early birding at Amora Gedel, rich in fig trees and lakeshore species.
Highlights: African Fish Eagle, Silvery-cheeked Hornbill, White-cheeked Turaco, Colobus Monkey.
Visit Hawassa Fish Market for close bird encounters.
Afternoon excursion to Wondo Genet Forest, a biodiversity hotspot.
Highlights: Narina Trogon, Crowned Eagle, African Emerald Cuckoo, Yellow-fronted Parrot.
Overnight: Hawassa
Day 4: Lake Hawassa – Boat Trip – Addis Ababa
Morning birding along the eastern shore.
Highlights: Malachite & Pied Kingfishers, Hamerkop, African Jacana, Red-knobbed Coot.
Enjoy a boat trip for close-up views of waterbirds including fish eagles, pelicans, and herons.
Return to Addis Ababa with a stop at Lake Hora (Bishoftu).
Tour ends with hotel or airport drop-off.
