Bale Mountains National Park

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Expert

Harriet Nimmo –

Visited: February

Harriet is a zoologist with more than 20 years’ experience. She has the privilege of working with the world’s top wildlife photographers and photo-guides.

THE place to see the Ethiopian Wolf

Overall rating

3/5

Wildlife:

Bush Vibe:

Scenery:

Birding:

This is the jewel in the crown of Ethiopia’s national parks – it is THE place to see the highly endangered Ethiopian wolf as well as a hotspot for a number of Ethiopia’s endemic birds. It is a stunningly beautiful park, with wild alpine scenery on top of the 4000m high Sanetti Plateau, and juniper and hagenia woodlands on the lower foothills. The Ethiopian wolf is relatively easy to see on the plateau – though they are quite shy, and difficult to photograph. Endemic birds on the plateau include the blue-winged goose, Rouget’s rail, wattled ibis, Abyssinian longclaw and spot breasted lapwing. Although not endemic, we also had great sightings of bearded vulture up here.

In the juniper forest on the foothills, you should hopefully see the mountain nyala and Menelik’s bushbuck, and endemic bird specials such as Abyssian catbird, black-headed siskin and white-backed black tit. Make sure you schedule enough time to visit both these very different habitats in Bale.
As well as the more basic rest-camp at the Park HQ, the newly opened Bale Mountain Lodge is a game-changer in Ethiopia’s eco-tourism industry, with knowledgeable guides, great food and comfortable chalets.

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