Bale Mountains National Park, Ethiopia

Bale Mountains

This high altitude area is scattered with volcanic peaks, alpine lakes and rushing mountain streams that descend into deep rocky gorges on their way to the lowlands below. It offers the opportunity for walking, horse trekking, scenic driving and the chance to view many of Ethiopia’s endemic mammals.

Scenically, the highlight is the Sanetti Plateau, studded with enormous lobelias and cool tarns that provide the essential existing stronghold for the Ethiopian wolf, a russet endemic that’s regarded to be the world’s rarest carnivore.

It’s not only endemic wildlife that makes Bale so special – the area embraces sixteen of Ethiopia’s endemic birds including forest-dwelling endemics – the Yellow-fronted Parrot, Abyssinian catbird, Banded barbet and Abyssinian woodpecker. In the Sanetti moorlands, the keen ornithologists are able to spot Blue-winged Goose, Rouget’s rail and Spotbreasted lapwing.

Experiences

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Ethiopian Wolf, Bale Mountains, Ethiopia

Wildlife of the Bale Mountains

Explore the Bale Mountains, home of many of Ethiopia’s endemic mammals, in particular, the Ethiopian wolf and Bale Mountains vervet.

Suggested Holiday Idea

Lace Wing, Bale Mountains, Ethiopia

Bird Watching

Experience the sights, sounds and smells of the forest and spot some excellent birdlife.

Suggested Holiday Idea

Sanetti Plateau in the crisp early morning, Bale Mountain Lodge, Ethiopia

Horse riding and hiking

Get out and explore this mountainous landscape on horse back or on foot.

Suggested Holiday Idea

Bale Mountains, Ethiopia

Unique Bale Ecosystem

Discover the largest area of Afro-alpine habitat in the whole of the African continent, found in the Bale Mountains.

Suggested lodge

View from Lodge, Bale Mountain Lodge, Bale Mountains National Park, Ethiopia
Bale Mountain Lodge, Bale Mountains, Ethiopia

Bale Mountain Lodge

Set in a forest clearing, this Eco-lodge features 15 thatched mahogany and stone rooms made from sustainable wood and furnishings. With wood-burning fires and private terraces, all rooms will enjoy wonderful views.

Views are taken advantage of here with a glass-walled restaurant and a glass-bottomed spa. Combine with the Simien Mountains in the north and the Rift Valley in the south.

View Lodge

Meet our experts

A passion for travel runs right through every one of our experts - meaning they're always ready with first-hand insight about their specialist countries.

Illona Cross

Born in a small South African town, I have always followed my passion for nature and discovery. After studying Nature Conservation in Pretoria, I was one of the first women to complete a very tough cadetship in the Natal Parks Board. It was here where I cut my teeth in African wildlife management.

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