A compact 2-day safari northeast of Addis Ababa that follows the Great Rift Valley’s volcanic edges to Awash Falls, Beseka Lake and Alideghe Reserve. Expect diverse birdlife, oryx and active nocturnal mammals, plus basic camping under clear Rift Valley skies.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Dust from the Rift Valley road rises behind the convoy as vehicles slide between blackened lava ridges and scrubby acacia. The air smells faintly of minerals and river spray; at Beseka Lake flaming pink-winged pelicans wheel like punctuation marks against a shallow, shimmering bowl. By afternoon the Awash River thunders over basalt steps at Awash Falls, the water daring visitors to draw closer while baboon troops patrol the riverbank.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 days (approx. 48 hours)
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; involves vehicle-based game drives and short, easy walks from vehicles
Wildlife
History
Awash National Park occupies a stretch of the Ethiopian Rift where volcanic flows and the Awash River shaped routes used for millennia by pastoralists and traders.
Conservation
Pressure from grazing, water extraction and invasive plants affects habitat; stay on designated roads, dispose of waste properly and follow guide instructions to reduce impact.
Reserve your spot on the Wildlife Safari to Awash National Park and Surrounding today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Time your drives
Wildlife is most active at dawn and dusk—schedule game drives early morning and late afternoon for the best sightings.
Bring binoculars
Long views across plains and lakes mean good optics will turn distant specks into identifiable birds and antelope.
Prepare for dust and sun
Wear UV protection and pack a bandana or buff; dusty tracks kick up quickly on dry days.
Secure food at camp
Store food and scented items in lockers or vehicles overnight to avoid attracting nocturnal predators and scavengers.
Binoculars (8x or 10x)
Critical for identifying birds and distant ungulates across open plains and lakes.
Sturdy walking shoes
Comfortable, closed-toe shoes for short walks, rocky viewpoints and campsite terrain.
Wide-brim hat & sunscreen
Protects against intense Rift Valley sun during long mid-day stretches.
summer
Headlamp or flashlight
Useful for campsite tasks and for observing nocturnal wildlife activity during night drives.