5-Day Culture, Nature & Adventure Tours in Eastern Ethiopia

• 4 Days / 3 Night
• Eastern Ethiopia

Overview

Eastern Ethiopia is where adventure meets serenity and history intertwines with nature. This region is a treasure trove of natural wonders and cultural heritage, offering a unique and unforgettable experience for every traveler. Discover the captivating destinations that await you in this untouched paradise.

Awash National Park

Dive into the heart of nature in Awash National Park, a sanctuary for diverse wildlife and a haven for bird watchers. Home to over 300 species of birds and a variety of plains animals, this park offers a glimpse into Ethiopia’s rich biodiversity. Marvel at the majestic Awash Falls, where the river plunges into a deep gorge, creating a spectacular sight. The park’s volcanic landscapes, acacia woodlands, and open savannahs provide a stunning backdrop for an unforgettable safari adventure.

Dire Dawa

Established in 1902 along the Addis Ababa-Djibouti railway, the city is anchored by its iconic colonial-era railway station and adjacent museum, rich with 20th-century architecture.
Bustling markets in the city such as Kefira, one of the largest open-air markets; Taiwan Market, a more modern market mainly for electronics and clothing; Ashawa, livestock and khat market; Kezira and Megala quarters with cobbled streets and blend of Islamic and colonial architecture; street cafes, and kezira Roundup hub; cultural sites such as Ethnographic Museum; Ras Mekonin Palace and prehistoric caves with ancient rock art and stone-age tools are among the attractions to be visited in Dire Dawa City Administrative Region.

Haramaya Lake

The lake is a popular day-trip spot about 20 km south of Dire Dawa. The lake is surrounded by farmland and local villages. It offers serene views-ideal for picnicking, birding, or fishing.

Awaday Khat Market

It is recognized as the largest Khat-trading center worldwide, open 24/7. Khat leaves are harvested locally and exported to Somalia, Djibouti, Europe, and the Arabian Peninsula. It is a unique place for cultural immersion to experience a whirlwind commercial scene-buyers, middlemen, and trucks of fresh khat leaves are reflections of the regional economy and social habits. Khat is Ethiopia’s fourth-largest export cash crop, and Awaday handles around 25 tons of fresh khat leaves daily.

Harar City

Step back in time as you wander through the ancient walled city of Harar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its vibrant culture and rich history. Explore the narrow alleyways lined with colorful markets, historic mosques, and traditional Harari homes. Engage with the locals and experience the unique customs and traditions of this culturally rich city. Don’t miss the iconic Hyena Man show, where you can witness the centuries-old tradition of feeding wild hyenas by hand.

Babile Elephant Sanctuary

Experience the rare opportunity to encounter African elephants in their natural habitat at the Babile Elephant Sanctuary. Nestled in a tranquil setting, this sanctuary is dedicated to the preservation of these magnificent creatures. Wander through the sanctuary and immerse yourself in the peaceful surroundings, observing elephants, antelopes, and various bird species. It’s a perfect spot for nature enthusiasts and those seeking a serene retreat.

Kundudo Mountain

Witness the grace and beauty of wild horses roaming freely on Kundudo Mountain. This unique experience allows you to observe these majestic animals in their natural habitat, surrounded by breathtaking scenery. The mountain’s diverse ecosystems, from lush forests to open grasslands, provide a picturesque setting for nature lovers and wildlife photographers.

Eastern Ethiopia beckons you with its untouched landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and unparalleled natural beauty. Whether you seek adventure, cultural immersion, or simply a retreat into nature, Eastern Ethiopia has something for every traveler.

Begin your journey with us and uncover the hidden treasures of Eastern Ethiopia. Book your adventure today and let the exploration begin!

Itinerary

Day 1: Addis Ababa – Awash National Park

Morning:
⦁ Depart early from Addis Ababa by road (approx. 4-5 hours).
⦁ Arrive at Awash National Park.

Afternoon:
⦁ Explore Awash National Park, home to baboons, kudu, gazelles, and over 450 bird species.
⦁ Visit Awash Falls, a spectacular waterfall plunging into a deep gorge.

Evening:
⦁ Overnight stay at a lodge near the park or a campsite inside the park.

Day 2: Awash National Park – Dire Dawa – Harar

Morning:
⦁ Early wildlife viewing in Awash National Park.
⦁ Drive to Dire Dawa (approx. 2-3 hours).
⦁ Lunch in Dire Dawa.

Afternoon:
⦁ Visit the historic Chemin de Fer Railway Station (old French-built station).
⦁ Explore Kafira Market, famous for its colorful local stalls.
⦁ Drive (~1 hour) to Haramaya Lake for boating and birdwatching.
⦁ On the way to Harar, visit Aweday Khat Market — one of Ethiopia’s largest khat trade hubs; learn about khat’s cultural and economic importance.

Evening:
⦁ Drive (~45 minutes) to Harar.
⦁ Check into your cultural guesthouse.
⦁ Stroll through the ancient alleyways of Harar’s 16th-century walled city, the fourth holiest city in Islam.

Day 3: Full Day Tour of Harar

Morning:
⦁ Visit the Jugol Wall and the five historic gates of Harar.
⦁ Explore mosques and churches that highlight religious harmony.
⦁ Discover vibrant local markets and traditional Harari coffee shops.

Afternoon:
⦁ Visit the Abdella Sherif Museum, home to 300+ ancient manuscripts.
⦁ Explore the Arthur Rimbaud Museum, dedicated to the French poet.

Evening:
⦁ Experience the unique Hyena Feeding Ceremony — watch local “hyena men” feed wild hyenas by hand.
⦁ Return to your guesthouse.

Dinner:
⦁ Enjoy traditional Harari dishes such as Kitfo (minced raw beef), Doro Wat (spicy chicken stew), and Injera (Ethiopian flatbread).

Day 4: Kundudo Mountain – Overnight Adventure

Early Morning:
⦁ Drive to Kundudo Mountain in Gursum District (elevation ~2,965 m / 9,728 ft).
⦁ Discover the rare population of wild Kundudo horses — one of the only remaining feral horse populations in Africa, believed to descend from Abyssinian horses lost during 16th-century conflicts.

Day & Evening:
⦁ Explore the mountain landscape, enjoy nature, and gain cultural insights.
⦁ Overnight camping on the mountain under the stars.

Day 5: Babile Camel Market – Dakhata Valley – Babile Elephant Sanctuary

Morning:
⦁ Drive back to Babile and visit the Babile Camel Market (held every Monday morning), one of the largest in the region. Watch traders from Ethiopia, Djibouti, and Somalia buying and selling camels with traditional handshake deals.

Late Morning:
⦁ Head to Dakhata Valley (Valley of Marvels), about 7 km from Babile. Explore its stunning natural rock formations shaped by centuries of erosion. Ideal for geology lovers and birdwatchers.
⦁ Lunch: Enjoy lunch back in Harar.

Afternoon:
⦁ Visit the Babile Elephant Sanctuary, home to an isolated population of 200-300 African bush elephants, one of the last in the Horn of Africa. The sanctuary spans diverse habitats, including acacia woodlands, scrublands, and savannahs.

Late Afternoon:
⦁ Return to Dire Dawa Airport for your onward flight or travel back.

Total Price: $900 pp

Included
⦁ Breakfast
⦁ Bottled water
⦁ Transportation
⦁ Tour Guide
⦁ Entrance fees
⦁ Accommodation
⦁ Meal
⦁ Boat service
⦁ Scout

Excluded
⦁ Souvenir purchases
⦁ Alcoholic Drinks
⦁ Laundry Services
⦁ Tips