East Ethiopia Tours Awash & Harar 4 Days
Tour Overview
This 4-day adventure combines Ethiopia’s remarkable natural and cultural heritage. From the wildlife-rich savannas of Awash National Park, home to baboons, oryx, and over 460 bird species, to the ancient walled city of Harar, considered the fourth holiest city in Islam, this journey offers a unique mix of safari exploration and historical immersion. Ideal for travelers seeking both nature and history, this route brings you from the acacia-dotted lowlands to the spiritual highlands of Eastern Ethiopia.
Day 1: Addis Ababa to Awash National Park
Depart Addis Ababa in the morning for Awash National Park, enjoying scenic views along the way. Stop for lunch en route before arriving at the park in the afternoon. Explore the park’s rich biodiversity with a guided wildlife excursion. Among the 80 species of mammals recorded in the park, you may encounter Hamadryas and Anubis baboons, Beisa oryx, Soemmerring’s gazelle, and Salt’s dik-dik. With luck, you might also spot greater and lesser kudu, Defassa waterbuck, warthogs, vervet and guereza monkeys, and possibly spotted hyenas. The park is also a haven for birdwatchers, boasting over 460 bird species, including the Ethiopian cliff swallow and yellow-throated serin, both endemic to Ethiopia.
Overnight: Lodge or campsite in Awash National Park
Day 2: Awash National Park to Harar
Start the day with an early game drive, the best time for viewing wildlife. After the game drive, continue eastward toward Harar, passing through dry acacia plains and eventually ascending into the cooler Chercher Mountains. Upon arrival in Harar, take a walking tour of the old walled city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore its narrow, winding streets, admire the historic city walls (unchanged since the 16th century), and visit the bustling Islamic market known for spices, textiles, and traditional crafts.
Day 3: Harar – Full-Day City Exploration
Spend a full day discovering the cultural and historical richness of Harar. Visit the Abdela Sherif Harari City Museum, located in the former palace of Ras Mekonnen (father of Emperor Haile Selassie). The museum displays over 300 ancient manuscripts, Harari coins, traditional weapons, costumes, and musical instruments. Continue to the Arthur Rimbaud Museum, dedicated to the French poet who once lived in Harar. The museum also houses a fascinating collection of early 20th-century photographs, offering insights into Harar’s past. Optional: Attend the famous Hyena Feeding Ceremony in the evening.
Day 4: Harar to Addis Ababa
Conclude the tour with a scenic drive back to Addis Ababa. The journey will take most of the day, offering time to reflect on the wildlife sightings and cultural discoveries made during your trip. Upon arrival in Addis, transfer to your hotel or connect to your onward travel.
