Chebera Churchura National Park Tour

Experience untouched wilderness with large elephant populations, buffalo herds, hippos, and countless bird species in one of Ethiopia's most rewarding wildlife destinations.

5 Days

Chebera Churchura National Park represents one of Ethiopia’s most rewarding wildlife destinations and best-kept secrets. This pristine wilderness area offers visitors a rare chance to experience untouched African savanna with abundant wildlife populations and diverse ecosystems.

The park’s large elephant population stands as its primary attraction, with herds regularly seen moving through the woodland and grassland areas. These magnificent creatures roam freely across the park’s varied terrain, providing exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities for photographers and nature enthusiasts.

Buffalo herds graze the open grasslands in impressive numbers, often accompanied by various antelope species and other herbivores. The interaction between different species creates dynamic wildlife viewing scenarios throughout the day.

The park’s water features support healthy hippo populations, with these massive mammals spending their days in rivers and lakes before emerging to graze during evening hours. The aquatic environments also attract numerous bird species and provide drinking water for terrestrial wildlife.

Birdwatching enthusiasts will find Chebera Churchura exceptionally rewarding, with hundreds of species inhabiting the diverse habitats. The combination of woodland, grassland, wetland, and forest environments creates ideal conditions for both resident and migratory bird species.

The scenic lake and waterfalls accessible through forest treks provide additional natural highlights beyond wildlife viewing. These water features create peaceful settings for relaxation and offer different perspectives on the park’s ecosystem diversity.

Staying two nights inside the park maximizes wildlife viewing opportunities, as many species are most active during early morning and late afternoon hours. This extended presence allows for multiple game drives and increases chances of observing rare or elusive species.

The Great Rift Valley drive provides spectacular scenery and geological education, showcasing Ethiopia’s dramatic landscape formations. Lake Hawassa serves as an excellent rest stop with its own birdwatching opportunities and lakeside relaxation.

The park’s remote location and limited visitor numbers ensure an authentic wilderness experience without crowding. This isolation preserves the natural behavior patterns of wildlife and maintains the pristine condition of ecosystems.

Local guides and security escorts provide safety while sharing extensive knowledge about wildlife behavior, tracking techniques, and conservation efforts. Their expertise enhances the safari experience through informed interpretation of animal interactions and habitat relationships.

This tour appeals to serious wildlife enthusiasts seeking authentic African safari experiences in lesser-known destinations, photographers pursuing unique wildlife photography opportunities, and travelers interested in supporting conservation efforts in emerging protected areas.

Tour Highlights

  • Large elephant population and buffalo herds
  • Hippo watching and diverse aquatic wildlife
  • Countless bird species in pristine wilderness
  • Forest treks to scenic lake and waterfalls
  • Two nights inside the park for optimal wildlife viewing
  • Great Rift Valley scenic drive through Hawassa
  • Untouched wilderness safari experience
  • Lake Hawassa relaxation and birdwatching

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Addis Ababa – Hawassa – Sodo

Morning departure from Addis Ababa. Drive through the Great Rift Valley with a stop in Hawassa to enjoy lakeside activities. Continue to Sodo (approx. 6–7 hrs total). Overnight at Haile Resort Sodo.

Day 2: Sodo – Chebera Churchura National Park

Drive 200 km (4–5 hrs) to the park. Check in at the lodge or set up camp. Begin your first game drive inside the park. Overnight at lodge or campsite.

Day 3: Full-Day Safari in Chebera

Morning and afternoon wildlife safaris. Spot elephants, buffalo, hippos, and a variety of birdlife. Hike through the forest to the lake and waterfall. Overnight at lodge or campsite.

Day 4: Chebera – Hawassa

Early morning game drive. After breakfast, depart for Hawassa via Sodo. Overnight at hotel in Hawassa.

Day 5: Hawassa – Addis Ababa

Relax by Lake Hawassa in the morning. Drive back to Addis Ababa (approx. 5 hrs). Drop-off at your hotel or airport.

What's Included

  • All transportation (drive from Addis Ababa & back)
  • Accommodation (camping or first-class lodge)
  • All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
  • Local guide & security escort
  • Park entrance fees
  • Bottled water

What's Not Included

  • Domestic flights
  • Personal expenses
  • Alcoholic drinks

Book This Tour

Ready to experience this amazing journey? Contact us to book your tour or get more information.

Contact Us