Ever dreamt of seeing the Ethiopian wolf on safari? Then pack your binoculars and sense of adventure because this trip promises an experience like no other. The Ethiopian wolf is a unique and special species for several reasons. One of the most distinctive characteristics of the Ethiopian wolf is its physical appearance. These canids are slender and long-limbed, with a coat that is reddish with distinct white marks on their legs, tail, belly, face, and chin. The border between the white and red fur is quite distinct, and they have a characteristic white crescent below the eyes and a white spot on the cheeks.
The Ethiopian wolf’s build is more akin to a coyote than typical wolves, with a long and narrow skull, and they are distinguished by their red and white fur. They also have a longer muzzle and smaller teeth compared to other wolves. Male Ethiopian wolves are significantly larger than the females, with the males weighing between 33-42 pounds and the females weighing from 24-31 pounds.
Getting to Ethiopia is a breeze with several international airlines servicing Bole International Airport in Addis Ababa. Ethiopian Airlines offers direct flights from many major cities worldwide. From Addis Ababa, you can either take a domestic flight to Goba or opt for the scenic drive to Bale Mountains National Park, allowing for a more immersive experience of the Ethiopian landscape.
Where to Spot the Ethiopian Wolf
Your Ethiopian Wolf Safari begins in Ethiopia’s spellbinding Bale Mountains National Park. Tucked away in the south-eastern part of the country, this park is a sanctuary for the Ethiopian wolf, the most endangered canid in the world. Picture yourself standing on the undulating plateaus of the Sanetti Plateau, where the air is crisp and the sky is painted with dramatic hues at sunrise and sunset. Here, amidst the afro-alpine moorlands dotted with giant lobelias and everlasting flowers, is where you’re likely to catch a glimpse of these striking creatures.
A 6-Day Itinerary to find the Ethiopian Wolf
Day 1: Arrival in Addis Ababa
Fly into the Bole International Airport, a modern gateway that connects you with the rich tapestry of Ethiopia. After clearing customs, a short transfer will whisk you away to your accommodation in the bustling capital city. Consider staying at the Sheraton Addis, known for its luxury, or opt for the cozy and eco-friendly Zola International Hotel.
Day 2: Drive to the Bale Mountains
The following morning, set off on a scenic drive to the Bale Mountains. As you journey south, the landscape changes dramatically from urban sprawl to rolling hills and patchwork farmlands. The aromatic scent of eucalyptus trees will fill the air as you pass through small villages and lively markets. Arrive at the Bale Mountain Lodge or the charming Wabe Shebelle Hotel, where rustic elegance meets the wilderness.
Day 3-5: Exploring the Sanetti Plateau
Wake up to the sounds of chirping birds and the occasional grunt of a mountain nyala. Spend the next few days exploring the Sanetti Plateau. As the morning mist rises, keep your eyes peeled for the Ethiopian wolf, often seen trotting gracefully across the plateau in search of highland rats. The sight of their striking reddish coats and slender frames against the lush green backdrop is an image you won’t forget. During the day, the air is filled with the calls of rare endemic birds like the blue-winged goose and wattled crane.
Day 6: Harenna Forest Adventure
Venture into the mystical Harenna Forest, where dense foliage, the sweet scent of wildflowers, and the rustle of colobus monkeys add a new dimension to your trip. This forest offers a stark contrast to the open plateau and is a haven for different wildlife species.
Day 7: Return to Addis Ababa
After soaking in the wonders of the Bale Mountains, make your way back to Addis Ababa. On your final evening, reflect on your incredible journey with a cup of traditional Ethiopian coffee and perhaps a spot of souvenir shopping at the vibrant Mercato.
Accommodations
For accommodations, the Bale Mountain Lodge provides a unique mix of eco-friendly luxury and proximity to wolf habitats, offering a comfortable retreat that respects the environment. Alternatively, the Wabe Shebelle Hotel in Goba is a more budget-friendly option that doesn’t scrimp on comfort. Both options give you a perfect base to venture out each day and return to a warm, welcoming bed each night.
An Ethiopian wolf safari is not just about the destination, but about the moments in between—the feel of the highland breeze, the sight of rare birds soaring above, and the thrill of spotting one of the world’s rarest canids against a backdrop of untouched beauty. It’s the kind of adventure that leaves footprints on your heart long after you’ve returned home. So why not take that trip?
The Bale Mountains are calling, and the Ethiopian wolf awaits.
