Ethiopia is a country of wonder, from the ancient obelisks of Axum to the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela. But for birders, this Horn of Africa nation offers another kind of wonder: an astonishing variety of avian life, with more than 860 species recorded within its borders.
Spanning the Great Rift Valley and covering habitats ranging from lush montane forests to vast savannas and desert plains, Ethiopia is a true paradise for bird lovers. The country has 30 impressive endemic species that are not found anywhere else on Earth, as well as a host of regional specialties that it only shares with neighboring Eritrea and Somalia.
In this all-encompassing guide, we will explore some of Ethiopia’s most popular birding spots, show you some highly sought-after endemic and specialty species, and offer practical tips to help you plan your own Ethiopian bird watching adventure. Whether you’re an experienced birder or simply someone looking for a new vacation destination in nature, Ethiopia promises an unforgettable trip through one of Africa’s greatest avian wonders.
Why Birdwatchers Love Ethiopia
Almost 900 species strong at just over 860 kinds (that’s what “species” means), it has been said that no African country can compete with Ethiopia when it comes to ornithological diversity. Its great number could be due to its location smack on the crossroads between the African region and Eurasian area. However, influences from places like the Sahel region , Congo Basin, Arabian Peninsula have also helped shape its avifauna.
The country itself is quite mountainous which works well with lots of birds’ lifestyles. With dramatic plateaus divided by deep valleys running through them all shaped by the Great Rift Valley system , different types of environments were formed. There are cool moist forests up high in Bale Mountains while hot dry plains are scattered across Danakil Desert – each of these habitats support their own unique group of birds.
Aside from these, Ethiopia also has some other rarities to offer. For ornithologists who love rare species, treasures such as the Rouget’s Rail, the Spot-breasted Lapwing, and the dazzling Prince Ruspoli’s Turaco will be right up your alley.
Ornithologists who love exploring new areas will appreciate Ethiopia’s regional specialties. These are birds that it shares with neighboring Eritrea and Somalia only. A few examples include the striking Stresemann’s Bushcrow, the diminutive Archer’s Lark, and the charming Somali Fiscal.
Yet there is even more to see in Ethiopia! Its diverse habitats allow a myriad of African and Eurasian birds to flourish. You’ll find those colorful sunbirds, bee-eaters and majestic eagles and vultures here too – alongside many resident species along with exciting migratory ones that come visit year-round.
Top Birding Locations in Ethiopia
1. Bale Mountains National Park
The Bale Mountains offer some of Ethiopia’s most desired endemic and specialty species for birdwatchers. They’re set in the southeast region of the country, and this national park is home to a variety of habitats like misty evergreen forests and windswept Afro-alpine moorlands.
The park’s highlight is certainly the Rouget’s Rail, a flame-colored bird that you can only find in Ethiopia’s high-altitude wetlands. Other specialties include the Blue-winged Goose, Spot-breasted Lapwing, and Abyssinian Longclaw which all inhabit the grasslands and bogs across the park.
In addition to these lovely birds, several raptor species also migrate here including Golden Eagles and Bearded Vultures. Their soaring over dramatic peaks and valleys make them unforgettable sights for any birder or nature enthusiast who happens to be nearby.
Bale Mountain has its challenges. The high altitude combined with rough terrain can test even seasoned birders, but those who persevere shall be rewarded. Trails are available throughout along with guide services from Goba town near by. If you are not familiar with this topography it is highly recommended that you seek out a local guide to help locate each bird species.
2. Awash National Park
Awash National Park is an expansive protected area located in central Ethiopia known best for it’s cultural identity and diverse range of birds. Acacia woodlands, grasslands as well as volcanic craters compose distinct avian communities within this park.
Some of their most sought-after species include Arabian Bustard, Somali Ostrich and Yellow-breasted Barbet which can all be spotted in the arid grasslands found here. The park also plays host to several eagle & vulture species such as Lappet-faced Vulture and Egyptian Vulture both being critically endangered.
While visiting Awash, don’t forget to check out the rest of the wildlife. The park also calls home to endangered Grevy’s Zebra and Beisa Oryx, which are heavily sought after for photographers. Hot springs and waterfalls can also be found here providing an ideal backdrop for anyone looking to take photos of this diverse ecosystem.
Awash is known for it’s heat and dust, especially during dry season, but with unique habitats like this containing specialty birds, no one should pass up on a visit. There are roads throughout with campgrounds along them so you’ll have plenty of options when deciding how to approach your trip.
Guided tours are available in Awash and Metahara towns near by.
3. Lalibela
Lalibela is not only famous for its rock-hewn churches; it’s also an excellent place for birders to see many endemic and specialty species. Found in northern Ethiopia, surrounded by mountains & valleys; Lalibela has all the makings of a birder paradise.
One of their most popular birds is White-billed Starling, a striking black-and-white bird which can only be found in highlands of Ethiopia and Eritrea. Abyssinian Catbird, Rüppell’s Black Chat and Erckel’s Francolin can all be found just outside town as well.
Lalibela is also a good base for exploring the nearby Simien Mountains National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning scenery and unique wildlife. The park is home to several endemic species, including the Walia Ibex, the Gelada Baboon, and the majestic Lammergeier.
Birding in Lalibela can be challenging due to the town’s high altitude and hilly terrain, but the chance to see some of Ethiopia’s most iconic birds and cultural sites makes it a worthwhile stop on any birding itinerary. Guided tours and bird walks are available from local hotels and tour operators.
4. Rift Valley Lakes
The Rift Valley Lakes are a chain of freshwater and saline lakes that run through the heart of Ethiopia, providing a vital habitat for a wide range of water birds and other aquatic species. The lakes are home to some of the country’s most spectacular birdwatching sites, including Lake Langano, Lake Abijatta, and Lake Shalla.
Some of the most sought-after birds in the Rift Valley Lakes include the Lesser Flamingo, the Greater Flamingo, and the African Spoonbill , all of which can be seen in huge numbers during breeding season . Other notable species include Saddle-billed Stork , African Fish Eagle , Great White Pelican .
In addition to their birdlife , the Rift Valley Lakes are known for their stunning scenery and unique geological features , including hot springs , volcanic craters , and dramatic escarpments . The lakes are also an important source of livelihood for local communities , who rely on them for fishing , irrigation , and other economic activities .
Birding at the Rift Valley Lakes can be hot and dry especially during peak dry season but being able to see such a wide range of water birds in one place with this beautiful natural setting is not something you want to miss out on . The lakes are easily accessible from the capital city of Addis Ababa , and guided tours are available from local tour operators and birdwatching lodges.
5. Debre Libanos
Debre Libanos is a small town in central Ethiopia, known for its ancient monastery and stunning natural scenery. But for birders, Debre Libanos also offers some excellent opportunities to see a range of endemic and specialty species, especially in the surrounding gorges and forests.
One of the most sought-after birds in Debre Libanos is the Harwood’s Francolin, a rare and elusive species found only in a small range of central Ethiopia. Other notable species include White-cheeked Turaco , Banded Barbet , Black-winged Lovebird .
Debre Libanos is also a good base for exploring the nearby Jemma River Gorge, a stunning natural wonder known for its rugged cliffs, waterfalls, and abundant birdlife. The gorge is home to several species of raptors, including Verreaux’s Eagle impressive and Peregrine Falcon .
Birding at Debre Libanos can be challenging due to the rugged terrain and lack of infrastructure, but seeing some of Ethiopia’s rarest and most spectacular birds makes it an unbeatable destination for dedicated birders.
