Birding · Wildlife
4-Day Rift Valley Birding
Koka, Ziway, Langano, Abijatta-Shalla and Hawassa: more than 300 species in four days.
- Duration
- 4 Days
- Season
- September to April
- Group Size
- 1 to 12 guests
- Price
- Designed Around You
The Journey
3 nights, designed around the hours that matter
An introduction to Ethiopia’s extraordinary birdlife. Follow the chain of Rift Valley lakes south from Koka Dam and Lake Ziway to Langano, Abijatta-Shalla and Hawassa, with flamingos, pelicans, kingfishers, raptors and Ethiopian endemics all possible along the way.
Day by Day
Detailed Day-by-Day Itinerary
This itinerary is carefully planned, but minor adjustments may be made due to weather, local festivals, road conditions or your personal interests to ensure the best possible experience.
Day 1
Addis Ababa – Koka Dam – Lake Ziway – Lake Langano
After breakfast, depart south from Addis Ababa toward the beautiful landscapes of Ethiopia’s Great Rift Valley. Your first birding stops will be at Koka Dam and Lake Ziway, two important wetland habitats known for their remarkable diversity of aquatic and terrestrial bird species. Explore the lakeshores and surrounding areas while searching for a variety of birds, including: African Pygmy Goose Black-billed Woodhoopoe Abyssinian Ground Hornbill Northern Black Tit Little Weaver Many other resident and migratory species Continue to Lake Langano, one of the Rift Valley’s most scenic lakes, surrounded by forests and rich bird habitats. Arrive at Sabana Lodge, beautifully located on the lakeshore, and enjoy a relaxing evening birding session around the lodge and nearby areas as the sun sets over the lake. Overnight: Sabana Lodge, Lake Langano.
Day 2
Lake Langano – Abijatta-Shalla National Park – Lake Hawassa
Begin the morning with birdwatching around Lake Langano, exploring the surrounding forests and lakeshore habitats in search of unique bird species. After breakfast, continue to Abijatta-Shalla National Park, one of Ethiopia’s most important wetland and birding destinations, home to a remarkable diversity of bird species. Explore the twin lakes of Abijatta and Shalla, where you may spot a wide variety of waterbirds and migratory species, including: Greater and Lesser Flamingos Storks, ibises, and cormorants Yellow Wagtails, swallows, and rollers African Marsh Harrier Chestnut-bellied Sandgrouse Many other resident and seasonal visitors Enjoy the spectacular scenery of the Rift Valley, with volcanic landscapes, open plains, and beautiful lakes providing excellent opportunities for birdwatching and photography. In the afternoon, continue to Hawassa, a peaceful lakeside city on the shores of Lake Hawassa. Relax at your hotel and enjoy an evening birding session along the lakeshore, where you may see Marabou Storks, egrets, and other waterbirds gathering around the lake at sunset. Overnight: Hawassa.
Day 3
Lake Hawassa Birding Experience
Begin the morning with an early birding excursion to the famous Lake Hawassa Fish Market, one of Ethiopia’s best-known birdwatching locations. Here, witness the unique interaction between local fishermen and the many bird species attracted to the lakeshore. Look for remarkable species such as: Silvery-cheeked Hornbill Spur-winged Goose Malachite Kingfisher African Fish Eagle Woodland Kingfisher Rouget’s Rail Many other waterbirds and woodland species After exploring the fish market, continue birding around Lake Hawassa’s wetlands, forest patches, and lakeshore trails. These diverse habitats provide excellent opportunities to observe both Ethiopian endemic species and migratory birds. With guidance from your expert birding guide, discover the rich biodiversity of the area while enjoying beautiful lakeside scenery and excellent photography opportunities. Overnight: Hawassa.
Day 4
Lake Hawassa – Lake Ziway – Addis Ababa Departure
After breakfast, begin your journey back to Addis Ababa, making birding stops along the way at Lake Ziway and the surrounding Great Rift Valley wetlands. These important habitats attract a wide range of resident and migratory bird species, offering excellent final opportunities for birdwatching and photography. Continue exploring the lakeshores and wetlands while searching for species such as: Yellow-billed Stork Collared Pratincole Lesser and African Jacanas White Pelican African Fish Eagle Crowned Crane Many other wetland and savannah birds Enjoy the changing landscapes of the Rift Valley before arriving back in Addis Ababa. In the evening, celebrate the end of your birding adventure with a traditional Ethiopian farewell dinner featuring authentic local cuisine, live music, cultural dance performances, and an unforgettable Ethiopian coffee ceremony. After dinner, transfer to Bole International Airport for your international departure. Thank you for traveling with Extraordinary Ethiopia Tours.
What Is Included
- Meet-and-assist at Bole International Airport and all transfers
- Private air-conditioned vehicle with a professional driver
- Specialist birding guide throughout
- 3 nights of accommodation: Lakeside Eco-Lodges & Resorts
- Full board: breakfast, lunch and dinner
- National park entrance fees and scouts
Not Included
- International flights and Ethiopian visa
- Travel insurance (strongly recommended)
- Drinks, tips and personal expenses
Before You Book
Questions about this journey
How long is this tour?
When is the best time to take this tour?
Is it private, and can the itinerary be changed?
How much does it cost, and how do I book?
Guest reviews
What our guests say
Rated 5.0 on Tripadvisor and Google, and 4.9 on SafariBookings.
“My tour operator was very communicative even before the trip began and very responsive on WhatsApp. He booked all my domestic flights and arranged all my airport pick-ups and drop-offs. He had professional guides in all the regions I visited, the itinerary was clear, and he was flexible with any changes. There were no extra costs. He is reliable, communicative and well experienced. I will be back with the same company.”
Sarah · Kenya · August 2026
Read more reviews on SafariBookings“Excellent services provided by Maereg and his team. The local guides and the drivers – Geta (my fave) – were all great. They were patient, professional, knowledgeable and took great care of us. Everything was seamlessly coordinated and they were always on time for pickups and made sure we were briefed in advance of the itinerary and any changes. One of my top travel destinations in Africa, with some of the kindest and warmest people. Maereg went above and beyond! First-class service, always with a smile!”
D Thomas · Google review · May 2026
Read more reviews on GoogleEnquire
Make 4-Day Rift Valley Birding yours
Send us your dates and we will confirm availability, quote precisely, and suggest the two or three changes we would make if it were our own trip.
Runs September to April · 1 to 12 guests · A quote made for your journey
Let’s Plan Your Ethiopian Adventure
Tell us a little about your travel plans. We’ll help you create a journey that suits your interests.
Other Journeys
You may also be weighing up
Discover Ethiopia. Experience the Extraordinary!
Questions before you enquire?
Altitude, road time, how hard the walking really is, whether the children will cope. Ask us anything. Our team will answer honestly.
Or call us directly on +251 912 039405