Day 1: Addis Ababa – Jimma – Chebera Churchura
Fly to Jimma, meet your crew, and drive towards Chebera Churchura National Park through the lush green hills of Chida, located in southwestern Ethiopia between Dawro and Konta. The region lies within the wider Kaffa area, traditionally associated with the origin of coffee and the famous storey of Kaldi, the shepherd linked to coffee’s discovery. Arrive at your lodge, relax after the journey, and enjoy a spectacular sunset and sundowner overlooking the valley.
Day 2: Wildlife & Lake Bulo
Explore the untouched wilderness of Chebera Churchura by vehicle and on foot. Drive through protected forests, open grasslands, and scenic habitats while looking for African elephants, Cape buffalo, and waterbuck. Visit beautiful Lake Bulo, where you may see hippos in their natural habitat.
The park is also home to servals, greater kudus, colobus monkeys, vervet monkeys, and many other species. Lions and leopards are present but rarely seen. Chebera Churchura is considered one of Ethiopia’s least-disturbed ecosystems and provides an important refuge for elephants and buffalo.
Day 3: Shoshuma & Halala Kela
Take a relaxed game-viewing drive towards Shoshuma and Halala Kela to discover more of the park’s remote wilderness. The park’s varied habitats—including highland and riverine forests, savanna, and bushland—support around 37 larger mammal species and more than 230 bird species.
Look for distinctive birds such as the white-winged cliff chat, banded barbet, wattled ibis, black-headed forest oriole, and thick-billed raven. Enjoy the scenery around a natural pool below an impressive waterfall, with an opportunity for swimming. Return to the lodge and finish the day with another beautiful sunset over the surrounding forest.
Day 4: Chebera Churchura – Jimma – Addis Ababa
After an early breakfast, drive to Jimma Airport for your flight back to Addis Ababa. In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner at a traditional Ethiopian restaurant accompanied by cultural performances and live music representing different Ethiopian communities.
