The Big Five Wildlife of Ethiopia
Nov 2-11 2027
Kevin Dooley is an award-winning Wildlife and Wedding Photographer who grew up in Placitas, New Mexico. At the age of 18, he enlisted into the Navy and served on an aircraft carrier. After he completed his service he returned to New Mexico and opened his own photography studio in Albuquerque which is still running 37 years later. His passion for wildlife photography and Africa, led him to his safari adventures and he eventually opened Idube Photo Safaris. Kevin is a certified FGASA (Field Guide Association of South Africa), Wildlife Guide, a PPA Master Photographer and takes guests from all over the world on amazing photographic safaris in Africa, Alaska, the Amazon, India and the Antarctic. He also teaches wildlife and wedding photography workshops
Kevin Dooley
Endemic Big 5 of Ethiopia Photo Safari
Simien Mountains & Bale Mountains National Parks
GHET-N09
9 Days
Join a remarkable wildlife photography expedition through two of Ethiopia’s most spectacular national parks, specially designed for nature lovers and photographers. Led by experienced wildlife guides and photography-focused expedition leaders, this journey offers unparalleled opportunities to photograph Ethiopia’s most iconic endemic mammals, birds, and breathtaking landscapes.
Unlike the traditional African safari experience, Ethiopia offers an extraordinary diversity of ecosystems ranging from dramatic mountain ranges and vast Afro-alpine plateaus to ancient forests and deep valleys. These unique habitats support an exceptional concentration of endemic wildlife found nowhere else on Earth.
This carefully crafted photography expedition focuses on Ethiopia’s Endemic Big Five: the Ethiopian Wolf, Walia Ibex, Mountain Nyala, Gelada Baboon, and Menelik’s Bushbuck. Combined with stunning landscapes, golden light, and rich cultural heritage, this is a truly rewarding photographic adventure.
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
- Photograph Ethiopia’s Endemic Big Five: Ethiopian Wolf, Walia Ibex, Mountain Nyala, Gelada Baboon, and Menelik’s Bushbuck.
- Explore the dramatic landscapes of the UNESCO-listed Simien Mountains National Park.
- Discover the vast Afro-alpine wilderness of Bale Mountains National Park.
- Enjoy exceptional wildlife photography opportunities with expert guidance.
- Photograph numerous endemic and rare bird species.
- Visit the legendary castles of Gondar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Experience some of Africa’s most spectacular mountain scenery and pristine wilderness.
Day 1: Arrive in Addis Ababa
Upon arrival at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport (ADD), you will be warmly welcomed by your guide and transferred to your hotel.
Founded in 1886 by Emperor Menelik II, Addis Ababa sits at an elevation of approximately 2,500 meters (8,200 feet), making it one of the highest capital cities in the world. The city enjoys a pleasant year-round climate and is home to a fascinating blend of cultures, historic landmarks, museums, and the famous Mercato, one of Africa’s largest open-air markets.
Overnight: Ramada Hotel Addis Ababa (4-Star)
Day 2: Addis Ababa – Gondar – Simien Mountains National Park
This morning, transfer to the airport for your flight to Gondar.
Upon arrival, begin the scenic drive to Simien Mountains National Park. Nothing quite prepares you for the breathtaking scenery awaiting atop this dramatic massif. Towering cliffs plunge over 1,000 meters into the plains below, while jagged peaks, deep valleys, and rugged escarpments create one of Africa’s most spectacular mountain landscapes.
After checking into Simien Lodge, the highest lodge in Africa, and enjoying lunch, spend the afternoon photographing one of Ethiopia’s most iconic endemic mammals—the Gelada Baboon. The rolling grasslands around Sankaber offer excellent opportunities to photograph these fascinating primates in beautiful afternoon light.
Overnight: Simien Lodge, Buyit Ras (3,200m)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerDay 3: Spend time with the Gelada Baboon
Today is dedicated to photographing the remarkable Gelada Baboon.
The grasslands surrounding Sankaber host some of the largest concentrations of Geladas anywhere in Ethiopia. These unique primates are the last surviving species of ancient grazing monkeys and spend much of their day feeding on grasses across the high-altitude plateaus.
Spend the morning photographing large family groups as they forage and interact across the spectacular mountain scenery. Their expressive faces, social behavior, and distinctive red chest patch make them outstanding photographic subjects.
In the afternoon, continue exploring different locations around the lodge, taking advantage of changing light conditions and dramatic mountain backdrops.
Overnight: Simien Lodge, Buyit Ras (3,200m)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerDay 4: Chennek – Walia Ibex & Mountain Nyala
An early departure takes us through some of the most scenic sections of Simien Mountains National Park toward Chennek.
This area offers outstanding opportunities to photograph the critically endangered Walia Ibex, found only in Ethiopia. These magnificent wild goats inhabit the steep cliffs and rocky outcrops that characterize the Simien Mountains.
You may also encounter Mountain Nyala, another Ethiopian endemic and one of Africa’s most elegant antelope species. The dramatic landscapes, combined with early morning light, create exceptional photographic conditions.
After a productive morning in the field, return to the lodge for relaxation and image review.
Later in the afternoon, head back into the park to capture wildlife against the warm golden light of sunset.
Overnight: Simien Lodge, Buyit Ras (3,200m)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerDay 5: Simien Mountains – Gondar – Addis Ababa
After breakfast, drive back to Gondar with scenic stops along the way.
Founded by Emperor Fasilides in 1635, Gondar served as Ethiopia’s royal capital for more than two centuries and is renowned for its remarkable medieval architecture.
Visit the Royal Enclosure, home to several historic castles and palaces, followed by Fasilides’ Bath and the magnificent Debre Birhan Selassie Church, famous for its extraordinary ceiling adorned with angelic frescoes.
Following lunch, transfer to Gondar Airport for your afternoon flight to Addis Ababa.
Overnight: Ramada Hotel Addis Ababa
Meals: Breakfast & LunchDay 6: Addis Ababa – Bale Mountains National Park
This morning, transfer to Addis Ababa Airport for your flight to Goba.
Upon arrival, drive to Bale Mountains National Park, one of Africa’s largest Afro-alpine ecosystems and a globally important biodiversity hotspot.
Continue to Dinsho Headquarters, where your first wildlife photography session begins. The area is home to numerous endemic species, including Menelik’s Bushbuck and Mountain Nyala. The open grasslands and forest edges provide excellent photographic opportunities.
Later, continue through the spectacular mountain landscapes to Bale Mountains Lodge, beautifully located within the pristine Harenna Forest.
Overnight: Bale Mountains Lodge, Harenna Forest
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerDay 7: Sanetti Plateau – Ethiopian Wolf Safari
Today we explore the famous Sanetti Plateau, one of the highest roads in Africa and the stronghold of the endangered Ethiopian Wolf.
This rare and charismatic predator is Africa’s only wolf species and one of the world’s most endangered canids. The open Afro-alpine habitat provides outstanding opportunities to photograph wolves hunting giant mole rats across the plateau.
The region is also rich in endemic birdlife, including the Blue-winged Goose, Rouget’s Rail, and numerous highland specialists.
In the afternoon, enjoy a scenic walk through the beautiful Gaysay Valley, searching for additional wildlife and landscape photography opportunities.
Overnight: Bale Mountains Lodge, Harenna Forest
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerDay 8: Harenna Forest Exploration
Today is devoted to exploring the mysterious Harenna Forest, one of Ethiopia’s most important montane forests.
This unique ecosystem is home to the endemic Bale Monkey, a species found nowhere else on Earth. The forest also offers the possibility of photographing elusive species such as the African Leopard and numerous forest birds.
The combination of towering trees, misty forest atmosphere, and rare wildlife creates an unforgettable photographic experience.
Overnight: Bale Mountains Lodge, Harenna Forest
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerDay 9: Bale Mountains – Addis Ababa – Departure
After breakfast, drive back to Goba Airport via the Sanetti Plateau, providing one final opportunity for wildlife sightings and photography.
Fly to Addis Ababa and enjoy a city tour of Ethiopia’s vibrant capital, including selected cultural and historical highlights.
In the evening, join Grand Holidays Ethiopia Tours for a complimentary farewell dinner featuring traditional Ethiopian cuisine, cultural performances, and local beverages.
Following dinner, transfer to Addis Ababa Bole International Airport for your international departure.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Farewell Dinner
End of Expedition
Your Safari Price
You will be charged for the plan after the admin approves your vendor account
