Discover Ethiopia's Avian Wonders

Home to 30 species found nowhere else on Earth

Birding in Ethiopia

A Paradise for Bird Enthusiasts

Ethiopia is one of Africa's premier birding destinations, home to over 860 bird species including 30 endemic species found nowhere else on Earth. Our bird watching tours are designed by expert ornithologists to maximize your chances of spotting rare and beautiful birds in their natural habitats.

Ethiopian endemic bird species
The stunning Rouget's Rail - an Ethiopian endemic
Bale Mountains highland forest
Highland forest habitat
Rift Valley wetlands
Wetland ecosystem

From the highland forests of Bale Mountains to the wetlands of the Rift Valley lakes, Ethiopia offers diverse ecosystems that support an incredible variety of avian life. Our knowledgeable guides will help you identify species and understand their behaviors.

860+
Bird Species
30
Endemic Species
12+
Key Birding Sites

Top Birding Hotspots

Explore Ethiopia's premier bird watching locations

Bale Mountains National Park Birding
Bale Mountains

Bale Mountains National Park

Home to over 280 bird species including 6 Ethiopian endemics. The Harenna Forest is particularly rich in birdlife.

Key Species:

  • Rouget's Rail
  • Abyssinian Catbird
  • Wattled Ibis
  • Blue-winged Goose
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Awash National Park Birding
Awash National Park

Awash National Park

Diverse habitats from savanna to riverine forest support over 450 bird species, including many raptors and waterbirds.

Key Species:

  • Somali Ostrich
  • Yellow-breasted Barbet
  • Carmine Bee-eater
  • Lappet-faced Vulture
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Lake Awassa Birding
Lake Awassa

Lake Awassa

One of Ethiopia's best sites for waterbirds, with excellent viewing opportunities along the lake shore.

Key Species:

  • African Pygmy Goose
  • Lesser Jacana
  • African Fish Eagle
  • Malachite Kingfisher
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Simien Mountains Birding
Simien Mountains

Simien Mountains

High-altitude species thrive in this dramatic landscape, with spectacular scenery and unique wildlife.

Key Species:

  • Thick-billed Raven
  • Wattled Ibis
  • Lammergeier
  • White-collared Pigeon
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Bird Watching Tours

Expertly guided tours for all levels of birders

Bale Mountains Birding Tour

Bale Mountains Birding (3 Days)

Highlights:

  • Search for 6 Ethiopian endemic species
  • Explore Harenna Forest and Sanetti Plateau
  • Expert birding guide with 10+ years experience
  • Small group size (max 6 participants)
Awash National Park Birding Tour

Awash National Park (2 Days)

Highlights:

  • Over 200 bird species possible
  • Excellent raptor viewing
  • Visit Awash Falls and hot springs
  • Comfortable lodge accommodation
Ethiopian Endemics Birding Tour

Ethiopian Endemics (10 Days)

Highlights:

  • Target all 30 Ethiopian endemic species
  • Visit Bale, Awash, and Rift Valley lakes
  • Led by professional ornithologist guide
  • Comprehensive checklist provided
Southern Ethiopia Birding Tour

Southern Ethiopia Birding (8 Days)

Highlights:

  • Explore diverse habitats from forests to savanna
  • Target specialty species of southern Ethiopia
  • Visit Nechisar and Mago National Parks
  • Cultural encounters with local tribes
Bird Photography Workshop Tour
New

Bird Photography Workshop (7 Days)

Highlights:

  • Led by professional wildlife photographer
  • Small group size (max 4 participants)
  • Special hides for close-up photography
  • Post-processing instruction included
Rare & Endangered Species Birding Tour

Rare & Endangered Species (12 Days)

Highlights:

  • Focus on Ethiopia's rarest bird species
  • Visit remote locations rarely birded
  • Support conservation efforts
  • Includes pre-tour research materials

Best Time for Bird Watching

Plan your trip for optimal birding conditions

November - February

Dry Season

Best for: General birding, migrants, comfortable temperatures

  • European migrants present
  • Excellent visibility with less vegetation
  • Pleasant temperatures in highlands
  • Best time for Danakil Depression

March - May

Spring Season

Best for: Breeding birds, wildflowers, fewer tourists

  • Breeding plumage at its best
  • Lush vegetation and wildflowers
  • Some migratory species still present
  • Good for photography

June - October

Rainy Season

Best for: Resident species, green landscapes, lower prices

  • Fewer birding tourists
  • Lush green landscapes
  • Accommodation discounts available
  • Good for endemic species

Ethiopian Bird Checklist

Download our comprehensive birding checklist

Ethiopian Bird Checklist Cover

Plan Your Birding Adventure

Our detailed checklist includes all 860+ bird species recorded in Ethiopia, with special notation for the 30 endemic species. The checklist is organized by family and includes seasonal occurrence information to help you plan your trip.

Download the checklist to start planning which species you hope to see, or bring it with you to track your sightings during your tour.

Birding Equipment Recommendations

What to bring for your Ethiopian birding adventure

Optics

  • Binoculars (8x42 or 10x42 recommended)
  • Spotting scope (for open habitats)
  • Lens cleaning kit
  • Rain covers for optics

Photography

  • DSLR or mirrorless camera
  • Telephoto lens (300mm minimum)
  • Extra batteries and memory cards
  • Bean bag or lightweight tripod

Field Guides

  • Birds of Ethiopia and Eritrea (Redman et al.)
  • Collins Bird Guide (for European migrants)
  • Notebook and waterproof pen
  • Our provided checklist

Clothing & Gear

  • Neutral-colored clothing
  • Layered clothing for varying altitudes
  • Sturdy walking shoes
  • Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)

Ready for Your Ethiopian Birding Adventure?

Contact our birding specialists to plan your perfect tour

Birding Assistant

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