Addis Ababa in 8 Days for Seniors - Harar Jugol (UNESCO) and traditional hyena feeding
In Collaboration with Vowland Ethiopia tour . Updated on February 13, 2026.
An 8-day guided loop from Addis Ababa visiting Harar’s walled old city and hyena-feeding tradition, wildlife and waterfalls at Awash National Park, and highland wildlife, Sanetti Plateau and Harenna Forest in Bale Mountains National Park. Designed for travellers who prefer comfortable pacing and regular rest breaks.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Vowland Ethiopia tour , inspired by the tour 8 Days Harar, Awash safari and Bale Mountains Trip . Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Harar Jugol (UNESCO) and traditional hyena feeding
- Wildlife, waterfalls and hot springs in Awash National Park
- Sanetti Plateau, Harenna Forest and Bale Mountains wildlife
Itinerary
Day 1
Arrival in Addis Ababa, gentle city introduction with museum visit and Mount Entoto viewpoint. Evening check-in at Metas Hotel.
Arrival & airport pickup
Meet your guide at Bole International Airport and transfer to your hotel in Addis Ababa. Assistance with luggage and check-in as needed.
Tips from local experts:
- Keep your passport and boarding pass handy for immigration and pickup verification.
- If you feel tired after the flight, request a ground-floor or first-floor room to avoid stairs.
- Carry a small bottle of water and any personal medication in your carry-on for the transfer.
City tour: National Museum & Mount Entoto
After a short rest at your hotel, visit the National Museum of Ethiopia (home of 'Lucy') and drive to Mount Entoto for panoramic views over Addis Ababa. The visit includes short, easy walks and seated breaks.
Tips from local experts:
- Wear comfortable, closed shoes for short walks inside the museum and at Entoto; seating is available at both sites.
- Expect light altitude-related fatigue — move at a relaxed pace and use scheduled breaks; bring a light jacket for Entoto as it can be windy.
- The museum has restrooms; if you need step-free access, ask the guide before entering specific display areas.
Hotel check-in & rest
Return to your hotel for check-in and an early rest period to recover from travel and altitude. Time reserved for personal care and light refreshments.
Tips from local experts:
- Ask reception for a quiet room away from elevators and street noise for better rest.
- Hydrate well after arrival; altitude can cause mild dehydration even without exertion.
- If you require any mobility assistance (porter, elevator), request it at reception on arrival.
Overnight: Metas Hotel (Addis Ababa)
Check in and overnight at Metas Hotel in Addis Ababa. Evening at leisure with optional early dinner at the hotel.
Tips from local experts:
- Confirm breakfast time with reception to coordinate the early starts on day 2.
- If you prefer an early wake-up call for tomorrow's transfers, inform reception before sleeping.
- Keep valuables locked in the room safe; the guide can store any excess luggage if required.
Day 2
Domestic flight from Addis to the east, transfer to Harar. Afternoon exploration of Harar Jugol and evening hyena-feeding tradition. Overnight in Harar.
Transfer to airport & domestic flight to Dire Dawa
Early transfer to Bole International Airport for your domestic flight to Dire Dawa (flight time approx. 1 hour). Arrival in Dire Dawa followed by a road transfer to Harar.
Tips from local experts:
- Have your ID/passport and domestic flight e-ticket accessible; domestic security checks can be time-sensitive.
- Bring a light daypack with essentials (hat, water, camera) for the short road transfer to Harar.
- Expect a short drive from Dire Dawa to Harar; request mobility assistance at airports if needed.
Explore Harar Jugol (Old City)
Arrive in Harar and take a guided walk through Harar Jugol — the historic walled city with its narrow alleys, markets and mosques. The guide will keep walking segments short and include seated breaks.
Tips from local experts:
- Wear comfortable, closed shoes for walking on uneven cobbled streets and bring a hat for sun protection.
- Respect local customs: Harar is a conservative city — dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered) when visiting religious sites.
- Carry small change in local currency for modest purchases at the market; many small vendors are cash-only.
Evening: Traditional hyena feeding demonstration
Attend the well-known hyena-feeding tradition with the local 'hyena man'. The event involves a short evening transfer from the hotel and standing/viewing time; seating arranged when possible.
Tips from local experts:
- The hyena feeding is an outdoor evening activity — wear a warm layer and comfortable shoes for short standing periods.
- Bring a small flashlight for the walk back to the vehicle; follow the guide's instructions and keep a respectful distance from the animals.
- Carry some small-denomination local cash if you wish to thank or tip the local handler; ask the guide for guidance.
Overnight: Winta Hotel, Harar
Return to Winta Hotel for check-in and overnight. Evening at leisure to rest after the day's transfers and walks.
Tips from local experts:
- Request a ground- or first-floor room if stairs are a concern; confirm elevator availability at reception.
- Settle any laundry or room-service needs in the evening to avoid delays the next morning.
- Keep a pen and local contact numbers handy in the room in case you need to reach the guide at night.
Day 3
After breakfast depart Harar and drive to Awash National Park with stops en route. Arrive late afternoon and short game drive if time permits. Overnight near the park.
Departure: Harar to Awash National Park (long drive)
Breakfast and early departure for the scenic but lengthy drive toward Awash National Park (approx. 6–7 hours). Regular rest stops and scenic viewpoints included; the guide will pace the drive for comfort.
Tips from local experts:
- Bring motion-sickness medication if you are prone to travel sickness; request frequent stops for comfort.
- Carry a sun hat and water — roadside stops can be exposed; the guide will schedule shaded breaks when possible.
- Keep essential items (medication, phone, snacks) in a small daybag within easy reach during the drive.
Afternoon arrival & introductory game drive
Arrive at Awash area and after check-in enjoy a short late-afternoon game drive to begin wildlife viewing and to see the landscape as temperatures cool.
Tips from local experts:
- Evening game drives can be cooler — bring a warm layer and wear comfortable walking shoes.
- Binoculars are helpful for bird and distant wildlife viewing; keep them handy before you disembark.
- Follow the guide's safety briefing on leaving the vehicle; stay seated unless directed otherwise.
Buffer / arrival formalities
Time allocated for lodge check-in, short rest and freshening up after travel before dinner.
Tips from local experts:
- Confirm wake-up time and breakfast schedule with lodge staff for early starts the next day.
- Ask the lodge about available seating and any mobility assistance for evening movement.
- Keep any valuables secured in your room safe while on game drives.
Overnight: Genet Hotel (Awash area)
Overnight stay at Genet Hotel or a comparable property close to Awash National Park.
Tips from local experts:
- Request a room on the ground floor if stairs or long corridors are difficult.
- Check dinner times and any dietary requirements with the lodge staff on arrival.
- Keep a small torch by the bedside — power outages can occur in remote areas.
Day 4
Full day exploring Awash National Park: morning and afternoon game drives, visit Awash Falls and hot springs. Overnight near the park.
Morning game drive in Awash National Park
Early-morning game drive to see mammals and active birdlife. Drives are done in a land cruiser with a guide; walking segments are short and optional.
Tips from local experts:
- Morning drives are cold — wear layered clothing and a warm hat for early starts.
- Bring binoculars and a camera with a zoom lens for bird and distant-animal photography.
- Carry small snacks and water; the guide will schedule a mid-drive comfort stop.
Visit Awash Falls and river gorge walk
Drive to the scenic Awash Falls and take a short, guided walk to view the gorge and waterfall. The walk is moderate with some stone steps; pace and distance will be adapted for guests.
Tips from local experts:
- Wear firm-soled shoes for the short gorge walk and be cautious on wet or uneven stone steps.
- Bring a light rain layer in case of spray near the falls and use sun protection for exposed sections.
- Follow the guide's path to avoid loose edges and respect any fenced or restricted areas.
Afternoon: hot springs and relaxed birdwatching
Visit the hot springs area for a short, gentle walk and relaxed birdwatching along the Awash River banks; afternoon window for rest at the lodge follows.
Tips from local experts:
- The hot springs area can be warm and steamy — maintain a safe distance from actively steaming vents.
- Carry insect repellent for riverbank areas, especially in the late afternoon.
- Allow time to rest mid-afternoon to avoid fatigue from continuous outdoor activity.
Overnight: Gente Hotel (Awash area)
Return to your lodge, freshen up and overnight at Gente Hotel or similar accommodation close to the park.
Tips from local experts:
- Confirm breakfast time for the early transfer on day 5 before sleep.
- If you need a bedside lamp or extra blankets, request them at reception when you return.
- Lock away cameras and electronics if you plan to leave them in the room during evening excursions.
Day 5
Scenic but long drive from Awash region to Bale Mountains (Goba area). Evening arrival and lodge check-in with alpine scenery.
Depart Awash for Bale Mountains (long drive)
After breakfast depart for the drive to Bale Mountains region (approx. 7–8 hours). Frequent rest stops and lunch en route; route includes varied road conditions and changing scenery.
Tips from local experts:
- This is one of the longest driving days — bring a cushion for added seat comfort and motion-sickness remedies if needed.
- Carry a light sweater; temperatures will drop as you gain elevation approaching Bale.
- Plan restroom breaks at main towns en route; keep small change for roadside stops and snacks.
Arrival and short orientation in Goba
Arrive in Goba / Bale region, short orientation walk near the lodge and time to acclimatize to higher altitude.
Tips from local experts:
- Acclimatize slowly at arrival — limit exertion the first hour and hydrate frequently.
- Request a room on a lower floor if stairs are difficult; ask lodge staff for assistance with luggage.
- If you experience noticeable breathlessness or headache, inform the guide immediately.
Overnight: Goba Wabe Shebele Hotel
Check in and overnight at Goba Wabe Shebele Hotel (or similar), located in the Goba area close to Bale Mountains National Park.
Tips from local experts:
- Confirm dinner time and any special dietary needs on arrival to ensure timely service.
- Keep a warm night layer available as nights at high altitude can be chilly.
- Ask reception about accessible routes to the dining area if mobility is a concern.
Day 6
Full day exploring Bale Mountains National Park: Sanetti Plateau, wildlife viewing and alpine meadows. Overnight in Goba.
Sanetti Plateau excursion and wildlife viewing
Early departure to Sanetti Plateau for wildlife viewing (possible sightings: mountain nyala, Ethiopian wolf in higher areas) and short guided walks across alpine meadows. Walks will be adapted for comfort and altitude.
Tips from local experts:
- Sanetti Plateau is high altitude; wear layered clothing, sunscreen and a warm hat for wind exposure.
- Pace your walks conservatively — short, frequent rests reduce altitude strain; notify your guide of any breathlessness.
- Bring snacks and water in a small daypack; the guide will advise on safe areas for brief stops and photography.
Return to lodge & rest
Return to the lodge in Goba for rest, freshening up and dinner after a full day outdoors.
Tips from local experts:
- After a long day at altitude, keep activity minimal and hydrate well before sleeping.
- Use the evening to dry or air camera equipment and boots; ask staff where to store gear safely.
- If you feel unwell, report symptoms (headache, nausea) to the guide or lodge staff immediately.
Overnight: Goba Wube Shebele Hotel
Overnight return at Goba Wube Shebele Hotel (or comparable property) in preparation for Harenna Forest excursion.
Tips from local experts:
- Confirm wake-up and breakfast time for the next day's forest excursion with reception.
- Ensure any needed charging of equipment is arranged before bedtime, as plugs may be limited.
- Store valuables in the room safe; staff can advise on secure storage for larger items.
Day 7
Guided excursion into Harenna Forest with birding and wildlife observation. Return to Bale Mountains area for evening rest.
Excursion to Harenna Forest
Depart for a guided visit to Harenna Forest to explore the lush montane environment, short forest walks and birdwatching. Trail selections will be gentle with regular rest opportunities.
Tips from local experts:
- Wear long sleeves and long trousers to reduce insect bites in forested areas; closed shoes with grip are recommended.
- Bring insect repellent and any allergy medication; shaded rest spots are limited in some forest sections.
- Carry a compact rain layer — forest weather can change quickly; the guide will adapt the route for comfort.
Return to Bale Mountains / Goba & relax
Return drive to Goba with time to rest at the lodge and optional short local walk in the village vicinity.
Tips from local experts:
- Allow time to sit and rest after forest walks; avoid strenuous activity for the remainder of the day.
- If you have mobility concerns, request assistance for transfers between vehicle and lodge.
- Check with the guide about simple local shopping options (snacks, essentials) if you need supplies.
Overnight: Goba Wube Shebele Hotel
Final night in Goba with dinner and overnight at Goba Wube Shebele Hotel.
Tips from local experts:
- Confirm your transport details and flight time for the next day with the guide before sleeping.
- Pack a small carry bag for the morning flight with essentials and any medication.
- Leave any heavy luggage to be loaded the night before to ease the morning departure.
Day 8
Transfer to Robe/Goba airstrip for the domestic flight to Addis Ababa. Farewell dinner in Addis and hotel overnight.
Transfer to Robe (Goba) airstrip and domestic flight to Addis Ababa
After breakfast drive to the nearby Robe/Goba airstrip for your flight to Addis Ababa. Arrival in Addis followed by transfer to your hotel.
Tips from local experts:
- Have your ID and tickets readily available for the domestic flight check-in process.
- Allow extra time for the morning transfer to the airstrip; rural airstrips often have simplified check-in procedures.
- If you require assistance with boarding or carrying luggage, advise the guide the night before.
Farewell in Addis Ababa & evening at leisure
Arrive in Addis Ababa, check into Metas Hotel, and enjoy a farewell dinner arranged by your guide. Evening is relaxed to prepare for departure the next day.
Tips from local experts:
- Notify the guide of any dietary restrictions before dinner so the restaurant can accommodate you.
- Request a table in a quieter dining area if you prefer reduced noise and easier conversation.
- Confirm transport times and any final luggage handling with the guide before the end of the evening.
Overnight: Metas Hotel (Addis Ababa)
Final overnight at Metas Hotel in Addis Ababa. Prepare personal items and departure arrangements for the following day.
Tips from local experts:
- Confirm your airport transfer time with reception and keep your passport accessible for departure.
- Pack any carry-on items you will need for the flight separately (medication, documents, valuables).
- If you require a late checkout or luggage storage, request this before bed to ensure availability.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 8 |
| Highlights | 3 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Seniors |
| Transfers | 5 |
| Restaurants | 1 |
| Total Activities | 23 |
| Total Places | 23 |
| Activities Types | Transfer, Culture, Break, Hotel, Experience, Outdoor, Attraction, Meal |
