Emerging destinations of Ethiopia
The Dine for Ethiopia project, launched in 2021, aims to develop sustainable ecotourism. Among its initiatives, the following ecotourism villages have become some of the most popular destinations. If you are looking to create a luxury Ethiopia tour package with one of the best tour companies in Ethiopia, we are delighted to offer you an exceptional bird and wildlife tour experience.
These lodges are located in prime natural spots, providing travelers with the opportunity to explore nearby attractions while enjoying luxurious facilities. The architecture of the lodges is inspired by both modern and traditional designs, reflecting and celebrating the local cultures.
Beynouna Village
This luxury resort is located 180 km east of the capital, in Metehara town. It offers a strategic gateway to both Awash National Park and Asebot National Park, which are renowned for their rich wildlife and birdlife. The lodge is built next to Lake Beseka, a haven for bird enthusiasts, where you can observe more than 200 species of birds, depending on the season.
This village promotes sustainable tourism, benefiting the local Keryu and Afar communities. The luxury lodge provides both opulent villas and traditional bungalows. It is equipped with top-tier facilities, including a luxury spa, swimming pool, tennis court, football field, and breathtaking views of Lake Beseka. Guests can also enjoy activities like cycling in lush green gardens and watching movies in indoor and outdoor cinemas.
If you’re eager to experience a bird-watching tour, Aone Ethiopia Tours can arrange a tailored Ethiopia holiday package for you. This includes luxury transportation, lodge bookings, and guided wildlife tours in the vicinity. Additionally, you can explore a 10-hectare farm nearby, home to livestock such as camels, horses, and cows, as well as fruit farms featuring papaya and banana plantations.
Chebera Elephants Lodge
This natural acoustic lodge, also known as the Elephant’s Paw Lodge, is located 555 km southwest of Addis Ababa in the Konta Zone. The lodge is situated within the Chebera Churchura Elephant Sanctuary, providing an excellent opportunity to observe indigenous elephants in their natural habitat. The park’s lush green forests also host a variety of wildlife, including members of the Big Five—lions, elephants, buffalos, and leopards—as well as a rich birdlife. This sanctuary is a paradise for nature lovers.
The lodge features a museum that showcases cultural artifacts passed down through generations, offering visitors a unique glimpse into local traditions. Chebera Churchura National Park is among the richest areas in Ethiopia for observing wild elephants and diverse bird species. Its majestic forests offer unparalleled biodiversity, while stunning waterfalls and crystal-clear lakes make the park a true haven on earth.
For panoramic views of the park, visitors can ascend the elevated observation deck, which provides breathtaking sights of the sanctuary’s surroundings. Moreover, the lodge plays a significant role in supporting the local community by operating its own hospital to serve nearby residents.
Halala Kella Lodge
Nestled in the southwest of Ethiopia, 420 km from Addis Ababa in the Dawro Zone, this lodge is designed for travelers seeking nature, history, and culture. The lodge is part of the Koysha Tourism Project and is situated next to the man-made lake created by the Gelgel Gibe III Dam. It provides visitors with access to Chebera Churchura National Park and the vibrant cultural heritage of the Dawro and Tsera tribes.
The name Halala Kella is derived from the third king of Dawro, Halala, and the historic fortified rock wall (Kella) constructed by the Dawro Kingdom in the 16th century. The lodge’s architecture draws inspiration from this historic wall. The temperature in the area ranges from 25°C to 38°C, and the lodge’s high ceilings provide excellent ventilation, ensuring comfort during the warmer months.
Halala Kella Lodge is perched atop a mountain, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains. The lodge also features a cliff side viewpoint, providing unparalleled vistas. Guests can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including boat trips on the lake during stunning sunsets, morning fishing excursions, and cycling.
To reach the lodge, visitors have two options: an eight-hour drive from Addis Ababa or a flight to Arbaminch, which serves as the gateway to the Omo Valley tour, followed by a 170 km drive.
Gorgora Lodge
Gorgora is a small peninsula located on the northern shore of Lake Tana, the largest lake in Ethiopia. This natural wonder is a harmonious blend of rich birdlife, vibrant cultures, and historical attractions. In 2024, a luxury eco-resort was opened in the area, providing excellent facilities for visitors.
Gorgora is surrounded by breathtaking mountain views. Travelers can reach the lodge through various routes: by car from Gondar town or by car and boat from Bahir Dar city. Both Gondar and Bahir Dar are renowned for their historical tours, offering rich insights into Ethiopia’s heritage.
The luxury resort in Gorgora offers a range of indoor and outdoor activities, including a spa, swimming, camping sites, fishing, and visits to nearby fruit farms. It’s an ideal destination for those seeking relaxation, adventure, and cultural experiences.
Wenchi Community village: – is also now became the closest destination with cater lake which provide stunning landscape with best hiking trails.
Aone Ethiopia Tours offers luxury tour packages to Ethiopia. The destinations mentioned above can be combined with various Ethiopian tour packages, such as Omo Valley cultural tours and historical tour packages. Let us know your dream destinations in Ethiopia, and we will create a tailored itinerary just for you!