Alpha Ethiopia Tours
Eastern Ethiopia
Harar - The City of Peace
The historic city of Harar, founded in the 16th century, is a walled city and holds the distinction of being the fourth holiest city in the Islamic world. Renowned as the “City of Peace”, Harar is celebrated for its long-standing tradition of religious tolerance, where Muslims and Christians have coexisted harmoniously for centuries.
Harar is also famous for its unique and captivating tradition of feeding hyenas. Each night, the town’s “Hyena Man” draws hyenas from the surrounding areas, a spectacle that has become a symbol of the city and a popular attraction for visitors.
Awash National Park
Awash National Park is undoubtedly the most-visited park in Ethiopia, attracting travelers with its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and abundant birdlife.
Nomadic tribes also traverse the park, seeking fresh grazing for their camels, adding a cultural dimension to the natural scenery.
The Awash River runs through the park, and the Awash Falls provide a breathtaking backdrop for wildlife spotting.
At the northern end, the Filwoha hot springs offer visitors a chance to relax in naturally bubbling therapeutic waters.
Moving south, the rim of Fantale Crater presents sweeping panoramic views, perfect for photography and appreciating the park’s dramatic terrain.
Bale Mountains & Sof Omar Caves
The Bale Mountains are among Ethiopia’s premier destinations for wildlife enthusiasts. This region is home to some of the country’s most unique endemic species, including the Ethiopian wolf—the rarest canid in the world—and the elegant mountain nyala.
Birdwatchers will find the Bale Mountains a true paradise, with over 250 species recorded within the park boundaries, 16 of which are endemic to Ethiopia.
The Sanetti Plateau is particularly famous for spotting the Ethiopian wolf, while the Harenna Forest, a dense and humid woodland, offers rich opportunities to observe both flora and fauna in their natural habitat.
Nearby lie the Sof Omar Caves, said to be the largest cave system in Africa, stretching 15.1 km (9.5 miles). The Web River flows through the entire network, adding to the dramatic scenery. Among the caves’ most breathtaking features are the towering limestone pillars, especially those in the renowned Chamber of Columns. Beyond their natural beauty, the Sof Omar Caves serve as a significant spiritual center, respected in both Islamic and local animist traditions, making them a site of cultural as well as geological importance.