"Highlanders canter along century-old paths on their richly caparisoned horses" - Lonely Planet
Adaba-Dodola to Bale Mountains National Park by Horse
Discover the Bale Mountains and surrounding areas on horseback by riding in traditional style on local horses. Begin your journey at 2,400m through various ecosystems and dramatic scenery to the Tulu Dimtu Mountain, the second highest peak in Ethiopia (4,377m). The vegetation changes gradually as you leave the scattered traditional villages of the Adaba-Dodola Ecotourism Sites and enter the Bale Mountains National Park. Wildlife that can be seen along the way includes black-and-white colobus monkey, Ethiopian wolf, an abundance of rodents, Starck’s hare, and birds of prey. An average day of trekking takes roughly five to seven hours.
The first campsite, Changiti, is located on the forest’s edge, 15km from Dodola. Here you will pick up the horses for the first leg of your trip. Both riding and packhorses are changed at every destination in order to distribute income to local residents.
The route can be tailored to the time restrictions, needs and interests of our visitors. Be aware that in all cases arrangements must be made in advance with registered guides. Information for the Adaba-Dodola tour guide office can be found in the directory.