Bird Watching
Experience exceptional bird watching on the Awash-Doho-Bilen-Allideghe route, renowned for its impressive bird diversity with over 483 species. This tour showcases a variety of terrestrial and wetland birds, making it a premier destination for bird enthusiasts. You’ll also have the chance to spot four giant birds, including ostriches, Kori bustards, Arabian bustards, African ground hornbills, and secretary birds. The distance covered can range from 0 to 43 km, whether by walk or drive, with a total travel distance of up to 56 km.
When talking about bird watching tourism in Ethiopia, the Middle Rift Valley of Awash National Park, Doho area, Bilen site and Allideghe-Assebot National Park should stand first with their bird diversity, with more than 484 species.
These areas are adjoining sites of vast land and have all habitat types including the highland Ankober area that accommodates Ankober Serine. Bush, thicket, woodland, open grassland, rocky area, wetlands, open waters, rivers, gorges and mountainous area is rich in both aquatic and terrestrial birds. The area still deserves as the prominent birding site in the country and also popular globally.
Doho Lodge being in the center can serve as base site for taking accommodation with its refreshing World Class Hot Spring Pools of private and communal. Considering Doho Lodge as resting site, it is possible to assess Awash National Park in the South, Bilen and Allideghe-Assebote in the North as one birding route. As being involving in wildlife conservation, and bird watching is our priority job, we strongly advice that the central and Northern part of Awash National Park still preserves quite many species and would continue serving as potential birding site in Ethiopia.
In general, Awash area is unique in such a way that many species are listed in a family when compared to other bird sites, like seven species of bustards, 20 species of weavers, 13 species of starlings, 9 species of shrikes, 26 species of warbles, 9 species of barbets, 10 species of cuckoos and coucals, 14 species of doves and pigeons, 38 species of vultures, eagles and hawks, and a variety of herons, cormorants, ducks, kingfishers, etc. are common to see. It is a lovely place to do evening and morning bird watching.
Giant Bird Watching at Allideghe Wildlife Area
Seek out the magnificent four giant bird species—Kori Bustard, Arabian Bustard, Secretary Bird, and Ground Hornbill—at Allideghe Wildlife Area. This stunning location offers a prime opportunity to observe these impressive birds in their natural habitat, making it a must-visit for avid birdwatchers. Experience the thrill of spotting these remarkable species in a beautiful and diverse ecosystem!
Below are pictures of the Arabian Bustard and the four giant species found at Allideghe Wildlife Area, including the Kori Bustard, Secretary Bird, and Ground Hornbill. Additionally, you’ll see the Black-Chested Snake Eagle and the Secretary Bird hunting rodents in Awash National Park, along with the graceful Goliath Heron perched by the Awash River—truly a highlight of the park!
Secretary Bird
Arabian Bustard
Kori Bustard
Ostrich
Black Chested Snake-Eagle
Gracefull Goliath
In conclusion, the diverse birdlife in the Awash National Park and Allideghe Wildlife Area offers an extraordinary experience for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts alike. With the chance to observe majestic species such as the Arabian Bustard, Kori Bustard, Secretary Bird, Ground Hornbill, Black-Chested Snake Eagle, and the elegant Goliath Heron, these regions provide a unique opportunity to connect with Ethiopia’s rich avian diversity. Whether you’re an avid birder or a casual visitor, the breathtaking sights and sounds of these incredible birds make a visit to Doho Lodge and its surroundings truly unforgettable.