Wildlife of Ethiopia
Ethiopian Wolf
The endemic Ethiopian Wolf is an endangered species, with less than 600 remaining in the wild today.
Locally known as Key Kebero, meaning red jackal, Ethiopian wolves have long legs, a long, pointed muzzle and weigh between 11 kg and 19 kg.
They are a distinctive red colour with paler under parts and a black bushy tail. The Ethiopian wolf lives in the Bale Mountains, Arsi Mountains, Borena Saiynt, and the Simien Mountains of Ethiopia.
It is also possible to see this amazing animal in the community conservation areas in Menz-Guassa and Abuna Yoseph.
Gelada Monkey
Although often mistakenly called Gelada Baboons, these monkeys actually belong to a separate genus and are not baboons.
They are the last surviving species of grass-grazing primates. The Gelada Monkey can be easily recognised by the heart-shaped patches of skin on the chest, which blaze a bright crimson colour. This trait has given them the nickname the Bleeding Heart Monkey.
Geladas are endemic to the Ethiopian highlands, with populations being found by the Awash River, Blue Nile River, and south of the Tekeze River. However, the Simien Mountains host the largest concentration of Geladas in the country.
The Walia Ibex
The Walia Ibex lives in very steep, rocky cliff areas between 2,500 and 4,500 meters high and almost exclusively in the northern escarpment in the Simien Mountains National Park.
Numbers remain small, with only around 500 Ibex left alive today. Our expert trekking guides know the Simien Mountains like the back of their hand, so know just where to find them.
If you're camping in the Simiens, the best campsite to see Walia is the Chennek campsite, the last stop on the primary escarpment in the Simien Mountains.
Hyenas
Spotted Hyenas can be found in Ethiopia, particularly in Harar where the famous 'Hyena Men' can be found feeding the animals at night.
The practice has historic routes in Ethiopia, and for a 100 Birr, the Hyena Men will show you how to feed the hyenas yourself.
Hippos and Crocodiles
Hippos and crocs are found lurking in the various lakes of Ethiopia.
Any boat trip onto Lakes Tana, Chamo or Awassa are all but guaranteed to feature an appearance from a couple of hippos, bathing in the distance.
Lake Chamo is also the home to giant Crocodiles, so we recommend you row row row your boat!
Hippo in Lake Chamo.
Birds
Ethiopia is home to a plethora of bird life, too many to list here.
We've partnered with some of the best birding guides in the country, so you can get the most out of your time in Ethiopia.
Of course, you don't have to be an experienced bird-watcher to marvel at the flamboyance of flamingos in Lake Abijatta or the grace of Tawny Eagles soaring in the thermals of the Simien Mountains...people often leave Ethiopia with a new appreciation for bird life.
Brilliant says
Ethiopia is famous for its biodiversity. No matter which tour you're interested in, there'll be ample opportunity to spot a range of incredible animals. If you have particular critters in mind, our expert bookings team can help craft your itinerary to include all the right stops.
Discover Ethiopian Wildlife on these Trips
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