Awash Oromia

Awash National Park

Volcanoes, Hot Springs & The Beisa Oryx of the Rift Valley

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About Awash National Park

Welcome to Awash National Park, a landscape of volcanic badlands, river gorges, and geothermal wonders located just 4 hours from Addis Ababa. This is one of Ethiopia's oldest national parks, established in 1966, and one of its most accessible. The Awash River carves a dramatic 300-meter-deep canyon through the park, creating waterfalls and pools. You will see Beisa oryx, Soemmerring's gazelle, gerenuk, and the endemic Swayne's hartebeest. You will hike to the rim of the extinct Fantale Volcano. And you will soak in the Filwoha Hot Springs, natural geothermal pools surrounded by palm trees. At Monpays Tours, we offer game drives, hiking, and camping in this under-visited gem. Celebrate 20 years with a safari just a short drive from the capital.

What Makes It Special

Safari for Beisa oryx, Swayne's hartebeest, and Soemmerring's gazelle
Stand at the edge of the Awash River Gorge and watch the waterfalls
Soak in the Filwoha Hot Springs, natural geothermal pools at 70°C (cooled to bathing temperature)
Hike to the rim of Fantale Volcano (2,007 meters) and peer into the extinct crater
Spot over 450 bird species, including the endemic Arabian bustard
Stay at Bilen Lodge, a community-run Afar-style lodge inside the park
Swim in the Awash River (safe in dry season – watch for crocodiles)

Top Attractions

Awash River Gorge & Falls – A 300-meter-deep canyon with waterfalls, accessible from the main road

Filwoha Hot Springs – Geothermal pools at the southern edge of the park

Fantale Volcano – An extinct volcano with a crater you can hike into

Bilen Lodge – Community-run Afar-style lodge, the best place to stay

The Rift Valley Escarpment – Dramatic cliffs overlooking the park

The Oryx Viewpoint – A reliable spot for Beisa oryx at sunrise

The Awash River – Hippos, crocodiles, and waterbirds along its banks

Best Time to Visit

October to March (Dry season – excellent wildlife viewing, animals gather at water). April to May (Small rains – the landscape is green and beautiful). June to September (Hot and dry – wildlife viewing is excellent but temperatures exceed 40°C/104°F).

Activities

Morning and afternoon game drives (the best time for wildlife) Hiking to the rim of Fantale Volcano (1–2 hours) Swimming in Filwoha Hot Springs (bring a swimsuit) Birdwatching (over 450 species – ask for a birding guide) Walking safari with a park scout (for the adventurous) Picnic lunch at the Awash River Falls Stargazing from Bilen Lodge (no light pollution)

Getting There

By road from Addis Ababa. Awash National Park is located approximately 225 kilometers east of the capital, a 4–5 hour drive on a paved highway. A 4x4 vehicle is recommended for game drives inside the park (the roads are rough). Monpays Tours arranges private 4x4 transfers.

Accommodation

Unique/Eco: Bilen Lodge – Traditional Afar-style huts inside the park, community-run, excellent food, solar power. The only accommodation inside the park. Highly recommended.
Mid-range: Awash Falls Lodge – Located just outside the park boundary, swimming pool, restaurant, comfortable rooms.
Camping: Permitted inside the park (must bring all gear). A park scout is mandatory.

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