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| Gravy’s and Burchell’s Zebra Borana National Park |
Discover the Untamed Beauty of Borana - A Wildlife Lover's Paradise
Endemic Bird Species: Borana is home to numerous bird species, many of which are endemic to the region. Birdwatchers will delight in spotting rare and colourful birds in their natural habitat.
Bird Species (280 recorded): Endemic and endangered species such as the Ethiopian bushcrow, white-tailed swallow, Prince Ruspoli’s turaco, and black fronted spurfowl.
Mammals:
Plains zebras and the endangered Grevy’s zebras Lesser kudus, greater kudus, black-backed jackals, Beisa oryxes, gerenuks, warthogs, Soemmerring’s gazelles, and Grant’s gazelles
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| Spur-winged Lapwing (also known as Spur-winged Plover) |
Unforgettable Adventures Await
Borana National Park, established
in 2005 E.C., is located in the southern region of Ethiopia. It lies
approximately 570 to 770 kilometres from Addis Ababa, along the road to Moyale.
The park is divided into five conservation blocks: Yabello, Saarite, Dire Dida
Soda, Danbala Dibayu, and Gammedo Mountain.
The park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including large populations of Grévy’s and Burchell’s zebras, Grant’s gazelle, cheetah, leopard, gerenuk, Beisa oryx, greater kudu, lesser kudu, ostrich, and various other mammals. Additionally, Prince Ruspoli’s Turaco, found in the Arero forest, is an endemic bird species unique to Ethiopia.
Nestled in the heart of southern Ethiopia, Borana National Park is a hidden gem that offers a unique glimpse into the country's rich biodiversity and cultural heritage. This vast expanse of wilderness, spanning over 3731 square kilometres, is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Borana National Park is renowned for its diverse ecosystem, which supports a wide range of wildlife. One of the park's most iconic inhabitants is the endangered Grevy's zebra, critically important to the region's ecological balance. Visitors may also encounter other fascinating creatures such as:
Diverse Mammalian Fauna: The Park’s diverse mammalian fauna includes various antelope species, hyenas, and wild dogs.
Immerse yourself in the Culture of the Oromo Borana People Beyond its natural beauty, Borana National Park offers a unique cultural experience. The Oromo Borana people, who have inhabited the region for centuries, have a deep connection to the land and its wildlife. Through guided tours and cultural exchanges, visitors can learn about their traditions, customs, and nomadic lifestyle.
Borana National Park offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy:
Game Drives: Embark on
thrilling game drives to spot wildlife in their natural habitat. Experienced
guides will share insights into the park's ecology and wildlife.
Bird
Watching: Explore the park's diverse birdlife through guided bird-watching
excursions. Binoculars and field guides are essential for identifying the many
species that call Borana home.
Hiking
and Trekking: Discover hidden trails and breathtaking landscapes on foot.
Hiking and trekking opportunities cater to all fitness levels, from strolls to
challenging treks.
Tasting
Local Cuisine: Savor the flavours of authentic Oromo Borana cuisine, which
often features locally sourced ingredients and traditional cooking methods.
Cultural
Tours: Immerse yourself in the rich culture of the Oromo Borana people
through guided cultural tours.
Plan Your Visit
To make the most of your visit to Borana
National Park, consider the following tips:
Best
Time to Visit: The dry season from [Month] to [Month], is the ideal time to
visit. The weather is pleasant, and wildlife is more easily spotted.
Accommodation: A variety of
accommodation options are available, ranging from tented camps to luxury
lodges.
Essential Gear: Pack comfortable clothing, sturdy footwear, sunscreen, a hat, and insect repellent
Respect
the Environment: Adhere to park rules and regulations to protect the
delicate ecosystem.
By visiting Borana National Park, you can contribute to
conservation efforts and support the local community.
Immerse yourself in the beauty of this
unspoiled wilderness and create unforgettable memories that will last a
lifetime.
Obtain
Necessary Permits: Ensure you have the permits to visit the park
and engage in specific activities.
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| Grant's Gazelle in Ethiopia's Borana. |
Transport from Addis Ababa to Borana National Park
By Air
- Flights to Yabelo: Ethiopian Airlines provides flights from Addis Ababa to Yabelo Airport, with a duration of about 1.5 hours.
- Ground Transport: Upon arriving at Yabelo Airport, visitors can either hire a car or utilise local transport to reach Borana National Park, which is approximately 20 kilometres away.
- Private Car: Opting to rent a car or hire a private driver for the approximately 600-kilometre trip from Addis Ababa to Borana National Park offers comfort and flexibility. The drive typically takes around 10 to 12 hours depending on road conditions.
- Public Transport:
- Buses: Regular buses and minibuses run from Addis Ababa to Yabelo. The journey lasts about 12 to 14 hours.
- Shared Taxis: Shared taxis are also available for this route, providing a more direct yet potentially less comfortable alternative to buses.
Travelling from Addis Ababa to Borana National Park offers various transportation options that combine convenience with scenic views.
