South-western
Kafa
Cloud forest around Bonga where Arabica coffee still grows wild, a UNESCO biosphere reserve.
South-western Ethiopia
Chebera Churchura
Ethiopia’s least-visited national park, where elephants are tracked on foot with park scouts.
Overview
About Chebera Churchura
Chebera Churchura was a hunting area until it became a national park in 2005, and its elephants have multiplied since. They move between riverine forest, woodland and tall grass in the Omo-Gibe basin, with buffalo, hippo, waterbuck and greater kudu.
There are no crowds and few vehicles. Visitors walk with armed park scouts and follow fresh tracks; thick cover means sightings are earned, not guaranteed.
- Region
- South-western
- Best time
- October to March
Highlights
What makes it worth the journey
Highlights
- Elephant tracking on foot
- Buffalo and greater kudu
- Hippos in the park’s lakes
- A hot spring in the forest
Things to do
- Track elephants at first light
- Take a late-afternoon game drive
- Visit the palace of Abba Jifar II in Jimma
Plan your visit
Before you go
Best time to visit
October to March, driest December to February
Getting there
Fly to Jimma, then a long 4x4 drive south through Dawro and Konta.
Getting around
On foot with park scouts, and by 4x4 on park tracks.
Good to know
- Wear neutral colours on walks; nothing white or bright.
- We confirm the road via Jimma before every booking.
Gallery
A look at Chebera Churchura
Photos: Unsplash
Keep exploring
More places to see
South-western
Central
Addis Ababa
Ethiopia’s capital: museums, markets and the birthplace of many a coffee ceremony.
Afar
Danakil Depression
Discover Danakil Depression.
Let us plan your Chebera Churchura trip
Tell us when you want to travel and what you love. A local specialist will reply with a suggested plan and a clear price.