6-Days Chebera Churchura NP & Hallala Kella Tour

This 6-day journey takes you deep into the untouched wilderness and rich cultures of southwestern Ethiopia. Chebera Churchura National Park, one of Ethiopia’s newest and most wildlife rich parks is home to vast savannahs, dense forests, rivers and wetlands supporting large populations of elephants, buffalo, lions, leopards, hippos, and diverse birdlife. Complementing the wildlife experience, the tour also introduces you to the Halla Kella people, known for their strong cultural identity, traditional lifestyle and close relationship with nature. Designed for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, photographers and cultural explorers, this tour offers a perfect balance of safari adventure and authentic community encounters in a rarely visited part of Ethiopia.

Day 1: Addis Ababa – Flight to Jimma – Drive to Chebera Churchura National Park

In the morning, take a domestic flight from Addis Ababa to Jimma. Upon arrival, meet your driver-guide and begin the scenic drive southwest toward Chebera Churchura National Park. En route, enjoy views of lush landscapes, rivers, and rural villages. Arrive at the park headquarters or lodge in the late afternoon. After check-in, relax and enjoy the peaceful natural surroundings. Overnight: Lodge / Tented camp near Chebera Churchura NP

Day 2: Full-Day Wildlife Safari in Chebera Churchura National Park

Spend the entire day exploring Chebera Churchura National Park on game drives. The park is especially famous for its large elephant herds, often seen near water sources. You may also spot African buffalo, bushbuck, waterbuck, warthogs, hippos, crocodiles, and, with luck, predators such as lions and leopards. The park’s wetlands and rivers attract a wide variety of bird species, making it ideal for birdwatching. Enjoy a picnic lunch inside the park and continue game viewing in the afternoon. Return to the lodge before sunset.Overnight: Lodge / Tented camp

Day 3: Chebera Churchura – Nature Walk & Waterfall Exploration

After breakfast, set out on a guided nature walk inside the park. This walk allows you to experience the park from a different perspective, learning about native plants, medicinal trees, and animal tracks. Later, visit one of the park’s scenic rivers or waterfalls, depending on seasonal accessibility. In the afternoon, enjoy leisure time or a short game drive focusing on areas not covered the previous day. Overnight: Lodge / Tented camp

After breakfast, set out on a guided nature walk inside the park. This walk allows you to experience the park from a different perspective, learning about native plants, medicinal trees, and animal tracks. Later, visit one of the park’s scenic rivers or waterfalls, depending on seasonal accessibility. In the afternoon, enjoy leisure time or a short game drive focusing on areas not covered the previous day. Overnight: Lodge / Tented camp

Day 4: Chebera Churchura – Drive to Halla Kella Community

Following breakfast, depart Chebera Churchura and drive toward the Halla Kella area. The journey takes you through fertile farmland and remote settlements. Upon arrival, settle into a local guesthouse or community lodge. In the afternoon, begin your cultural experience with an introduction to the Halla Kella people. Learn about their traditional houses, farming methods, social structure, and daily life. Evening cultural interactions may include storytelling or traditional music. Overnight: Community lodge / Guesthouse

Day 5: Full-Day Cultural Experience with the Halla Kella People

Spend the day fully immersed in Halla Kella culture. Activities may include observing or participating in daily routines such as farming, food preparation, or local crafts. Learn about traditional beliefs, dress, ceremonies, and the community’s connection to the surrounding environment. This day offers excellent opportunities for cultural photography and meaningful interaction with local residents. Lunch is typically prepared using local ingredients. Overnight: Community lodge / Guesthouse

Day 6: Halla Kella – Drive to Jimma – Flight to Addis Ababa

After breakfast, say farewell to the Halla Kella community and drive back to Jimma. Depending on your flight schedule, enjoy some free time in Jimma before taking a domestic flight back to Addis Ababa, marking the end of the tour.