The Forests of Gardula: Man-made and Natural Treasures
The Gardula and Shoqolo forests, located near Gidole town in the Gardula Zone, are major tourist attractions in the region. While the Gardula forest stands as a testament to human effort and reforestation, the Shoqolo forest remains pristine natural woodland.
- Gardula (Man-Made Forest)
This forest serves as an exemplary model of how humans can actively restore and live in harmony with nature.
- Origin: Planted during the 1960s and 70s, the primary goal was to restore the degraded highlands of Gardula and prevent soil erosion.
- Flora: Primarily consists of Pine and Eucalyptus species, with various indigenous trees allowed to integrate and grow over time.
- Benefits: It provides Gidole town with cool, fresh air, acts as a natural shield for the historic Gardula caves, and serves as a habitat for various bird and animal species.
- Shoqolo (Natural Forest)
Unlike the Gardula forest, Shoqolo is an ancient forest covered entirely with indigenous vegetation.
- Biodiversity: It is an ideal spot for visitors, serving as a habitat for many wild mammals (monkeys, duikers, warthogs, and occasional leopards) and diverse bird species.
- Flora: Features massive, centuries-old trees such as Zegba (Podocarpus) and Warka (Ficus). The forest creates a cool and humid “micro-climate” distinct from the surrounding lower-lying areas.
- Importance of the Forests
- Research and Tourism: Shoqolo serves as a “living laboratory” for the study of indigenous plants and animals. Both forests are suitable for hiking and bird watching.
- Water Source: The forests play a critical role in protecting natural springs that supply water to Gidole town and local communities.
- Cultural Conservation: The Dirashe community practices their traditional Tarka and Potaya terrace farming methods around the forest fringes without harming the trees.
1-Day Itinerary (Starting from Gidole)
This schedule is designed for visitors to explore both forests in a single day.
- Morning (07:30 – 11:00): Start your journey at the Gardula man-made forest near Gidole. Walk through the forest to breathe the fresh mountain air, explore the site where the historic ancient city of Gardula was founded, and visit the nearby caves.
- Lunch (12:00 – 13:30): Return to Gidole town for a traditional local lunch.
- Afternoon (14:00 – 17:00): Head to the Shoqolo natural forest. Hike through the dense forest, listen to the singing birds, and observe the massive Zegba and Warka trees. On your way back, stop to view the famous Dirashe terrace farms (Tarka and Potaya) to conclude your trip.
Traveler’s Tips
- Clothing and Footwear: The forest is humid and cool; wear warm clothing and non-slip hiking boots.
- Guides: It is highly recommended to hire a local guide to get detailed information about the flora and fauna.
- Conservation: Do not disturb the animals, and do not litter (especially plastic).