Description

Starting point for visiting the park: Arba Minch

The main starting and stopping point for visiting the park is Arba Minch, where there are hotels that are convenient for tourists (such as Haile Resort and Paradise Lodge).

Day 1: Crocodile Market, Abaya and Chamo Lakes Boat Trip

• Morning trip to Arba Minch: Arrive in Arba Minch by plane or road from Addis Ababa or another city. Overnight at a hotel in the city (such as Haile Resort or Paradise Lodge).
• Afternoon Chamo Lake Boat Trip: Head to the shores of Chamo Lake and start your boat trip. The trip mainly features two things:-
• Crocodile Market (Azo Gebeya): – Visit the world’s largest gathering place for Nile crocodiles. Also, see large herds of hippos.
• Lake Abaya: – Crossing to Lake Abaya and seeing the unique red color of the lake (due to the mineral-rich soil).
• Dinner and overnight stay: – Eat at the hotel and watch the sunset over Lake Abaya and Chamo (Arba Minch hotels are the best for this view).

Day 2: White Grasslands and Wildlife Tour

• Morning drive to White Grasslands: – Travel from the hotel to the White Grasslands National Park entrance (usually near the boat launch). A 4×4 vehicle is required to fully appreciate the diversity of the park’s landscape.
• Wildlife viewing: – Enter the main part of the park and walk through the vast white grassland (which turns white during the dry season).
• Afternoon Sele Mabo Tour: – Visit the narrow strip of land known as the ‘Bridge of God’ that divides the park and separates the two lakes.
• Wildlife: – See herds of zebras, Greater Kudu, baboons and a variety of birds.
• Late Lake Tahoe Tour: – Capture the magnificent views of Lake Abay and Lake Chamon from the highest points of the park.
• Evening Dinner and overnight: – Return to Arba Minch town and stay at a hotel.

Day 3: Trip Summary and Cultural Tour

• Morning: Visit the Nech-Ser National Park Office: Watch a short video presentation or information about the park and buy souvenirs.
• Afternoon: Visit Chencha: Travel to Chencha town (near Arba Minch). Chencha is home to the Dorze tribe; see their unique elephant trunk houses and traditional weaving. Taste the traditional Dorze food, Koicho, and watch their cultural dance.
• End of tour: Depart from Chencha for Arba Minch airport or another departure point.

Examples of hotels in Arba Minch city:

1. Haile Resort Arba Minch (Address: Arbaminch Gamo, 2H84+7M9, Arba Minch)
2. Paradise Lodge Arba Minch (Address: Arba Minch)
3. Daros International Hotel (Address: 2HG4+H36, Arba Minch)

These hotels are close to the park and offer views of both lakes at the same time.

The Southern Ethiopian region is home to a wealth of natural and cultural attractions, so I hope you enjoy your visit to White Grass!