Description

Starting point for visiting the park: Wolaita Sodo or Arba Minch

The park is easily accessible by car from Wolaita Sodo or Arba Minch.

Day 1: Arrival, overnight and night viewing

• Morning drive to the park: Depart from Arba Minch or Wolaita Sodo and drive to the Maze National Park entrance (the length and condition of the road will vary depending on where you start).
• Afternoon entry to the park and completion of the park entrance procedure and overnight at a campsite or lodge in the park or nearby.
• First wildlife sighting: – Short afternoon walk. During this time, watch the animals that come to the Maze River area.
• Evening Dinner and Night Sounds: – Have dinner near the campsite and listen to the night sounds of the park.

Day 2: Swain’s Leaf Deer and Grasslands

• Sunrise: – Wake up at dawn and walk to the vast grasslands to find animals that are active in the cool morning hours, especially herds of Swain’s Leaf Deer.
• Morning Swain’s Leaf Deer Search: – Since the park was established for the Swain’s Leaf Deer, focus on seeing this rare Ethiopian species.
• Afternoon Maze River shore: – Return to the Maze River shore to look for hippos and crocodiles. The river is also home to many bird species.
• End of the day Bird Watching: – Explore the bushes and forests around the river to see the various bird species of the park.
• Dinner and overnight: – Relax at the campsite; learn about the history of the park with the help of a Scout.

Day 3: Hiking and return to the starting point

• Morning walk in the park: – Walk in the park with the park rangers (Scouts) in a safe part of the park (Walking Safari). During this time, you can see small animals and bird species up close.
• Afternoon farewell: – Depart from the park base and return to Wolayta Sodo or Arba Minch town.

Useful tips:

• Transportation: A 4×4 vehicle is required for the internal roads of the park.
• Accommodation: Accommodation options in the park may be limited (mostly camping). Adequate water and food are required.
• Best time to visit: The dry season (October to March) is the best time to travel.