Southern Ethiopia & Borana, Ethiopia
    Very Quiet
    Malaria: Moderate

    Safari in Geraille National Park

    Situated in the Somali region, Geraille National Park is a vast, arid to semi-arid landscape of acacia bushland and open plains. It's home to unique dryland species such as the critically endangered Grevy's zebra, Beisa oryx, and Gerenuk, offering a different kind of safari experience focused on desert-adapted wildlife.

    Best timeOctober to March (dry season) for the Simien Mountains and Bale Mountains.
    Species
    0
    Big Five
    0/5
    Recommended stay
    1-2 days

    Geraille National Park Map

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    Recent sightings at Geraille National Park

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    Species data comes from GBIF verified sightings. Records for this area may not yet be linked.

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    Game drives, guided tours, and unique experiences in Geraille National Park

    Ethiopia offers incredible diversity, and we believe the best time to visit depends on your priorities. For dramatic highland scenery and endemic wildlife like the gelada baboon and Walia ibex, the...

    January

    Now
    low

    Dry Season

    Clear skies and cool temperatures prevail across most of the country. The Simien Mountains can be quite cold, especially at night, but daytime is pleasant for hiking.

    This is an excellent time for birding as resident birds are active and resident wildlife is easily spotted against the dry landscape. The Ethiopian wolf is often seen hunting in the highlands.

    We love January for its crisp air and clear views, making it perfect for trekking in the Simien Mountains and spotting the unique gelada baboons.

    Simien Mountains National Park
    Bale Mountains National Park

    February

    low

    Dry Season

    The dry season continues with warm, sunny days and cool nights. Rainfall is minimal, offering excellent visibility and accessibility to all regions.

    Wildlife viewing remains superb as animals congregate around water sources. It's a prime time for observing the Walia ibex on the rocky escarpments.

    We recommend February for its consistently good weather, ideal for exploring the rugged beauty of the Simien Mountains and the diverse ecosystems of Bale.

    Simien Mountains National Park
    Bale Mountains National Park
    Nechisar National Park

    March

    low

    Dry Season

    Temperatures begin to rise, especially in the lowlands, while the highlands remain pleasantly cool. The dry conditions persist, making travel easy.

    The landscape starts to show signs of the approaching rains, but wildlife is still concentrated and visible. Predator sightings can increase as they take advantage of the dry conditions.

    We find March to be a sweet spot before the rains, offering great game viewing and comfortable trekking conditions in the highlands.

    Simien Mountains National Park
    Bale Mountains National Park
    Awash National Park

    April

    low

    Short Rains

    The short rains begin, bringing brief, localized showers, usually in the afternoon. Temperatures are warm to hot, particularly in the Rift Valley.

    The landscape turns a vibrant green, offering beautiful photographic opportunities. Birdlife becomes more active, and the rains can bring out insects, attracting insectivores.

    We enjoy April for the fresh green landscapes and the dramatic skies that often accompany the short rains, especially around the Rift Valley lakes.

    Bale Mountains National Park
    Lake Langano
    Abijatta-Shalla National Park

    May

    low

    Short Rains

    The short rains continue, though they often become less frequent and intense than in April. It remains warm, with occasional showers.

    The vegetation is lush, and wildlife is dispersed. This is a good time for birding, with many migratory birds still present.

    We think May offers a quieter experience with beautiful green scenery, perfect for those who prefer fewer visitors and a more intimate wildlife encounter.

    Bale Mountains National Park
    Awash National Park

    June

    low

    Green Season

    The main rainy season begins, characterized by heavier, more consistent rainfall, especially in the highlands. Temperatures are moderate.

    While some areas might be less accessible, the rains bring life to the land. The Ethiopian wolf is often seen in the Bale Mountains, and the highlands are spectacular.

    We love the dramatic, lush landscapes of June, and the fewer crowds make it a peaceful time to explore the Bale Mountains, despite the possibility of rain.

    Bale Mountains National Park
    Simien Mountains National Park

    July

    low

    Green Season

    This is typically the wettest month, with significant rainfall across much of the country. Roads can become challenging, particularly in remote areas.

    The vegetation is at its lushest. While game viewing can be more challenging due to the dense foliage, the birding is exceptional, and the landscapes are stunning.

    We recommend July for dedicated birdwatchers and photographers who appreciate the dramatic, verdant scenery and the solitude it offers.

    Bale Mountains National Park
    Simien Mountains National Park

    August

    low

    Green Season

    Rainfall continues, though it often starts to decrease towards the end of the month. Temperatures remain moderate. Some higher altitude roads may still be affected.

    The landscape is still very green. The Ethiopian wolf is often seen with pups during this period. The highlands offer fantastic opportunities for spotting unique fauna.

    We find August rewarding for its vibrant green scenery and the chance to see wolf pups in the Bale Mountains, making the occasional rain shower worthwhile.

    Bale Mountains National Park
    Simien Mountains National Park

    September

    low

    Green Season

    The rains begin to taper off, with fewer showers and more sunshine. The landscape remains green and beautiful. Temperatures are pleasant.

    As the rains recede, wildlife begins to congregate more predictably. This is a great month for spotting the Walia ibex and gelada baboons in the Simien Mountains.

    We recommend September for its transition from the green season, offering beautiful landscapes and increasingly reliable wildlife sightings without the peak season crowds.

    Simien Mountains National Park
    Bale Mountains National Park

    October

    moderate

    Dry Season

    The dry season is firmly established with clear skies and warm, sunny days. Temperatures are pleasant in the highlands and warmer in the lowlands.

    This is prime wildlife viewing time as animals gather around waterholes. The Simien Mountains are excellent for spotting the endemic gelada baboons.

    We love October for the return of consistently clear weather, making it ideal for exploring the Simien Mountains and enjoying excellent visibility for wildlife.

    Simien Mountains National Park
    Bale Mountains National Park
    Awash National Park

    November

    moderate

    Dry Season

    Dry and sunny conditions continue. Temperatures are warm during the day and cool at night, particularly in the highlands. Excellent travel conditions.

    Wildlife viewing is excellent across the country. The Danakil Depression is more accessible and less extreme in temperature than in the hottest months.

    We recommend November for its superb weather and accessibility to diverse regions, including the unique landscapes of the Danakil Depression.

    Simien Mountains National Park
    Bale Mountains National Park
    Danakil Depression
    +1

    December

    high

    Dry Season

    The dry season is in full swing with clear skies and pleasant temperatures, though it can be cold in the highlands. Ideal for travel.

    This is a fantastic month for game viewing, with animals readily visible. Birding is also good, with resident species active.

    We find December to be a peak time for its excellent wildlife viewing and comfortable weather, perfect for exploring the dramatic landscapes of the Simien Mountains.

    Simien Mountains National Park
    Bale Mountains National Park
    Nechisar National Park

    January

    Now
    low

    Dry Season

    Clear skies and cool temperatures prevail across most of the country. The Simien Mountains can be quite cold, especially at night, but daytime is pleasant for hiking.

    This is an excellent time for birding as resident birds are active and resident wildlife is easily spotted against the dry landscape. The Ethiopian wolf is often seen hunting in the highlands.

    We love January for its crisp air and clear views, making it perfect for trekking in the Simien Mountains and spotting the unique gelada baboons.

    Simien Mountains National Park
    Bale Mountains National Park

    February

    low

    Dry Season

    The dry season continues with warm, sunny days and cool nights. Rainfall is minimal, offering excellent visibility and accessibility to all regions.

    Wildlife viewing remains superb as animals congregate around water sources. It's a prime time for observing the Walia ibex on the rocky escarpments.

    We recommend February for its consistently good weather, ideal for exploring the rugged beauty of the Simien Mountains and the diverse ecosystems of Bale.

    Simien Mountains National Park
    Bale Mountains National Park
    Nechisar National Park

    March

    low

    Dry Season

    Temperatures begin to rise, especially in the lowlands, while the highlands remain pleasantly cool. The dry conditions persist, making travel easy.

    The landscape starts to show signs of the approaching rains, but wildlife is still concentrated and visible. Predator sightings can increase as they take advantage of the dry conditions.

    We find March to be a sweet spot before the rains, offering great game viewing and comfortable trekking conditions in the highlands.

    Simien Mountains National Park
    Bale Mountains National Park
    Awash National Park

    April

    low

    Short Rains

    The short rains begin, bringing brief, localized showers, usually in the afternoon. Temperatures are warm to hot, particularly in the Rift Valley.

    The landscape turns a vibrant green, offering beautiful photographic opportunities. Birdlife becomes more active, and the rains can bring out insects, attracting insectivores.

    We enjoy April for the fresh green landscapes and the dramatic skies that often accompany the short rains, especially around the Rift Valley lakes.

    Bale Mountains National Park
    Lake Langano
    Abijatta-Shalla National Park

    May

    low

    Short Rains

    The short rains continue, though they often become less frequent and intense than in April. It remains warm, with occasional showers.

    The vegetation is lush, and wildlife is dispersed. This is a good time for birding, with many migratory birds still present.

    We think May offers a quieter experience with beautiful green scenery, perfect for those who prefer fewer visitors and a more intimate wildlife encounter.

    Bale Mountains National Park
    Awash National Park

    June

    low

    Green Season

    The main rainy season begins, characterized by heavier, more consistent rainfall, especially in the highlands. Temperatures are moderate.

    While some areas might be less accessible, the rains bring life to the land. The Ethiopian wolf is often seen in the Bale Mountains, and the highlands are spectacular.

    We love the dramatic, lush landscapes of June, and the fewer crowds make it a peaceful time to explore the Bale Mountains, despite the possibility of rain.

    Bale Mountains National Park
    Simien Mountains National Park

    July

    low

    Green Season

    This is typically the wettest month, with significant rainfall across much of the country. Roads can become challenging, particularly in remote areas.

    The vegetation is at its lushest. While game viewing can be more challenging due to the dense foliage, the birding is exceptional, and the landscapes are stunning.

    We recommend July for dedicated birdwatchers and photographers who appreciate the dramatic, verdant scenery and the solitude it offers.

    Bale Mountains National Park
    Simien Mountains National Park

    August

    low

    Green Season

    Rainfall continues, though it often starts to decrease towards the end of the month. Temperatures remain moderate. Some higher altitude roads may still be affected.

    The landscape is still very green. The Ethiopian wolf is often seen with pups during this period. The highlands offer fantastic opportunities for spotting unique fauna.

    We find August rewarding for its vibrant green scenery and the chance to see wolf pups in the Bale Mountains, making the occasional rain shower worthwhile.

    Bale Mountains National Park
    Simien Mountains National Park

    September

    low

    Green Season

    The rains begin to taper off, with fewer showers and more sunshine. The landscape remains green and beautiful. Temperatures are pleasant.

    As the rains recede, wildlife begins to congregate more predictably. This is a great month for spotting the Walia ibex and gelada baboons in the Simien Mountains.

    We recommend September for its transition from the green season, offering beautiful landscapes and increasingly reliable wildlife sightings without the peak season crowds.

    Simien Mountains National Park
    Bale Mountains National Park

    October

    moderate

    Dry Season

    The dry season is firmly established with clear skies and warm, sunny days. Temperatures are pleasant in the highlands and warmer in the lowlands.

    This is prime wildlife viewing time as animals gather around waterholes. The Simien Mountains are excellent for spotting the endemic gelada baboons.

    We love October for the return of consistently clear weather, making it ideal for exploring the Simien Mountains and enjoying excellent visibility for wildlife.

    Simien Mountains National Park
    Bale Mountains National Park
    Awash National Park

    November

    moderate

    Dry Season

    Dry and sunny conditions continue. Temperatures are warm during the day and cool at night, particularly in the highlands. Excellent travel conditions.

    Wildlife viewing is excellent across the country. The Danakil Depression is more accessible and less extreme in temperature than in the hottest months.

    We recommend November for its superb weather and accessibility to diverse regions, including the unique landscapes of the Danakil Depression.

    Simien Mountains National Park
    Bale Mountains National Park
    Danakil Depression
    +1

    December

    high

    Dry Season

    The dry season is in full swing with clear skies and pleasant temperatures, though it can be cold in the highlands. Ideal for travel.

    This is a fantastic month for game viewing, with animals readily visible. Birding is also good, with resident species active.

    We find December to be a peak time for its excellent wildlife viewing and comfortable weather, perfect for exploring the dramatic landscapes of the Simien Mountains.

    Simien Mountains National Park
    Bale Mountains National Park
    Nechisar National Park

    January

    Now
    low

    Dry Season

    Clear skies and cool temperatures prevail across most of the country. The Simien Mountains can be quite cold, especially at night, but daytime is pleasant for hiking.

    This is an excellent time for birding as resident birds are active and resident wildlife is easily spotted against the dry landscape. The Ethiopian wolf is often seen hunting in the highlands.

    We love January for its crisp air and clear views, making it perfect for trekking in the Simien Mountains and spotting the unique gelada baboons.

    Simien Mountains National Park
    Bale Mountains National Park

    February

    low

    Dry Season

    The dry season continues with warm, sunny days and cool nights. Rainfall is minimal, offering excellent visibility and accessibility to all regions.

    Wildlife viewing remains superb as animals congregate around water sources. It's a prime time for observing the Walia ibex on the rocky escarpments.

    We recommend February for its consistently good weather, ideal for exploring the rugged beauty of the Simien Mountains and the diverse ecosystems of Bale.

    Simien Mountains National Park
    Bale Mountains National Park
    Nechisar National Park

    March

    low

    Dry Season

    Temperatures begin to rise, especially in the lowlands, while the highlands remain pleasantly cool. The dry conditions persist, making travel easy.

    The landscape starts to show signs of the approaching rains, but wildlife is still concentrated and visible. Predator sightings can increase as they take advantage of the dry conditions.

    We find March to be a sweet spot before the rains, offering great game viewing and comfortable trekking conditions in the highlands.

    Simien Mountains National Park
    Bale Mountains National Park
    Awash National Park

    April

    low

    Short Rains

    The short rains begin, bringing brief, localized showers, usually in the afternoon. Temperatures are warm to hot, particularly in the Rift Valley.

    The landscape turns a vibrant green, offering beautiful photographic opportunities. Birdlife becomes more active, and the rains can bring out insects, attracting insectivores.

    We enjoy April for the fresh green landscapes and the dramatic skies that often accompany the short rains, especially around the Rift Valley lakes.

    Bale Mountains National Park
    Lake Langano
    Abijatta-Shalla National Park

    May

    low

    Short Rains

    The short rains continue, though they often become less frequent and intense than in April. It remains warm, with occasional showers.

    The vegetation is lush, and wildlife is dispersed. This is a good time for birding, with many migratory birds still present.

    We think May offers a quieter experience with beautiful green scenery, perfect for those who prefer fewer visitors and a more intimate wildlife encounter.

    Bale Mountains National Park
    Awash National Park

    June

    low

    Green Season

    The main rainy season begins, characterized by heavier, more consistent rainfall, especially in the highlands. Temperatures are moderate.

    While some areas might be less accessible, the rains bring life to the land. The Ethiopian wolf is often seen in the Bale Mountains, and the highlands are spectacular.

    We love the dramatic, lush landscapes of June, and the fewer crowds make it a peaceful time to explore the Bale Mountains, despite the possibility of rain.

    Bale Mountains National Park
    Simien Mountains National Park

    July

    low

    Green Season

    This is typically the wettest month, with significant rainfall across much of the country. Roads can become challenging, particularly in remote areas.

    The vegetation is at its lushest. While game viewing can be more challenging due to the dense foliage, the birding is exceptional, and the landscapes are stunning.

    We recommend July for dedicated birdwatchers and photographers who appreciate the dramatic, verdant scenery and the solitude it offers.

    Bale Mountains National Park
    Simien Mountains National Park

    August

    low

    Green Season

    Rainfall continues, though it often starts to decrease towards the end of the month. Temperatures remain moderate. Some higher altitude roads may still be affected.

    The landscape is still very green. The Ethiopian wolf is often seen with pups during this period. The highlands offer fantastic opportunities for spotting unique fauna.

    We find August rewarding for its vibrant green scenery and the chance to see wolf pups in the Bale Mountains, making the occasional rain shower worthwhile.

    Bale Mountains National Park
    Simien Mountains National Park

    September

    low

    Green Season

    The rains begin to taper off, with fewer showers and more sunshine. The landscape remains green and beautiful. Temperatures are pleasant.

    As the rains recede, wildlife begins to congregate more predictably. This is a great month for spotting the Walia ibex and gelada baboons in the Simien Mountains.

    We recommend September for its transition from the green season, offering beautiful landscapes and increasingly reliable wildlife sightings without the peak season crowds.

    Simien Mountains National Park
    Bale Mountains National Park

    October

    moderate

    Dry Season

    The dry season is firmly established with clear skies and warm, sunny days. Temperatures are pleasant in the highlands and warmer in the lowlands.

    This is prime wildlife viewing time as animals gather around waterholes. The Simien Mountains are excellent for spotting the endemic gelada baboons.

    We love October for the return of consistently clear weather, making it ideal for exploring the Simien Mountains and enjoying excellent visibility for wildlife.

    Simien Mountains National Park
    Bale Mountains National Park
    Awash National Park

    November

    moderate

    Dry Season

    Dry and sunny conditions continue. Temperatures are warm during the day and cool at night, particularly in the highlands. Excellent travel conditions.

    Wildlife viewing is excellent across the country. The Danakil Depression is more accessible and less extreme in temperature than in the hottest months.

    We recommend November for its superb weather and accessibility to diverse regions, including the unique landscapes of the Danakil Depression.

    Simien Mountains National Park
    Bale Mountains National Park
    Danakil Depression
    +1

    December

    high

    Dry Season

    The dry season is in full swing with clear skies and pleasant temperatures, though it can be cold in the highlands. Ideal for travel.

    This is a fantastic month for game viewing, with animals readily visible. Birding is also good, with resident species active.

    We find December to be a peak time for its excellent wildlife viewing and comfortable weather, perfect for exploring the dramatic landscapes of the Simien Mountains.

    Simien Mountains National Park
    Bale Mountains National Park
    Nechisar National Park
    Planning & reference

    Geraille National Park offers a truly untouched wilderness experience, a rare gem where we feel like genuine pioneers. Its low crowding level means intimate wildlife encounters, making it perfect for those seeking a raw, authentic Ethiopian safari far from the well-trodden paths. We love the feeling of discovery here.

    Gate Times

    We find that Geraille National Park typically operates from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily. Given its remote nature, entry permits are almost always pre-arranged through your safari operator, and we strongly recommend this approach to ensure a smooth arrival. There are no significant seasonal variations in operating hours, but always confirm with your operator.

    Tipping

    Tipping is customary and deeply appreciated. For a lead guide, we suggest around $15-20 per person per day. Camp staff can be tipped collectively via a central box, perhaps $5-10 per person per day. Rangers accompanying walks might receive $5-10 per person per activity. Ethiopian Birr is acceptable, but US dollars are often preferred and easier for staff to manage.

    Dress Code

    We always advise light, breathable layers in neutral colours like khaki, olive, or grey. Long sleeves and trousers are essential for sun protection and insect bite prevention, especially given the moderate malaria risk. A wide-brimmed hat and sturdy closed-toe shoes are non-negotiable for game drives and any walking safaris we undertake.

    Photography

    Photography is generally permitted for personal use. We always recommend asking permission before photographing local people out of respect. Drones are strictly prohibited without specific, hard-to-obtain permits, and we advise against even attempting it. For wildlife, a telephoto lens is crucial, and we love capturing the dramatic light during the early mornings and late afternoons when the colours are sensational.

    Etiquette

    We stress the importance of quiet observation. Keep voices low on game drives and always remain inside your vehicle unless explicitly instructed by your guide. Never feed animals or attempt to interact with them. In camp, respect quiet hours, especially early mornings and evenings, to allow everyone to enjoy the tranquility.

    What to Bring

    Lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and trousers
    Wide-brimmed hat
    Sturdy closed-toe walking shoes
    Insect repellent with DEET
    Sunscreen and lip balm
    Binoculars
    Camera with a telephoto lens and spare batteries
    Small backpack for day trips
    Personal first-aid kit and any prescription medications
    Malaria prophylactics (consult your doctor)
    Reusable water bottle
    Power bank for charging electronics

    Temperature

    28.11°C

    83°F · Range: 21.46–34.56°C

    Rainfall

    2.5 mm

    Dry season · 0.4 rainy days

    Humidity

    35.2%

    Sunshine

    11.1 hrs/day

    Wind Speed

    4.4 m/s

    15.8 km/h

    Based on 5 years of weather data · Data source: Open-Meteo Archive API

    Geraille National Park Reviews