📍 West Shewa, Oromia
The first protected area ever proclaimed in Ethiopia, an hour west of the capital.
Leaving Finfinne and driving west towards Ambo, the first attraction along this route is the magnificent forest of Menagesha Suba. It is easily accessible, on the outskirts of the capital.
Covering some 2,500 hectares, this natural forest is a remnant of the vast covering that used to spread across the highlands of Ethiopia. Reaching heights of more than 3,000 metres above sea level, it carries alpine vegetation at its highest points. Menagesha Suba was the first protected area proclaimed in Ethiopia and shelters a diverse array of birds as well as some notable mammals.
This is a great place for hikers, with numerous trails leading through the vegetated hillsides. For the fitter walker, you can push up towards the heights of Mogli peak and take in some stunning scenery.
The state forest reserve entry ticket is covered, and a certified forestry and botanical guide walks the trails with you alongside a forest scout.
The nature walk runs beneath the ancient juniper and podocarpus canopy, with the guide naming the vegetation and pointing out Menelik's bushbuck and the endemic forest birds sheltering in the reserve.
For those who want the climb, the panoramic hike continues up towards the peak and the valley viewpoints over the highlands west of the capital.
Not included: picnic meals and refreshments, personal trekking gear, and guide and scout tips.
Travel with community-owned guides who know every trail and story. Your visit directly supports conservation and local livelihoods across the region — part of what makes Oromia’s abundance possible.
