Ethiopia is home to several species found nowhere else in the world. The Ethiopian wolf, also known as the Simien fox, is one of the most famous. Featuring thick red fur and a white belly, and looking more like a large fox or a jackal than a wolf, this is the rarest canid on the planet and Africa’s most endangered carnivore. There are only around 400 left on the planet, and most of them are found here, in Bale Mountains National Park. Spotting this striking red-furred, white-bellied predator is a truly special experience.

Another remarkable species is the striking gelada monkey, known as the ‘bleeding heart baboon’ thanks to the scarlet patch of skin on its chest and is, in actual fact, a monkey. As well as these scarlet patches the monkeys, which live in large groups of 100 or more, are famous for their magnificent silver manes, expressive faces and playful antics. Seeing them in the wild will be an absolute highlight on a trip to the mountains. Geladas are unique among primates as they primarily feed on grass and spend most of their time on the ground. They can be observed in large groups in the high-altitude grasslands of the Simien Mountains.

Also endemic to Ethiopia is the walia ibex, an endangered species of ibex is like a giant mountain goat with impressively long, arching horns. These mountain dwellers are found in the rugged cliffs of the Simien Mountains, with only around 500 individuals left in the wild. Other notable endemic species include the mountain nyala, a striking antelope found in the Bale Mountains, and the Menelik’s bushbuck.

Ethiopia is a paradise for birdwatchers, boasting over 860 recorded bird species, including more than 30 endemics. Notable species include the Ethiopian thick-billed raven, the blue-winged goose, and the strikingly coloured Prince Ruspoli’s turaco. The Great Rift Valley lakes, such as Lake Awasa and Lake Ziway, provide habitats for flamingos, pelicans, and fish eagles.

Though Ethiopia is a landlocked country, its lakes and rivers are home to diverse aquatic life, including Nile perch, catfish, and tilapia. The country’s wetlands and highland lakes support hippos and Nile crocodiles, particularly in areas like Lake Chamo in Nechisar National Park, where large crocodiles bask along the shore.

Several of Ethiopia’s most iconic species are endangered due to habitat loss and human encroachment. The Ethiopian wolf remains one of the most threatened carnivores in Africa. The walia ibex, once on the brink of extinction, has seen some conservation success but remains critically endangered. The mountain nyala, while more numerous, is also at risk due to habitat destruction. Conservation areas such as the Simien Mountains and Bale Mountains National Parks are crucial for protecting these species and their fragile ecosystems.

For those looking for something truly unique, Ethiopia offers some extraordinary wildlife experiences. The Danakil Depression, one of the hottest places on earth, is home to unique desert-adapted wildlife, including the elusive striped hyena. The country also has significant populations of African wild dogs, spotted hyenas, and leopards, though they are rarely seen due to their elusive nature.

Beyond its wildlife, Ethiopia’s cultural and historical significance makes it a one-of-a-kind destination, where encounters with nature can be combined with visits to ancient rock-hewn churches, vibrant local markets, and the tribal communities of the Omo Valley.

Ethiopia is a hidden gem for wildlife lovers, offering an off-the-beaten-path experience filled with rare species and breathtaking landscapes. Whether trekking in search of Ethiopian wolves, watching geladas interact in the highlands, or birdwatching by the Rift Valley lakes, Ethiopia promises an unforgettable adventure.