Visit Chebera Churchura National Park | Ethiopia’s Hidden Gem

Set in the heart of the Dawro Zone, Chebera Churchura National Park is one of Ethiopia’s newest and most untouched wilderness destinations. If you’re planning to visit Chebera Churchura National Park, get ready for a wild, authentic experience with raw nature, dense forests, diverse landscapes, and herds of African elephants — all without the crowd.

🐘 Wildlife and Biodiversity

Chebera Churchura is a prime conservation site, known especially for being home to Ethiopia’s largest population of elephants. The park also hosts buffalo, lions, warthogs, bushbucks, and over 200 species of birds. The combination of montane forests and open savannahs makes it one of the most ecologically diverse protected areas in East Africa.

🧭 Location and Accessibility

Located about 480 km southwest of Addis Ababa, on the Addis–Jimma–Chida–Ameya road, the park covers roughly 11,900 hectares. You can reach the area via road through Jimma or Wolaita Sodo. It’s recommended to visit with a local guide or through an organized tour package.

📅 Best Time to Visit Chebera Churchura National Park

The dry season, from November to February, is ideal for wildlife viewing. During these months, trails are more accessible and animals gather near water sources. The wet season, while lush and green, can make parts of the park hard to navigate.