Awash National Park

Awash National Park is a protected area in eastern Ethiopia centred on the Awash River corridor and adjacent volcanic landscapes. The park includes river gorges, seasonal water bodies and acacia-dominated woodland supporting a variety of wildlife.

Key features include the riverine habitats and hot springs that sustain birds and mammals through the dry season, along with scenic rocky outcrops and river gorges. The park supports species adapted to semi-arid conditions and is a popular site for day visits from nearby towns.

The park was established to conserve riverine and dryland ecosystems and to provide accessible wildlife viewing near regional transport routes. Facilities are modest and visits are often organised as day trips from surrounding towns.

It is located in the Afar/Afar-adjacent region of eastern Ethiopia, centred on the Awash River valley within volcanic and semi-arid terrain.

• Riverine habitats and hot springs: The park follows the Awash River through a volcanic landscape with riverine habitats, seasonal pools and hot springs that attract diverse birdlife and mammals.
• Wildlife viewing: Commonly seen mammals include species adapted to dry acacia woodland and riverine corridors such as Beisa oryx and various baboon species; early morning and late afternoon are best for sightings.