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Chebera Churchura National Park

National Park

In Ethiopia's Oromia region, Chebera Churchura National Park contains woodland, rivers and waterfalls with elephants and buffalo-visitors come for wildlife viewing and guided hikes.

Chebera Churchura National Park Addis AbabaLalibelaGondarSimien Mountains National ParkChebera Churchura National Park
In this guide

Chebera Churchura National Park essentials

Country: Ethiopia
Driest months: Dec-Feb
Pay in: Birr (Br)
Language: Amharic, Oromo, Somali
Emergency: 91

Chebera Churchura National Park at a Glance

About Chebera Churchura National Park

Chebera Churchura National Park is a protected area in Ethiopia’s Oromia Region established to conserve montane forests, wetlands and associated wildlife, including significant elephant populations.

The area was designated for protection by Ethiopian authorities to safeguard local biodiversity and prevent habitat conversion; management aims to balance conservation with the needs of nearby communities.

The park is located in southwestern Oromia in Ethiopia; it is remote and reached from regional towns by long overland routes.

  • Wildlife: Home to diverse habitats including moist montane forest, wetlands and grasslands supporting elephants, buffalo and several antelope species.
  • Access: The park is in a remote part of southwestern Oromia and overland access typically requires 4x4 transport and local guides.
When to Go

Best Time to Visit Chebera Churchura National Park

Visit during the dry season for easier wildlife viewing and safer trail access, though both seasons offer unique wildlife opportunities.

Dry season
December-March · 20-28°C
Better visibility for wildlife and easier trail conditions.
Wet season
June-September · 15-25°C
Lush scenery and swollen rivers but some areas may be inaccessible.

Weather & Climate near Chebera Churchura National Park

Climate

Chebera Churchura National Park's climate is classified as Tropical Monsoon - Tropical Monsoon climate with consistently warm temperatures year-round. Temperatures range from 12°C to 30°C. Abundant rainfall (1561 mm/year), wettest in July.

Air Quality: AQI 72 Moderate
Best Time to Visit
JanuaryDecemberFebruary
Temperature & Rainfall
Temperature Range
36°
Warmest Month
6°
Coldest Month
Monthly Conditions
Month Comfort Temp Feels Rain Sky Humidity Wind UV Daylight
January Excellent 13° - 30° 21° 40 mm some cloud 58% 1.8 m/s 2.2 extreme 11.7h
February Excellent 13° - 30° 22° 53 mm partly cloudy 52% 1.8 m/s 2.4 extreme 11.8h
March Very Good 15° - 30° 22° 104 mm partly cloudy 60% 2.1 m/s 2.5 extreme 12.0h
April Good 15° - 28° 21° 187 mm overcast 77% 2.1 m/s 2.4 extreme 12.2h
May Good 14° - 27° 21° 187 mm overcast 85% 1.8 m/s 2.2 extreme 12.3h
June Good 14° - 26° 20° 175 mm overcast 86% 1.9 m/s 2.0 very high 12.4h
July Good 14° - 24° 19° 189 mm overcast 83% 1.6 m/s 1.8 very high 12.3h
August Good 14° - 25° 19° 179 mm overcast 82% 1.6 m/s 2.0 extreme 12.2h
September Good 14° - 26° 20° 167 mm overcast 80% 1.6 m/s 2.2 extreme 12.0h
October Very Good 13° - 27° 20° 133 mm partly cloudy 77% 1.5 m/s 2.4 extreme 11.9h
November Excellent 13° - 29° 21° 92 mm some cloud 72% 1.4 m/s 2.2 extreme 11.7h
December Excellent 12° - 29° 21° 55 mm some cloud 65% 1.7 m/s 2.1 extreme 11.6h
Getting There & Around

How to Get to Chebera Churchura National Park

Access is usually by road from regional towns such as Tercha or Sodo; local operators and park offices can provide permits and guide arrangements. Expect long drives on unpaved roads; vehicle hire and a local guide are recommended.

Tips for Visiting Chebera Churchura National Park

  • Hire local guides from the nearest towns - guides are knowledgeable about animal movements and seasonal river crossings.
  • Ask about lodge or community-run camping options; some areas can be reached only with multi-day treks.
  • Bring binoculars for spotting herds and primates during dawn and dusk.