Mountain Biking Trip in the Bale Mountains

This 5-day tour explores Bale Mountains National Park, a lesser-known highland park south of Addis Ababa. After a long drive to Dinsho, three days of mountain biking climb from 2,900m through the Web Valley to the Sanetti Plateau at 4,100m, Africa's highest moorland, with chances to spot the rare Ethiopian wolf.

A spectacular downhill run from Sanetti to Goba through moorland, giant heather forest and gorges rewards three days of climbing, before the drive back to Addis Ababa.

The tour requires good fitness given the altitude and off-road terrain, and is run as a fully supported camping trip with cook, scouts and pack mules.

Highlights:

• Bike from 2,900m to 4,100m through Bale Mountains National Park
• Cross the Sanetti Plateau, Africa's highest moorland
• Chance to spot the rare Ethiopian wolf and birds of prey
• Rest at the "Grey Lake" (Gebre Guracha) below Mt Woronga
• Spectacular downhill from Sanetti to Goba through moorland and giant heather forest
• Fully supported camping with cook, scouts and pack mules

Surface and terrain:
Gravel roads giving way to small tracks and off-road riding, at altitudes of 2,900-4,100m. Terrain is relatively flat and grassy in places but often technical; difficulty ranges from moderate to difficult, with sustained climbing over Days 2-3.

Likely weather:
Night temperatures can drop below 0°C; daytime temperatures likely won't exceed 15°C. Warm, professional sleeping gear is needed.

Suitable for:
Riders with good fitness, given the high altitude and off-road, technical riding. High-quality mountain bikes needed (rental available).