ETHIOPIA OCTOBER 30 - NOVEMBER 17, 2020

Comprising much of the Horn of , is a poorly known but very beautiful country unlike any other part of the continent. On this new tour, you will discover that Ethiopia is culturally, scenically, and historically unique, and possesses a treasure trove of natural history wonders. Ethiopia, once synonymous with famine and desert, is actually dominated by a lush, fertile highland plateau occasionally referred to as “The Roof of Africa.”

Ethiopia is an ancient land, home to lush highland forests, vast savannas, acacia thorn-scrub, the magnificent Ethiopian Rift Valley, and some of Africa’s highest mountains. Of the more than 850 of recorded in the country, 37 either are endemic or near- endemic (the second largest total for any African country), among which are a number of captivating range-restricted species such as Rouget’s Rail, Prince Ruspoli’s Turaco, and the peculiar Stresemann’s Bush-. In addition to its tremendous birdlife, Ethiopia hosts an impressive list of mammals including such remarkable endemics as Gelada Baboon, Mountain Nyala, and Ethiopian (Simien) Wolf.

Our itinerary is designed with birds and other wildlife in mind, yet also offers a look at a broad slice of the country and its fascinating landscapes. We expect to encounter 400-500 species, and will make a special effort to locate as many of the endemic birds and mammals as possible. Enhancing the allure, this trip will operate in the boreal autumn when the diversity of the resident avifauna is augmented by the presence of large numbers of Palearctic migrants.

And thanks to a culture that does not hunt or harm the wildlife, much of what we see will be very confiding, offering photographers a bevy of exciting opportunities.

Over the last decade, Ethiopia’s infrastructure has improved markedly. We will utilize comfortable buses and four-wheel-drive vehicles throughout the tour. Such vehicles provide great flexibility to the program and the opportunity to go off-road should we need or feel the inclination. The quality of accommodations has improved greatly and we will stay at several new hotels and lodges, allowing for a much more comfortable and enjoyable travel experience. We can’t predict everything we will see and experience, nor can we predict the wonderful surprises that await, yet we are certain that this, our inaugural tour to Ethiopia, will contain many unforgettable highlights.

October 30-31, Days 1-2: Travel to Addis Ababa. Direct flights from the United States to Ethiopia depart from Washington Dulles International Airport (airport code IAD) to Addis Ababa (Addis Ababa Bole International Airport, airport code ADD), arriving early morning on Day 2. Please note that direct flights are also available into Addis Ababa from such European gateways as London, Paris and Frankfurt. Ethiopia, Page 2 Upon clearing customs and gathering luggage, you will be met by our ground agent and transferred to our hotel, an attractive facility surrounded by bird-rich gardens.

Those wishing to minimize the risk of misconnecting with the group, or to have time to relax before the tour begins, should consider arriving Addis Ababa a day or two early. Upon request, the VENT office will be happy to assist with any additional lodging arrangements.

On October 31, we will gather in the hotel lobby in the late morning for an introductory briefing and lunch followed by some easy birding on the grounds of the Ghion hotel. The extensive gardens here can offer productive birding, with the impressive Thick-billed Raven (possibly our first endemic), Nyanza Swift, Abyssinian Slaty-Flycatcher, among many other species. Addis Ababa is located at an elevation of about 7,500 feet, so it may take a day or two to adjust to the elevation.

NIGHT (Day 1): In Flight (Day 2): TBA Hotel, Addis Ababa

November 1, Day 3: Menagesha National Forest; Gefersa Reservoir. Today we will head about an hour’s drive from the capital to Menagesha National Forest for our first chance to encounter endemic birds of the highland forest habitat-type. We will explore stands of to look for endemic Abyssinian Catbird, White-backed Black-Tit and Abyssinian . If we are lucky, we might even see the secretive Abyssinian Ground- or the rare Yellow-fronted Parrot. Commoner species of the area are White-cheeked Turaco, Banded Barbet, Ethiopian Black-headed Oriole, Rueppell’s Robin-, Brown Woodland-Warbler, Abyssinian Slaty- Flycatcher, and Broad-ringed (Montane) White-eye.

In the afternoon, we’ll visit the swampy vegetation of Gefersa Reservoir, some 12 miles west of the capital. This site supports a high number of waterbirds, among them Blue-winged Goose, an attractive but irregular visitor. Other endemics found in the area are White-collared Pigeon, Abyssinian Longclaw, Abyssinian Slaty- Flycatcher, Black-headed Siskin, Brown-rumped Seedeater, and, from time to time, Wattled Ibis and Rouget’s Rail. Augur Buzzard, African Hobby, and African Black and Yellow-billed ducks are seen here as well.

NIGHT: TBA Hotel, Addis Ababa

November 2, Day 4: Sululta Plains and Debre Libanos. Our safari begins in earnest this morning as we drive over the Entoto Mountains. Naturally, we will stop to admire the spectacular views of Addis Ababa that the road affords before continuing out into the Sululta Plains. The extensive, heavily populated Sululta Plains are a mosaic of traditional pasture-lands, hay meadows, and grain fields, peppered with many small tarns and marshes. Such a diversity of habitats attracts a fine selection of waterbirds and open-country species. Among the many possibilities are the localized Spot-breasted Lapwing, Abyssinian Longclaw, Red-chested Swallow, and White-winged Cliff- Chat. This high-altitude country is host to small “tukul” villages of thatched-roof, earthen-walled houses that are typical of pastoral dwellings in Ethiopia and here dot the landscape, often with robed horsemen riding across the plains tending their livestock. Along the way, marshy areas and drier grasslands should provide our first Ethiopia, Page 3 opportunity to see such endemics as Wattled Ibis and Blue-winged Goose (whose nearest relative and ecological counterpart is the Andean Goose of South America) feeding along the water’s edge.

Other specialties include Rouget’s Rails and Abyssinian Longclaws skulking in the wet grass while flocks of White-collared Pigeons and Black-headed Siskins decorate the telephone wires. Other interesting species we may encounter today include Little Grebe; Gray Heron; Sacred Ibis; Egyptian Goose; African Black and Yellow-billed ducks; White-backed Vulture; Augur and Common buzzards; Red-knobbed Coot; Three-banded and Black- winged Lapwing; Speckled Pigeon; Dusky Turtle-Dove and Red-eyed Dove; Nyanza Swift; Speckled Mousebird; European Bee-eater; Western Yellow Wagtail; African (Grassland) Pipit; Red-rumped Swallow; Red-throated Pipit; Gray Wagtail; Common Bulbul; Erlanger’s Lark; Short-crested Lark; Red-breasted, Northern, Pied, Isabelline and Abyssinian ; Moorland (Abyssinian) Chat; Mountain Thrush; Groundscraper Thrush; Winding (Ethiopian) and Pectoral-patch cisticolas; Common Fiscal; ; Cape Rook; Red-billed Oxpecker; Greater Blue-eared Starling; Tacazze Sunbird; Swainson’s Sparrow; Baglafecht Weaver; Yellow Bishop; Red-collared Widowbird; Common Waxbill; Brown-rumped and Streaky seedeaters; African Citril; and Ortolan Bunting.

Later, we reach Debre Libanos, perched on the lip of a massive and spectacular gorge (a branch of the Blue Nile drainage system). The precipitous cliffs here are home to the impressive Gelada Baboon and we should encounter a troop of these handsome primates as they forage along the cliff tops. Among the birds we can expect to see are Erckel’s Francolin; Black-winged Lovebird; Banded Barbet; Rueppell’s Chat; White-winged Cliff-Chat; White- billed Starling; and Ethiopian Black-headed Oriole; as well as the spectacular Lammergeier (often sailing past at close range); Rueppell’s Griffon; Steppe, Tawny and Verreaux’s eagles; Eurasian Kestrel; Lanner and Peregrine falcons; the near-endemic White-cheeked Turaco; Mottled Swift; Blue-breasted Bee-eater; Hemprich’s Hornbill; Common House and Rock martins; Long-billed and pipits; Little Rock-Thrush; Rueppell’s Robin-Chat; Mocking Cliff-Chat; Singing and Stout cisticolas; African Paradise-Flycatcher; Broad-ringed (Montane) White- eye; Northern Puffback; Fan-tailed Raven; Red-winged Starling; Village Indigobird; Pin-tailed Whydah; Red- billed Firefinch; and Cinnamon-breasted Bunting.

NIGHT: TBA Hotel, Addis Ababa

November 3, Day 5: South into the Ethiopian Rift Valley. This morning we will make an early start and head south through the Ethiopian Rift Valley, one of the geologic wonders of the earth. Here, tectonic forces are literally pulling the ground apart, causing a fracture, or “rift,” within the continental plate that overlays the earth’s mantle. As the rift has widened over the millennia, the result is an elongated basin lined on either side by steep-walled mountains. Beyond the Rift Valley’s fascinating geologic features, it is thronged with magnificent bird-rich lakes.

Over the next days we will explore the best of these lakes and the surrounding arid savannas and patches of indigenous forest. We will be birding along the main road and turning off at several of the lakes along the way. The numbers of birds can be quite overwhelming, and whether you are an “old hand” in Africa or if this is your first time on the continent, you will undoubtedly be impressed by the spectacle. The opportunities for photography are plentiful and this is a great tour for those big lenses.

Most likely, our first birding stop will be at Lake Chelelektu. This is a small, shallow lake lined with marsh and mudflats and supports surprisingly large numbers of birds. In particular, it is an excellent site for migrant ducks and waders. Species regularly encountered here are Northern Pintail, Northern Shoveler, Garganey, Eurasian (Green-winged) Teal, Tufted Duck, Black-tailed Godwit, and Temminck’s Stint. This is also a good place to find African Pygmy-Goose, Hottentot Teal, Southern Pochard, and White-backed Duck, along with loads of migrant waders. Sorting through the rafts of ducks and other migrants can be very challenging due to the distraction caused by the sheer number of species moving through the scrubby vegetation near the lake edge. Common Cranes often roost in staggering numbers on the far side of the water, and we may see them flying overhead in huge, noisy flocks as they set off to forage for the day. A pair of sought-after Black Crowned-Cranes is also often observed around this lake. Ethiopia, Page 4 Farther south, the well-wooded rim of deep Lake Hora will likely be our second major stop. The woodlands around the lake teem with birds. Blue-breasted Bee-eater (of the endemic lafresnayii subspecies), Black-billed Barbet, Common , Blackcap, Rufous-necked Wryneck, Rueppell’s Robin-Chat, “Western” Black-headed , Beautiful Sunbird, Rueppell’s Weaver, and an amazing variety of waterbirds, especially diving ducks, can be seen here. Afterwards, the steep-sided Lake Bishoftu offers superb birding. Maccoa and Ferruginous ducks, Southern Pochard, Singing Cisticola, gorgeous Tacazze Sunbird, Mocking Cliff-Chat, Abyssinian , Little Rock- Thrush, and flocks of Black-winged Lovebird are just some of the possibilities here.

Time permitting, we will also visit Koka Reservoir, which supports vast numbers of resident and migrant waterbirds. Species we may encounter at many of these sites are Pink-backed Pelican, African Darter, Yellow- billed Egret, Goliath Heron, Hamerkop, both Yellow-billed and Saddle-billed storks, Black Crowned-Crane, Spur- winged and Egyptian geese, Knob-billed Duck, the elegant African Pygmy-Goose, African Fish-Eagle, Eurasian Marsh-Harrier, African Jacana, Senegal Thick-knee, Spur-winged Lapwing, Gull-billed Tern, and Pied and Malachite kingfishers. Rattling Cisticolas and White-browed Sparrow-Weavers breed along the road.

We will head down to the shore of Lake Ziway, where huge numbers of waterbirds congregate. Yellow-billed and Marabou storks, Hamerkop, Black Heron, ibises and egrets, White Pelican, and African Fish-Eagle are just some of the species to be seen here in impressive numbers. Lesser Jacana is also possible, and we will check gulls for wintering Pallas’s and Heuglin’s gulls. Dazzling Northern Carmine Bee-eaters and migratory White and Western Yellow wagtails (including the striking black-headed feldeggi race) can be seen around the lake edge. We will have to depart Lake Ziway in the mid-afternoon in order to reach our hotel at Lake Langano before dark.

NIGHT: Hara Langano Lodge, Lake Langano

November 4, Day 6: Lake Langano and Bishangari Forest. This morning we will explore the hotel grounds looking for such species as Black-winged Lovebird, Banded and Red-fronted barbets; Little Weaver; and Little Rock-Thrush. The rocky escarpment above holds Blue-breasted Bee-eater, Mocking Cliff-Chat, Abyssinian Wheatear, Fan-tailed Raven, and Ethiopian Rock Hyrax. Alternatively, a walk in the adjacent dry acacia woodland might yield Black-billed Woodhoopoe, Bearded Woodpecker, Von der Decken’s Hornbill, Boran Cisticola, Buff- bellied Warbler, Mouse-coloured Penduline-Tit, White-winged Black-Tit, White-rumped Babbler, Gray-headed Batis and Rueppell’s Weaver. Later, we may visit the grounds of another hotel for roosting Slender-tailed Nightjar, Verreaux’s and Grayish eagle-owls, and Clapperton’s Francolin.

In the afternoon we plan to visit Bishangari Forest on the southeastern shore of the lake. The acacia woodland bordering the road could produce Banded Snake-Eagle, Bare-faced Go-away-bird, and Rufous-necked Wryneck among others. The remnant patch of natural forest at Bishangari Lodge is home to a number of endemics and special birds including Scaly Francolin, Lemon Dove, Narina Trogon, Silvery-cheeked Hornbill, Yellow-fronted Parrot, White-cheeked Turaco, Abyssinian Woodpecker, and Ethiopian Black-headed Oriole. Noisy groups of Gray-backed Fiscals inhabit the more open areas, and Guereza Colobus can be found wherever there are tall fig trees. NIGHT: Hara Langano Lodge, Lake Langano

November 5, Day 7: Drive via Dinsho to Goba and the Bale Mountains. Today we leave the Rift Valley behind and climb steadily upward through the southeastern highlands to the fabulous Bale Mountains—one of Africa's most spectacular regions. The gradual ascent takes us through montane grassland, then juniper woodland, before getting up to the high Afro-alpine moorland of the Bale Mountains themselves. We will stop several times on the way because the roadside birding is fabulous virtually along the entire route. Characteristic birds include Augur Buzzard, Black-winged Lapwing, Erlanger’s Lark, the dark Ethiopian subspecies of African Stonechat, Red- breasted Wheatear, Groundscraper Thrush, and Yellow Bishop. As we gain elevation, highland species start to appear along the roadside. We can expect to see soaring Lammergeiers, flocks of Red-billed , Blue-winged Goose, Wattled Ibis, Rouget’s Rail, Chestnut-naped Francolin, White-collared Pigeon, Abyssinian Longclaw, Moorland Chat, and Black-headed Siskin. With a bit of luck, we may also find the impressive Cape Eagle-Owl. In the montane grasslands we will keep a lookout for Red-chested and Gray-rumped swallows. Ethiopia, Page 5 We will stop at Dinsho, headquarters of Bale Mountains National Park, and spend some time exploring nearby trails for the colorful Chestnut-naped Francolin, secretive Abyssinian Ground-Thrush, vocal Abyssinian Catbird, and White-backed Black-Tit. This is probably one of the best places to see the endemic Mountain Nyala and Menelik’s Bushbuck. With a local ranger we will look for roosting Montane Nightjar, African Wood-Owl, and the sought-after African Long-eared Owl in the dark recesses of the juniper thickets. Chances for the stunning Serval are good, as the high density of rodents in this area support a healthy population of this beautiful cat.

NIGHT: Wabe Shebelle Hotel, Goba

November 6-7, Days 8-9: Bale Mountains. The Bale Mountains are stunning. The eponymous National Park was set up primarily to protect two very special endemic mammals: Ethiopian (Simien) Wolf and Mountain Nyala. We will depart early and ascend the Bale Mountain massif en route to the unique Sanetti Plateau, which lies between 12,540 and 14,444 ft. above sea level.

Driving towards the plateau, we’ll reach stands of juniper- forest that are home to endemic Abyssinian Woodpecker, White-backed Black-Tit, Abyssinian Catbird, Abyssinian Slaty-Flycatcher and Abyssinian Ground- Thrush. Further along, stands of hypericum trees are hosting the endemic griseiventris race of Brown Warbler. Moorland and Chestnut-naped francolins, and Cinnamon Bracken- Warbler frequent dense shrubbery, and Winding (Ethiopian) Cisticolas are found in the more open areas.

Eventually, we will be driving on Africa’s highest road, passing close to the summit of Ancua, Ethiopia’s second highest mountain. Here, on an island of tundra in the Tropics, the habitat is classified as “Afro-alpine moorland,” characterized by a fascinating range of unique including Jibrra, or Giant Lobelias, which tower like monolithic giants over the rich tussock grasslands and extensive cushions of yellow Everlasting flowers. Groundsels and hypericums have evolved into trees here, the latter festooned with epiphytes. The grasslands are estimated to support an incredible biomass of 8,800 pounds of rodents per hectare. Consequently, this abundance of pretty items attracts a rich array of raptors, and we should see Steppe and Golden eagles, Augur Buzzard and elegant Pallid Harriers coursing over this verdant floral sea. The birds of prey share this abundant food source with the plateau’s most celebrated resident, the Ethiopian or Simien Wolf, crowned with the unenviable title of “the world’s rarest canid.” Watching these vibrantly colored , most closely related to the European Timber Wolf, exhibiting their hunting prowess while pouncing on Giant Mole-rats (another endemic of the Sanetti Plateau), is surely among Africa’s greatest wildlife experiences. We should enjoy excellent photographic opportunities throughout our time in this unique montane habitat.

The Bale Mountains are an officially designated Important Bird Area, supporting seven globally threatened species and nearly all of Ethiopia’s highland biome species. The plateau also holds the only Afro-tropical breeding populations of Ruddy Shelduck, Golden Eagle, and Red-billed Chough. We will also search for Black Stork, Wattled Ibis, Chestnut-naped and Moorland francolins, Rouget’s Rail, endemic Blue-winged Goose, Spot- breasted Lapwing, Wattled Crane, Thekla Lark, flocks of Red-throated Pipit, Abyssinian Longclaw, Red-breasted Wheatear, Moorland Chat, and flocks of endemic Black-headed Siskins.

Late afternoon we will descend on the southern side of the plateau into Harenna Forest where our next lodge is situated in a nice valley below the crags of the mountains. We will spend the next two nights in luxurious Bale Mountain Lodge to enjoy the comfort of this great place and to explore the wildlife.

NIGHTS: Bale Mountain Lodge, Harenna Forest

November 8, Day 10: Goba to Negele via Harenna Forest. After breakfast we leave the lodge and continue south towards Negele. We drive through the forest for more than an hour hoping to see Scaly Francolin or Giant Forest Hog crossing the road. As we are descending the forest grows drier and there are more and more coffee plantations under the canopy of larger trees. Soon we’ll reach the edge of the forest and drive through cultivation to reach dry lowland thicket and thornbush. Along the roadside we see the strange shaped spherical storage organs of Pyrenacantha malvifolia trees much loved by succulent enthusiasts. Ethiopia, Page 6 Birding is much different here with spectacular Red-and-yellow Barbets sitting atop termite mounds, Abyssinian Ground and von der Decken’s Hornbills, Golden-breasted Starling, the first Bateleurs of the trip all possible. We’ll want to reach a particular site in the Genale River basin, with time to spare, in order to search for what is, arguably, Ethiopia’s most prized endemic bird, the Prince Ruspoli’s Turaco. The type specimen was collected by the Italian Prince Eugenio Ruspoli during an 1893 expedition aimed at reaching Lake Rudolf. Unfortunately, the Prince had the rare distinction of being trampled to death by an elephant before he could return home and formally describe the bird that would ultimately bear his name, and without leaving behind any information as to the locality where it had been collected. Its whereabouts remained a mystery for half a century, until it was rediscovered in the 1940s, but its distribution and habitat preferences remained essentially unknown until the 1970s. The turacos are best found where there is an abundance of fruiting fig trees, and we have had good luck with finding them in one particular grove along our route.

With any luck, we’ll leave this spot in the late afternoon, having already scored nice studies of this spectacular and rare endemic. We will then drive directly to Negele, where we will spend two nights at a simple, but clean hotel.

NIGHT: Turaco Hotel, Negele

November 9, Day 11: Morning in Liben Plain and the Road to Bogol Manyo. East of Negele lies a unique open grassland, the Liben Plains, to which the little known Sidamo (or Liben) Lark is restricted. This species belongs to the unusual genus Heteromirafra, which also includes the South African Rudd’s Lark, and is considered one of the most endangered birds on earth. We shall make good use of the early morning as the larks will almost certainly only be active while it is still cool. The more common grassland species here are Plain-backed Pipit and Somali Short-toed Lark, but we will also walk the plains hoping to see the distinctive parachute display flight of the Sidamo Lark. Here, we should also find Black-winged and Crowned lapwings, small parties of hovering Lesser Kestrels, giant Kori Bustards (the world’s heaviest flying bird), and Pectoral-patch Cisticola. If we are very fortunate, we may see coveys of Coqui Francolin or flush a migratory Corn Crake.

Later, we will travel eastward on the road to Bogol Manyo for some afternoon birding. This area of southeastern Ethiopia is a land of increasingly dry woodland and thorn-savanna, and supports a number of exciting species we are unlikely to encounter elsewhere on our tour route including the endemic Salvadori’s Serin, elusive Red-naped Bushshrike, Pringle’s Puffback, Three-streaked Tchagra, Foxy Lark, Somali Crombec, Red-fronted Barbet, glorious Golden-breasted Starling, Somali Crow, African Silverbill, Somali Bunting, and Northern Grosbeak- Canary. Large troops of Olive Baboon may also be encountered here in addition to Guenther’s Dik-dik and Gerenuk.

A small population of Prince Ruspoli's Turaco survives in the thickets near Negele so we will have another chance to see this enigmatic bird. The surrounding dry woodland and thorn-savanna supports many dry country species such as White-bellied and Hartlaub’s bustards; Somali and Temminck’s coursers; Gillett’s Lark; Common “Dodson's” Bulbul; Spotted Morning-Thrush; Tiny, Boran and Ashy cisticolas; Mouse-colored Penduline-Tit; Gray-headed Bushshrike; Slate-colored Boubou; Taita Fiscal; White-rumped Shrike; White-crowned and starlings; Gray-headed Social-Weaver; and Shelley’s Rufous Sparrow.

NIGHT: Turaco Hotel, Negele

November 10, Day 12: Drive South to Yabello. Leaving Negele today, we turn south towards the village of Yabello along a long and seldom-traveled road. En route, we should be able to find the range-restricted African White-winged Collared-Dove, Black-bellied Sunbird, and Salvadori’s Weaver along the banks of the Dawa River, and, with a bit of luck, Short-billed Crombec in the thorn-scrub. While in this dry southern region of the country, we will watch especially for a number of new species, including skulking shrikes like Three-streaked Tchagra, Red-naped Bushshrike, and Pringle’s Puffback, and perhaps Short-tailed Lark. Other species we encounter are Eastern Chanting-Goshawk; Shikra; Vulturine Guineafowl; Black-faced Sandgrouse; Temminck’s Courser; Bare- faced Go-away-bird; Red-fronted, Black-throated and Red-and-yellow barbets; Spotted Morning-Thrush; Pale Ethiopia, Page 7 Prinia; Somali Crombec; Yellow-vented Eremomela; Pygmy Batis; Taita Fiscal; Somali Tit; Magpie Starling; Hunter’s Sunbird; Purple Grenadier; and Somali (or Somali Golden-breasted) Bunting.

As we approach the village of Yabello, we’ll start looking for flocks of the unique and extremely localized Stresemann’s Bush-Crow. The Italian, Moltoni, discovered this peculiar species only in 1938, which represents one of the most remarkable ornithological events in Africa of the twentieth century. Needless to say, we shall be eagerly looking out for our first party of these strange birds that recall starlings as much as corvids. In addition, this is the premier place to find the rare and endemic White-tailed Swallow. These two species are among Ethiopia’s most sought-after endemic birds, and both are listed as globally threatened. Giant red termite mounds, including some that tower 16 feet above the surrounding plains, characterize this area of acacia savanna. Both the bush-crow and the swallow appear to be associated in some way with these natural architectural marvels. The social bush-crow appears starling-like and is presumed to be most closely related to . The area is also home to many other dry country species, of which we hope to see Pygmy Falcon; Crested and Yellow-necked francolins; Vulturine Guineafowl; Red-bellied Parrot; Eastern Yellow-billed Hornbill; Black-throated, Red-and- yellow and D’Arnaud’s barbets; Northern Brownbul; African Bare-eyed Thrush; Buff-bellied Warbler; Banded Warbler; Somali Crombec; Pygmy Batis; Pringle’s Puffback; White Helmetshrike; Rosy-patched Bushshrike; Parrot-billed Sparrow; Black-capped Social-Weaver; Purple Grenadier; the brood-parasitic Steel-blue Whydah and its host, Black-cheeked Waxbill; and Somali Bunting. Mammals frequently seen along the road are Gerenuk, Guenther’s Dik-dik, Lesser Kudu, and Unstriped Ground Squirrel. We should reach our hotel on the outskirts of Yabello late in the afternoon.

NIGHT: Borana Lodge, Yabello

November 11, Day 13: Yabello Wildlife Sanctuary. This interesting part of Ethiopia hosts an avifauna broadly similar to that of northern , but additionally is home to two unique species that are found only here in Sidamo province: Stresemann’s Bush-Crow and White-tailed Swallow.

We will have the entire day to explore the area, including the vast 250,000-hectare Yabello Wildlife Sanctuary, which lies six miles east of Yabello in the Borana Zone, with the Yabello–Arero road passing through its southern part. Most of the area is at an elevation of 5,500 feet, although the topography is broken and varies between 4,500 and 6,600 feet. The area is notable for its red soils, which have little organic matter. The general vegetation-type is acacia savanna, the major trees being A. drepanolobium on black cotton soil, and A. brevispica and A. horrida on the slopes. There are also patches of Balanites aegyptiaca, and several species of and terminalia are found at the lower altitudes. The higher parts of the hills formerly were covered with Juniperus procera and Olea europaea cuspidata forest. However, only a few patches remain, most of the trees having been cut for construction and other purposes. The dominant land-use is pastoralism, as practiced by the Borana people.

Some of the birds and mammals we may encounter here include White-headed Vulture, Gabar Goshawk, the shrike-sized Pygmy Falcon, Yellow-necked Spurfowl, White-bellied Bustard, Somali Courser, Black-faced Sandgrouse, Mottled Swift, D’Arnaud’s Barbet, the wonderful and rare Red-naped Bushshrike, the similarly beautiful Rosy-patched Bushshrike, Scaly Chatterer, ventriloqual Spotted Morning-Thrush, Pale Flycatcher, Pale Prinia, Yellow-bellied Eremomela, Somali Crombec, Banded Warbler, White-crowned Starling, Taita Fiscal, Straw-tailed Whydah, Short-tailed and Foxy larks, Boran and Tiny cisticolas, African Bare-eyed Thrush, African Black-headed Oriole, the gorgeous Golden-breasted Starling, Pringle’s Puffback, Hunter’s and Shining sunbirds, Superb and Wattled starlings, Chestnut Sparrow, Yellow-spotted Petronia, White-winged Widowbird, Gray- headed and Black-capped social-weavers, Chestnut Weaver, Green-winged Pytilia, Black-cheeked Waxbill, White-bellied Canary, and Northern Grosbeak-Canary. Time permitting, we will visit the crater lake of Soda, where, as in any other village in the region, we have additional chances to see White-tailed Swallow. A night drive in this exciting area could produce Donaldson-Smith’s and Slender-tailed nightjars, Grayish Eagle-Owl, Northern White-faced Owl, and Three-banded Courser. Mammal sightings may include Striped and Spotted hyenas, Aardwolf, Aardvark, African Wild Cat, and Ethiopian Genet.

NIGHT: Borana Lodge, Yabello Ethiopia, Page 8 November 12, Day 14: Drive to Lake Awasa. After a final morning birding around Yabello, we will head north, back into the Rift Valley and its myriad of bird-rich lakes. We should arrive at Lake Awassa in time for some relaxed introductory birding.

For birding and natural history purposes, Lake Awasa is regarded by many as the jewel in the crown of Ethiopia’s Rift Valley lakes. Lake Awassa boasts extensive marshes and towering lakeside forests. The wetlands and associated forest hold a number of species that are hard to locate elsewhere in Ethiopia, and even some that are scarce throughout Africa.

After checking into our hotel, we will set out to explore the hotel’s gardens and the nearby shores of the lake where we may encounter Silvery-cheeked Hornbill, Double-toothed and Banded barbets, Black-winged Lovebird, Rufous-necked Wryneck, African Spotted-Creeper, and Slender-billed Starling. Along the shore of the lake a superb variety of birds can be found including Allen’s Gallinule, African Pygmy-Goose, White-backed Duck, Giant Kingfisher, Blue-headed Coucal, and Fawn-breasted (Abyssinian) Waxbill. There are Hippos in the lake plus Guereza Colobus and Vervet Monkeys in the gardens of the lakeside hotels.

NIGHT: Oasis Hotel, Awasa

November 13, Day 15: Morning at Wondo Genet; Afternoon at Abijata-Shalla Lakes National Park. This morning we will visit the forests and hot springs of Wondo Genet. Wondo Genet has long been considered the premier place in Ethiopia to see Abyssinian montane forest endemics along with a range of interesting Afro- montane species. Sadly, the area is under intense pressure from logging, agricultural conversion, and the planting of exotic trees. Nevertheless, we will explore the hillside scrub and forest. Here we hope to find Yellow-fronted Parrot (probably the best place to search for this endemic), Abyssinian Woodpecker, and Ethiopian Black-headed Oriole. Some of the other species we may find include Ayres’s and Crowned hawk-eagles; Rufous-chested Sparrowhawk; Black Goshawk; Mountain Buzzard; Rameron Pigeon; Lemon and Tambourine doves; Dusky Turtle-Dove; Blue-spotted Wood-Dove; African Emerald Cuckoo; Narina Trogon; Half-collared and Giant kingfishers; Blue-breasted Bee-eater; White-cheeked Turaco; Silvery-cheeked Hornbill; Yellow-fronted Tinkerbird; Banded and Double-toothed barbets; Lesser, Green-backed and Scale-throated honeyguides; Gray- headed Woodpecker; Black Sawwing; Mountain Wagtail; Gray and Red-shouldered Cuckoo-shrikes; Little Rock- Thrush; Abyssinian Ground-Thrush; Cinnamon Bracken-Warbler; Brown Woodland-Warbler; Abyssinian Slaty- Flycatcher; Dusky-brown Flycatcher; Rueppell’s Robin-Chat; Brown-throated Wattle-eye; Black-headed Batis; African Hill and White-rumped babblers; African Spotted-Creeper; Western Olive, Scarlet-chested, Tacazze and Beautiful sunbirds; Broad-ringed (Montane) and White-breasted (Abyssinian) white-eyes; Thick-billed Raven; Slender-billed and Sharpe’s starlings; Swainson’s Sparrow; Red-headed, Spectacled and Grosbeak weavers; Green-backed Twinspot; African Firefinch; Black-and-white Mannikin; African Citril; and Streaky and Brown- rumped seedeaters.

In the afternoon our journey will continue with a visit to Abijata-Shalla Lakes National Park. Our first stop will be at Shalla Lake, the deepest in the Ethiopian Rift Valley, with depths of up to 865 feet in some parts. Along the shores of the lake are a number of hot springs used by people for their reputed curative values. From Lake Shalla we’ll move on to Lake Abijata, a shallow soda lake surrounded by sparse acacia scrub. Abijata is always thronged with birds, including thousands of Greater and Lesser flamingos; Great White and Pink-backed pelicans; a variety of cormorants; Common, Black Crowned-, and sometimes Wattled cranes; herons; egrets; storks; ibises; waterfowl; and waders. Kittlitz’s Plovers race along the soda flats where Common Jackals scavenge for rich pickings, African Spoonbills feed in the shallows and Gull-billed Terns patrol methodically overhead. Other species we may find in this area include Black-necked Grebe, Great and Yellow-billed egrets, Saddle-billed Stork, Glossy Ibis, Cape Teal, Southern Pochard, Black-winged Stilt, Pied Avocet, Crowned and Caspian plovers, Gray- headed Gull, Lilac-breasted Roller, the huge Abyssinian Ground-Hornbill, Little Weaver, Lesser Masked-Weaver, and Reichenow’s Seedeater.

NIGHT: Oasis Hotel, Awasa

Ethiopia, Page 9 November 14, Day 16: Awasa Fish Market; Drive to Awash National Park. This morning we will visit the Awasa fish market where freshly caught fish attract many birds. This large lake is particularly rich in fish and the fishermen gut their catch and discard the waste around the market. This attracts large numbers of Marabou Storks and other birds; in turn, photographic opportunities are unrivaled. We should see Great White Pelican; Great and Long-tailed cormorants; Hamerkop; Sacred Ibis; Common Black-headed, Gray-hooded, and Lesser Black-backed gulls; and the near-endemic Thick-billed Raven squabbling over the fish remains.

We will then board our vehicles and follow the Rift Valley northwards, traveling across the tribal territories of the wild Afar people. These distinctive people are characteristically dressed in fine white cotton tunics bedecked with traditional jewelry and sporting intimidating daggers and spears. The men also sport a unique bushy hairstyle, and women and girls are also extravagantly attired and adorned. They adhere strictly to their ancestral ways of tending their herds of camels and goats which roam throughout this inhospitable land. The increasingly arid landscape is a haven for dry-country resident and migrant species. Around the plains we will search for Martial and Short-toed eagles, Yellow-necked Spurfowl, the rare Arabian Bustard, Black-headed Lapwing, Chestnut-bellied Sandgrouse, and Chestnut-headed Sparrow-Lark. Watercourses and rocky outcrops harbor Eurasian Sparrowhawk, European Turtle-Dove, the range-restricted Yellow-breasted Barbet, Common Nightingale, Blue Rock-Thrush, migrant Rufous-tailed and Black scrub-robins, Boran Cisticola, skulking Upcher’s Warbler, family groups of Red-fronted Apalis, Rufous Chatterer, Shining Sunbird, Black-crowned Tchagra, Southern Gray Shrike, Red-billed Buffalo- Weaver, Chestnut-crowned and White-browed sparrow-weavers, and African Silverbill.

On the way to Awash we will stop at Lake Beseka and the surrounding black lava fields to look for the rare Sombre Chat, as well as Blackstart, Bristle-crowned Starling, and Striolated Bunting, plus troops of Sacred Baboon. We should reach our lodge in the late afternoon.

NIGHT: Awash Falls Lodge, Awash National Park

November 15, Day 17: Awash National Park. What better way to conclude our tour of Ethiopia than with an entire day in the magnificent Awash National Park? This place undoubtedly is Ethiopia’s premier park. Encompassing almost 300 square miles of very scenic Rift Valley acacia savanna, Awash National Park boasts a bird list of 460 species and some wonderful mammals including Aardwolf, Lion (now rare), Leopard, African Wild Cat, small herds of Beisa Oryx, Grevy’s Zebra, Soemmering’s Gazelle, the elegant Gerenuk, the remarkable Hamadryas or Sacred Baboon, Olive Baboon, Grivet Monkey, Black-backed Jackal, Spotted and Striped hyenas, Greater and Lesser kudus, Warthog, and Salt’s Dik-dik.

The terrain in the park is mostly a mosaic of grassland and acacia scrub, but the Awash River flows through the area and supports some riverine forest in places. We will explore these riverine forests in addition to the wetlands, acacia woodlands, savanna grasslands, rocky hills, cliffs and escarpments. The absence of large predators means that it is safe to explore the area on foot, making for enjoyable birding. Some of the birds we may find include “Somali” Ostrich; Egyptian, Lappet-faced and Rueppell’s Griffon vultures; the elegant Scissor-tailed Kite; Bateleur; Tawny and Greater Spotted eagles; African Harrier-Hawk; Eastern Chanting-Goshawk; Short-toed Eagle; Black-chested Snake-Eagle; Pallid and Montagu’s harriers; Gabar Goshawk; Grasshopper Buzzard; Shikra; the diminutive Pygmy Falcon; Helmeted Guineafowl; Harlequin Quail; Small Buttonquail; Three-banded (Heuglin’s) Courser; Spotted Thick-knee; Chestnut-bellied and Liechtenstein’s sandgrouse; African Collared- Dove; Eastern Plantain-eater; Bare-faced Go-away-bird; White-browed Coucal; the giant Verreaux’s Eagle-Owl; Pearl-spotted Owlet; Plain and Slender-tailed nightjars; perhaps, if we are very lucky, Star-spotted Nightjar; African Palm-Swift; Blue-naped Mousebird; Purple, Lilac-breasted, and Abyssinian rollers; ; Eurasian Hoopoe; Von der Decken’s and Eastern Yellow-billed hornbills; Greater Honeyguide; Nubian, Bearded and Cardinal ; Yellow-breasted and Red-and-yellow barbets; Red-fronted Tinkerbird; Wire-tailed Swallow; the rare and enigmatic Gillett’s and Red-winged larks; Singing Bushlark; Chestnut-backed Sparrow-Lark; White-browed Scrub-Robin; over-wintering Rufous-tailed Rock-Thrush and Common Nightingale; Black Bush-Robin; Common “Somali” Bulbul; Mouse-coloured Penduline-Tit; localized Ashy Cisticola; Eastern Olivaceous Warbler; Gray Wren-Warbler; Red-fronted Warbler; Yellow-bellied Eremomela; Gray-headed Batis; Pale Flycatcher; Slate-colored Boubou; White-rumped Shrike; Northern Ethiopia, Page 10 Puffback; Somali Fiscal; Shining, Nile Valley and Marico sunbirds; Red-billed and White-headed buffalo- weavers; Cut-throat Finch; Green-winged Pytilia; Crimson-rumped Waxbill; African Silverbill; Rosy-patched, Orange-breasted and Gray-headed bushshrikes; Fan-tailed Raven; Red-headed, Rueppell’s and Spectacled weavers; sometimes great flocks of Red-billed Quelea; Yellow-spotted Petronia; Northern Red Bishop; Eastern Paradise- and Straw-tailed whydahs; and Rueppell’s, Superb, and Wattled starlings.

During these explorations, we also hope to find dazzling Northern Carmine Bee-eaters, which can sometimes be seen perched atop the backs of striding Kori Bustards. In fact, this is bustard central; nowhere else on the planet boasts the chance of six bustard species (Kori, Arabian, Buff-crested, White-bellied, Black-bellied and Hartlaub’s) in one day.

NIGHT: Awash Falls Lodge, Awash National Park

November 16-17, Days 18-19: Return to Addis Ababa; Departure for Home. After a final morning to explore this spectacular park, we will make our way back to Addis Ababa where we’ll check in to day rooms to freshen up prior to going to the airport. A group transfer will be provided to Addis Ababa Bole International Airport (airport code ADD) in time for flights departing at 10:30 p.m.or later.

DAY ROOM (November 19): TBA Hotel, Addis Ababa

EXTRA ARRANGEMENTS: Should you wish to make arrangements to arrive early or extend your stay, please contact the VENT office at least two months prior to your departure date. We can very easily make hotel arrangements and often at our group rate, if we receive your request with enough advance time.

MEDICAL EVACUATION INSURANCE REQUIREMENT: This tour visits remote locations where immediate access to primary medical care may NOT be available. For this reason, travel insurance which covers you for emergency evacuation is required for participation on this tour. This coverage is included in the Ripcord Rescue Travel InsuranceTM program. Through Ripcord, “emergency evacuation” can be purchased as a stand-alone benefit or as part of a comprehensive travel insurance policy. If you choose not to purchase insurance through Ripcord, you are required to obtain it through another provider.

TOUR SIZE: This tour will be limited to 12 participants.

TOUR LEADER(S): Machiel Valkenburg, David Wolf and Attila Steiner

Machiel Valkenburg was born in 1982 in a southern province in the Netherlands where, encouraged by his parents, he began birding at an early age. During his teens he studied landscape ecology and began performing bird surveys with the Dutch Centre for Field Ornithology. During this period he started traveling outside of Holland, first to Greece, Hungary, Romania, Scotland, and Morocco. Later, his birding travels took him extensively outside of Europe into Western Africa and further east to Russia and Kazakhstan. The nature and birds of Central Asia fascinated him so much that he stayed, resulting in the founding of his own bird tour company, Rubythroat Birding Tours. He lived in Kazakhstan for over 10 years, but moved back to Europe several years ago with his wife, Bonny. They now reside in Valencia on the coast of the Mediterranean Sea. From Central Asia he ventured further, with Southeast Asia and India becoming favorite destinations. Machiel has developed an expertise in the natural history of Asia. Along with birds, a good part of his attention is also given to butterflies, dragonflies, and mammals. Machiel speaks four languages, has good people and logistical skills, and is a natural-born bird guide. He loves to explore new destinations and show birds to his fellow birders. He has a keen eye and an excellent ear for bird sounds. Machiel is noted for his calm and respectful social approach, providing a good atmosphere during time in the field. Ethiopia, Page 11 David Wolf is a senior member of the VENT staff and one of our most experienced tour leaders. After birding the U.S. and for over a decade, an interest in the wildlife of Africa led him to East Africa in 1975, where he spent over a year studying the birds and other wildlife of the African continent. Soon after his return to Texas he began leading Rockport Wildlife Weekends for VENT, at that time a new company, and he hasn’t stopped leading tours since. In addition to Africa, David has extensive birding and tour-leading experience throughout the world, emphasizing North America, Africa, and the Neotropics. He unites great birding skills with a wide-ranging interest in all aspects of natural history, which he shares readily with tour participants. David and his wife, Mimi, live on a small farm in Nacogdoches, Texas, with assorted horses, cats, and dogs. They have two grown children, Matt and Elena, and are now the happy grandparents of Reimer and Ellison Rose, Matt and Tiffany’s children, and Tycho Drahn, Elena’s son.

Attila Steiner is a keen birdwatcher and naturalist. He worked for WWF on species conservation and wildlife trade before joining Ecotours Wildlife Holidays, for whom he leads tours to most countries in Eastern Europe, plus Ghana and Ethiopia. Attila has traveled extensively throughout most of Europe, Africa, Asia, and the American continent. He speaks English, German, and Spanish. His thorough knowledge of not only birds, but butterflies and dragonflies as well, is complemented by a special sense of humor.

FINANCIAL ARRANGEMENTS: The fee for the tour is $7,995 per person in double occupancy from Addis Ababa. This includes all meals from lunch on Day 2 to dinner on Day 18, accommodations as stated in the itinerary, ground transportation during the tour, gratuities, and guide services provided by the tour leaders. It does not include airfare from your home to Addis Ababa and return, airport departure taxes, alcoholic beverages, special gratuities, phone calls, laundry, or items of a personal nature. Rates are based upon group tariffs; if the tour does not have sufficient registration, a small-party supplement may have to be charged.

The single supplement for this tour is $525. You will be charged a single supplement if you desire single accommodations, or if you prefer to share but have no roommate and we cannot provide one for you.

REGISTRATION & DEPOSIT: To register for this tour, please contact the VENT office. The deposit for this tour is $1,000 per person. If you prefer to pay your deposit using a credit card, the deposit must be made with MasterCard, Visa, or American Express at the time of registration. If you would like to pay your deposit by check, money order, or bank transfer, your tour space will be held for 10 days to allow time for the VENT office to receive your deposit and completed registration form. The VENT registration form (available from the VENT office or by download at www.ventbird.com) should be completed, signed, and returned to the VENT office.

PAYMENTS: All tour payments may be made by credit card (MasterCard, Visa, American Express), check, money order, or bank transfer (contact the VENT office for bank transfer information). These include initial deposits, second deposits, interim payments, final balances, special arrangements, etc. Full payment of the tour fee is due 150 days (June 2, 2020) prior to the tour departure date.

EXCHANGE RATE SURCHARGES: In the erratic global financial markets of today, it is difficult to predict foreign currency exchange rates over the long term or at the time of operation of a tour or cruise departure. Tour prices are based upon the rate of exchange at the time of itinerary publication. If exchange rates change drastically, it may be necessary to implement a surcharge. If a surcharge is necessary, every effort will be made to minimize the amount. In many cases, these additional foreign exchange rate surcharges are passed to VENT by its vendors and suppliers. Ethiopia, Page 12 FUEL AND FUEL SURCHARGES: In the uncertain, often volatile oil market of late, it is difficult – if not impossible – to predict fuel costs over the long term, and more specifically, at the time of operation of this departure. Our prices are based upon the prevailing fuel rates at the time of itinerary publication. While we will do everything possible to maintain our prices, if the fuel rates increase significantly, it may be necessary to institute a fuel surcharge.

CANCELLATION & REFUNDS: Refunds are made according to the following schedule: If cancellation is made 180 days or more before the tour departure date, a cancellation fee of $500 per person will be charged unless the deposit is transferred to a new registration for another VENT tour that will operate within the next 12 months, in which case the cancellation fee will be $100 per person. If cancellation is made between 179 and 151 days before departure date, the deposit is not refundable, but any payments covering the balance of the fee will be refunded. If cancellation is made fewer than 150 days before departure date, no refund is available. This policy and fee schedule also apply to pre- and post-tour extensions. For your protection, we strongly recommend the purchase of travel insurance that covers trip cancellation/interruption.

If you cancel: Your refund will be: 180 days or more before departure date Your deposit minus $500* 179 to 151 days before departure date No refund of the deposit, but any payments on the balance will be refunded 150 days or less before departure date No refund available

*Unless the deposit is transferred to a new registration for another VENT tour that will operate within the next 12 months, in which case the cancellation fee will be $100 per person. To qualify, cancellation must occur 180 days or more before departure date; deposit transfers must be made at the time of cancellation; and one transfer per deposit.

Upon cancellation of the transportation or travel services, where you, the customer, are not at fault and have not cancelled in violation of the terms and conditions of any of the contract for transportation or travel services, all sums paid to VENT for services not received by you will be promptly refunded by VENT to you unless you otherwise advise VENT in writing.

Victor Emanuel Nature Tours is not a participant in the California Travel Consumer Restitution Fund. California law requires certain sellers of travel to have a trust account or bond. This business has a bond issued by Travelers in the amount of $50,000. CST #2014998-50.

TRAVEL INSURANCE: To safeguard against losses due to illness, accident, or other unforeseen circumstances, we strongly recommend the purchase of travel insurance as soon as possible after making a deposit. VENT has partnered with Redpoint Resolutions as our preferred travel insurance provider. Through Redpoint, we recommend Ripcord Rescue Travel InsuranceTM. Designed for all types of travelers, Ripcord is among the most highly regarded travel insurance programs available.

Critical benefits of Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance include a completely integrated program with a single contact for emergency services, travel assistance, and insurance claims; medical evacuation and rescue services from your point of injury or illness to your hospital of choice; comprehensive travel insurance for trip cancellation/interruption, primary medical expense coverage, and much more. Waiver for pre-existing conditions is available but must be purchased within 14 days of tour deposit. Optional expanded insurance coverage is available and includes items such as security evacuation coverage in case of a natural disaster or other security events, and a “Cancel for Any Reason” clause (must be purchased within 14 days of tour deposit). Ripcord is available to U.S. and non-U.S. residents.

For a price quote, or to purchase travel insurance, please visit: ripcordrescuetravelinsurance.com/ventbird; or click the Ripcord Rescue Travel InsuranceTM logo on our website (click Help and Trip Insurance); or call +1- 415-481-0600. Pricing is based on age, trip cost, trip length, and level of coverage.

Ethiopia, Page 13 AIR INFORMATION: Victor Emanuel Travel is a full-service travel agency and wholly owned subsidiary of Victor Emanuel Nature Tours (VENT). Victor Emanuel Travel will be happy to make any domestic or international air travel arrangements from your home and return. Please feel free to call the VENT office to confirm your air arrangements. Please be sure to check with the VENT office prior to purchasing your air ticket to confirm that the tour is sufficiently subscribed to operate. VENT cannot be responsible for any air ticket penalties.

BAGGAGE: We request that participants limit their baggage to one medium, soft-sided roller bag or duffel bag and one carry-on, as storage space in the vehicles may be limited.

The airlines now strictly enforce baggage regulations. Excess baggage charges, which can be substantial, are the personal responsibility of each participant. Please consult with your airline to find out specific weight restrictions.

As a precaution against lost luggage, we suggest that you pack a change of clothes, toiletries, medications, important travel documents, optics, and any other essential items in your carry-on bag. Due to ever-changing circumstances in the government’s attempts to improve airport security we recommend that you check the website of the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) for information pertaining to permissible carry-on items: http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/prohibited/permitted-prohibited-items.shtm.

BINOCULARS & SPOTTING SCOPES:

Binoculars – We strongly recommend good binoculars of at least 7x35, 8x42, 10x40, or 10x42 magnification. We recommend that you do NOT bring mini-binoculars of any kind. Some people like “minis” because they are small and lightweight; but they have an extremely small field of view and very poor light gathering power. Trying to find a bird in your binoculars using minis is like trying to read a book through a keyhole. You will be very frustrated, and even if you do manage to get the bird in your binoculars before it flies, you will have a poor view. You will find that 7x35 or 8x42 binoculars are compact and light enough.

Spotting Scopes – Your tour leaders will have scopes available for group use throughout the trip, but if you have one and wish to bring it, please feel free to do so.

CLOTHING: The safari-style nature of this program implies that you will want to bring clothing best suited for spending a lot of time in the field. We will experience considerable elevation differences, from near sea-level to about 14,000 feet, which means conditions will range from hot and dry to cool and cloudy. You should consider bringing a mix of clothing that prepares you for a diversity of conditions. Neutral colors (grays, tans, and khakis) are most appropriate. The following items are recommended:

 Pants and Shorts: A couple pairs of pants are essential. Many people prefer lightweight pants made of cotton or other material, but denim, though not as comfortable, is certainly acceptable. A pair or two of shorts may come in handy on warmer days.  Field Clothing: Outdoor stores such as Cabela’s and REI carry field clothing that many birders find appealing. Pants and shirts made of lightweight, yet durable materials with multiple pockets and ventilated seams are popular.  Shirts: Several t-shirts, (long and short-sleeved), in addition to other comfortable styles suitable for warm weather.  Hat: A hat, particularly wide-brimmed styles, for protection from the sun is essential.  Sweaters and Coats: Warm-to-hot weather will prevail on this trip, but a sweater, light coat, or jacket will be needed on some mornings and evenings, particularly when we are in the highlands, or, especially, if we encounter a cold front from the north. In the event we encounter rain or heavy mist in the highlands, you’ll want your jacket to have a water repellent quality.  Swimsuit: Some lodges may have a swimming pool.

Ethiopia, Page 14 FOOTWEAR: We recommend a good trail-walking shoe or light hiking boot when in the field. Athletic shoes are acceptable but will not keep your feet dry and can become soiled from muddy conditions. A lighter shoe, like an athletic shoe or sandal, may come in handy when relaxing around the lodges.

LAUNDRY SERVICE: Laundry service may be available for an extra charge at some of the hotels where we stay; however, you should bring enough clothing to get you through the trip in the event laundry service is unavailable.

EQUIPMENT: One of the most important aspects of having an enjoyable travel experience is being prepared with proper equipment. The following items will come in handy during your trip to Ethiopia:  Backpack – Good for carrying extra clothing, field guides, supplies, and optical equipment during all land excursions  Notebooks and pens  Travel alarm clock  Polarized sunglasses with good UV protection  Sunscreen, lip balm, skin lotions  Personal toiletries  Cameras, lenses, memory cards, and extra batteries  Collapsible walking stick – A highly recommended item for those who have trouble walking  Tissue packs

CLIMATE & WEATHER: Ethiopia is a country of tremendous geographic variation with a correspondingly diverse climate regime. In general, daytime temperatures are highest in the Rift Valley and trend progressively hotter from north to south while the higher elevation plateaus and mountains of northern and central Ethiopia are considerably cooler. The rainy season varies depending on region, but traditionally extends from April-October. November is an excellent time to visit as the likelihood of rain is low, the countryside is lush, and plentiful sun prevails. Addis Abbaba sits on a plateau and benefits from cooler temperatures year-round, with daytime highs averaging in the upper 60s-low 70s (°F). On the higher plateaus and in the mountains, temperatures at this season vary widely with a minimum-maximum temperature range from the lows 40s-low 70s (°F). Temperatures in the lowlands could reach 90 (°F).

Overall, you should expect a variety of conditions. Although the chance of rain is relatively low, we could encounter cloud-borne mist in the mountains and mornings with frost. In the lowlands, the days will be sunny and warm-to- hot.

CONDITIONS: Your trip to Ethiopia will be a safari-style travel experience that promises broad exposure to a beautiful and geographically diverse country. Ethiopia lacks much of the big game of East and Southern Africa, but does boast some very special mammals and a wonderful assortment of birds including many endemic species. We will give emphasis to seeking regional specialty birds, but, of course, will make a point of looking at everything we can find.

Traditionally, Ethiopia’s infrastructure has been spotty, with roads, transportation services, and accommodations ranging from superb to poor; however, Ethiopia has changed and conditions have improved markedly across most of the country. The road conditions are mostly good, although the lasting effects of the summer rains may still be felt and it will be impossible to know the condition of some roads until the trip begins. Accommodations range from simple to excellent. Swimming pools may be available at several lodges. Internet service is available at some lodges, but is not always reliable or functioning.

Travel will be aboard four-wheel drive vehicles and buses of varying size. Physical demands will be easy to moderate, but please bear in mind that we will be at high elevation for several hours on some days. We emphasize that no one will be subjected to physical demands that exceed their capabilities. All walking will be done at a slow pace. Ethiopia, Page 15 TRAVEL DOCUMENTS:

PASSPORTS - A valid passport is required. Please check the expiration date on your passport. If it is not valid for at least six months after your trip return date, you will need to get it renewed. You will also want to make sure that you have at least two blank pages in your passport for stamps

If you need a passport, you should get it well in advance of your trip departure date. For additional fees, a passport can be issued on an expedited basis. In the United States this can be done at the nearest passport office, most post offices, or the county clerk’s office. You may also visit www.state.gove/travel/ for information on how to get or renew a passport.

As a safety measure, photocopy the first two pages of your passport and keep the photocopies in a safe place, so if your passport is lost you will have proof of identification. Your passport should be signed and easily available at all times. You will need it for check-in at the airport on your first day of departure, so do not pack it in your checked luggage.

VISAS – For entry into Ethiopia, tourist visas are required for citizens of the United States, Canada, Australia, the U.K. and other EU nations. Tourist visa (valid for up to three months) can be issued on arrival only at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport. The Ethiopian Tourist eVISA was launched by the Main Department for Immigration and Nationality Affairs in Ethiopia in June 2017. The eVISA for Ethiopia authorizes the citizens with passports valid for at least six (6) months from arrival date to Ethiopia to apply for a tourist eVISA online. Once issued, the Ethiopian eVISA is valid for 30 or 90 days depending on the applicant’s selection.

CURRENCY & MONEY MATTERS: Your trip to Ethiopia includes most necessary expenses. You will want to bring enough cash to cover personal expenses not included in the program, such as gifts, laundry, gratuities, meals on your own, and personal items. It is best to carry small denominations of cash as any places we visit may be unable to provide change for large bills. While U.S. dollars may be accepted in more populous areas, it is always convenient to have a supply of local currency for such items. It is best to acquire local currency before leaving home, or at the airport or the hotel upon arrival in Addis Abbaba. Please note that hotels are unpredictable in terms of their ability to exchange large amounts of cash.

Should you extend your vacation in Ethiopia beyond what is offered in the program, you’ll want to consider obtaining local currency. Please check with your bank and credit card issuer for more information regarding banking and the use of ATM and credit cards overseas.

The official currency of Ethiopia is the Ethiopian Birr (ETB). You can check the latest currency conversion rate by visiting “XE-The World’s Favorite Currency Site” at: http://www.xe.com/.

ELECTRICITY: The electrical current in Ethiopia is 220V (110-120V in the U.S.). Electrical outlets are one of three European socket types: L, J, and D. The "Type L" or “Italian,” electrical plug has two round pins and a round grounding pin positioned in a straight line; the “Type J,” or “Swiss 3-Pin,” features a hexagonal plug design and three round pins arranged in a wide triangular configuration; the “Type D,” or “Old British Plug,” has three round pins in a triangular alignment. Note that the Type D has largely been replaced by other outlet styles where it was traditionally used. You will need an adapter to plug in your appliances as well as an all-purpose transformer if your appliances are not suitable for higher voltage.

LANGUAGE: Most Ethiopians speak a form of related Asiatic-Afro languages. English is the most widely spoken foreign language and is the foreign language most commonly taught in the Ethiopian school system.

TIME: Ethiopia is on the Eastern Africa Time Zone (EAT) and does not observe Daylight Savings Time. At the time of this tour, Ethiopia is 8 hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time (EST).

Ethiopia, Page 16 HEALTH: If there is any doubt as to your physical fitness to travel, consultation should be sought with your doctor before registering for this trip.

1) Routine Vaccinations: As standard travel precautions, you should always be up to date with the “routine vaccines,” including measles/mumps/rubella (MMR), diphtheria/pertussis/tetanus (DPT), varicella (chickenpox), polio vaccine, and your yearly flu shot.

2) Strongly Recommended Vaccines/Prophylaxis: Hepatitis A and B, Typhoid, Polio, and Meningitis. Hepatitis A and Typhoid are diseases of contaminated food and water and are present in Ethiopia, regardless of where we are eating or staying. Hepatitis B is a disease of contaminated bodily fluid and needles. Travelers without the Hepatitis B vaccination are at risk in the event a medical procedure is necessary. A Polio booster shot only if you were vaccinated as a child but never as an adult. Vaccination in adults provides lifetime defense. Meningitis is an infection of the fluid of a person's spinal cord and the fluid that surrounds the brain, and may be caused by a virus or bacteria. Vaccination is advised but we recommend that you check with your health provider. The vaccine typically takes 7-10 days to become effective against the bacteria that causes the disease.

 Malaria: Malaria is present in all regions of Ethiopia except around Addis Abbaba. The risk to travelers is considered moderate. The strains of malaria present in Ethiopia includes the chloroquine-resistant Plasmodium falciparum and P. vivax. To reduce the risk of contracting this disease, travelers are strongly urged to take one of the following antimalarial drugs (brand names in parentheses): mefloquine (Lariam), doxycycline, or atovaquone/proguanil (Malarone). Some travelers may experience serious side effects from antimalarial drugs; consult with your physician to determine the best preventative medication.

While traveling, you can take a number of simple precautions against mosquito bites. Wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and a hat, particularly between dusk and dawn. Keep windows closed while you sleep, and make sure that your repellent contains DEET.

 Yellow Fever: The risk of contracting Yellow Fever (YFV) is low; however, the disease does occur in Ethiopia and the Centers for Disease Control recommends vaccination. Please consult your health care provider or the CDC for more information.

3) The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): Although we make every effort to provide the most recent information on travelers’ health recommendations, it is advisable to check with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) prior to your departure to be certain that there have been no changes to their recommendations. For more information, please see the “Travelers’ Health” section website of the Centers for Disease Control at www.cdc.gov/travel.htm. The CDC operates a 24-hour recorded Travelers’ Information Line 800-CDC-INFO (232-4636) or you can check their website at www.cdc.gov/travel. Canadian citizens should check the website of the Public Health Agency of Canada: www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/new_e.html (click on travel health).

Health information for travellers to Ethiopia may be found at: http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/traveler/none/ethiopia

4) General Health recommendations:  Food & Water: All raw food is subject to contamination. Particularly in areas where hygiene and sanitation are inadequate, travelers should avoid salads, uncooked vegetables, and unpasteurized milk and milk products such as cheese, and eat only food that has been cooked and is still hot or fruit that has been peeled by the traveler personally. Cooked food that has been allowed to stand for several hours at ambient temperature can provide a fertile medium for bacterial growth, so if you sample local delicacies from a street vendor, be sure that the food is cooked in front of you.

Ethiopia, Page 17 Drink only bottled or boiled water and canned or bottled beverages. Avoid drinks with ice. If a can or bottle has been in ice, be sure to dry it off before drinking directly from the container. Never drink from rain or well water, since this is likely to contain illness-causing bacteria.

Please note that your tour leaders will let you know at every location of the safety of the food and water. Bottled water will be available at all times.

 Sun Exposure: The sun’s ultraviolet rays are dangerous under prolonged exposure (sometimes only a matter of minutes). Anytime you are outdoors you will want to protect your skin, including your lips, eyes, nose, and ears. A severe sunburn is potentially very painful and will affect your level of enjoyment. Always protect yourself when outdoors and be sure to bring an ample supply of high SPF sunscreen and lip balm. We strongly recommend the use of ultra-violet blocking, polarized sunglasses.

5) Over-the-Counter Prescription Medications: If you are taking prescription medication or over-the-counter medicine, be sure to bring an ample supply that will allow you to get through the trip safely. You should also bring your own supplies of non-prescription medication, pain relief, and motion sickness tablets if you feel you may need them. Remember to pack all medication in your carry-on baggage, preferably in original containers or packaging. As airline baggage restrictions can change without warning, please check with your airline for procedures for packing medication.

SUGGESTED READING: Our website at www.ventbird.com offers an online store that carries a wide variety of items for birding and nature lovers including over 6,000 books. A portion of the sales from our store benefits the Cornell Lab of Ornithology. You might also want to visit such other online stores as www.amazon.com, and for those out-of-print and hard-to-find titles, www.abebooks.com or www.buteobooks.com, which specializes in ornithology books.

Birds: Redman, Nigel. Birds of the Horn of Africa: Ethiopia, , , , and Socotra. Princeton Field Guides. Princeton University Press, 2009. This is the most important field guide for this tour.

Mammals: Kingdon, Jonathan. The Kingdon Field Guide to African Mammals. London: Academic Press, Harcourt Brace and company, 1997. A complete and informative guide to African mammals; full of information and good illustrations. Kingdon, Jonathan. The Kingdon Pocket Guide to African Mammals. London: Christopher Helm, 2004. A much smaller, lighter pocket version of the famous Kingdon field guide, but still with excellent information and the same illustrations. Suggested if you are on a mission to reduce weight! Estes, Richard Despard. The Behavior Guide to African Mammals. Berkeley: University of California Press, 1991 (20th Anniversary Edition, 2012). A marvellous resource explores the biology of African mammals; an excellent complement to the field guides.

Reptiles: S. Spawls, K. Howells, R. Drewes & J. Ashe. A Field Guide to the Reptiles of East Africa. Academic Press, 2002. A super-comprehensive, though large and heavy, guide to reptiles. S. Spawls, K. Howells, & R. Drewes. Pocket Guide to the Reptiles and Amphibians of East Africa. Christopher Helm Publications (in UK), 2006. This is a lightweight and portable guide, partly adapted from the popular and highly acclaimed field guide reviewed above. Covering the most prominent 150 reptiles and 80 amphibians found in the region to the south (Kenya, , , and ), but with some relevance for Ethiopia. Features concise text, photographs, and a map for each species. This is a convenient and attractive pocket guide for a diverse and often conspicuous group of animals. Bill Branch. A Photographic Guide tothe Snakes, Other Reptiles and Amphibians of East Africa. Struik, 2005. A very handy, slim, yet fairly comprehensive little guide to reptiles and amphibians.

Ethiopia, Page 18 General: A wealth of material is available on the history, culture, and anthropology of this region. Some suggestions include: Marcus, Harold G. A History of Ethiopia. Updated edition. University of California Press, 2002. Matthiessen, Peter. The Tree Where Man Was Born. Penguin Press, 1995. An amazing look at the people, landscapes, and animals of East Africa. A finalist for the National Book Award. , Cynthia. Portraits in the Wild: Behavior in East Africa. Second edition. Chicago: University of Chicago Press, 1982. Reader, John. Africa: A Biography Of A Continent. Penguin, 1998. A comprehensive overview of the African continent from ancient history to the present.

TIPPING: Tipping (restaurant staff, porters, drivers, local guides) is included on VENT tours. However, if you feel one or both of your VENT leaders or any local guides have given you exceptional service, it is entirely appropriate to tip. We emphasize that tips are not expected and are entirely optional. Tips should be given directly to your tour leader; they should not be sent to the VENT office.

RESPONSIBILITY: Victor Emanuel Nature Tours, Inc. (VENT) and/or its Agents act only as agents for the passenger in regard to travel, whether by railroad, motorcar, motorcoach, boat, or airplane and assume no liability for injury, damage, loss, accident, delay, or irregularity which may be occasioned either by reason of defect in any vehicle or for any reason whatsoever, or through the acts or default of any company or person engaged in conveying the passenger or in carrying out the arrangements of the tour. VENT and its agents can accept no responsibility for losses or additional expenses due to delay or changes in air or other services, sickness, weather, strike, war, quarantine, or other causes. All such losses or expenses will have to be borne by the passenger, as tour rates provide for arrangements only for the time stated. The right is reserved to substitute hotels of similar category for those indicated and to make any changes in the itinerary where deemed necessary or caused by changes in air schedules. The right is reserved to cancel any tour prior to departure, in which case full refund will constitute full settlement to the passenger. The right is reserved to substitute leaders on any tour. Where this is necessary, notification will be given to tour members. No refund will be made for any unused portion of the tour unless arrangements are made in sufficient time to avoid penalties. The prices of the tours are based on tariffs and exchange rates in effect at the time of publication and are subject to adjustment in the event of any change therein. The right is reserved to decline to accept or to retain any person as a member of any tour. Baggage is at owner's risk entirely. The airlines concerned and their agents and affiliates are not to be held responsible for any act, omission, or event during the time passengers are not on board their aircraft. The passenger ticket in use by said airlines, when issued, shall constitute the sole contract between the airlines and the purchaser of these tickets and/or passenger. The services of any I.A.T.A.N. carrier may be used for these tours, and transportation within the United States may be provided by any member carrier of the Airline Reporting Corporation.

ETH:20201030 Ref: 03/18/19 – AS PNP: 2/18/2020 - PS