Southern Ethiopia - Ethiopia, Djibouti and Somaliland - page 293

BALE MOUNTAINS
Once one of the country's worst roads, the fresh pavement on the mountain-tracing high-
way east of Shashemene has opened up the Bale Mountains, though visitors have yet to
descend in any great numbers. But surely they will. This unique region offers great
trekking amid rare wildlife; a surreal underground river; and a fertile countryside lorded
over by rugged horsemen.
Dodola & Around
Resting between Shashemene and Bale Mountains National Park, the diminutive town of
Dodola is the base for some lauded horse treks. Initially set up by the German aid organisa-
tion GTZ to conserve the environment by offering local people an alternative income to
felling the local forests, it's now self-sufficient and locally run.
Trekking
Due to the high altitudes and steep gradients, most people trek on horseback , but this isn't
mandatory. The trekking territory lies adjacent to Bale Mountains National Park ( Click
here ) and many people choose to trek at both. The national park offers significantly better
wildlife watching, but most people find the scenery here superior and enjoy the cultural ex-
change with villagers along the way. The ecosystem and climate are essentially the same,
so see that section for additional background information.
Also see the Safety Guidelines for Trekking ( Click here ) and Responsible Trekking (
Click here ) boxed texts before embarking.
Planning
Thanks to five cosy lodges built along the route, trekking here is perfect for those without
camping gear; however, bringing your own sleeping bag is recommended. Typical camping
food (pasta, lentils, biscuits, tomato paste etc) can be purchased in Dodola and bread, por-
ridge, sheep and goats can be obtained en route. Stoves, cooking utensils, beer and soft
drinks are all found within the lodges. Optional cooks cost Birr150 per day.
The Commercial Bank in Dodola changes money.