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Borena Sayint National Park: Ethiopia's Hidden Highland Paradise

Discover Ethiopia's hidden gem: stunning landscapes, unique wildlife, and rich biodiversity in Borena Sayint National Park.

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Borena Sayint National Park, nestled in the Amhara region of Ethiopia, offers a stunning landscape of mountains, forests, and unique wildlife. Established in 2009, this park is a haven for nature lovers seeking unspoiled beauty and diverse ecosystems.

A brief summary to Borena Sayint WorehimenoNational Park

Local tips

  • Visit during the dry season (October to May) for the best wildlife sightings and clearer hiking trails.
  • Bring plenty of water and snacks, as facilities within the park are limited.
  • Hire a local guide to enhance your experience and ensure safety while exploring the park.
  • Dress in layers, as temperatures can vary significantly throughout the day.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Wollo, take a bus or minibus to Dessie. In Dessie, find a local minibus heading towards Galemot. Inform the driver of your destination; they will drop you off near the park entrance (VQ6R+CXQ). The total travel time may take around 2-3 hours. A short minibus ride within Dessie costs around 5-10 ETB.

  • Taxi

    Hire a taxi from Wollo to Borena Sayint National Park. Negotiate the fare before starting your journey; expect to pay around 1500-2000 Ethiopian Birr for the trip. The taxi will take you directly to the park entrance.

  • Car

    Drive east from Wollo on the main road towards Dessie. After about 30 kilometers, look for signs indicating the turnoff to Galemot. Follow the road for approximately 15 kilometers until you reach the entrance of Borena Sayint National Park, located at VQ6R+CXQ. Be sure to have a map or GPS device.

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Discover more about Borena Sayint WorehimenoNational Park

Borena Sayint National Park, formerly known as Denkoro Chaka state reserve, is located in the South Wollo Zone of the Amhara region in northern Ethiopia. Approximately 600km from Addis Ababa via Debre Birhan, 300km from Bahir-Dar through Merto Lemariam, and 200km southwest of Dessie, the park sits at the intersection of Borena, Sayint, and Mehal Sayint districts. Established in 2009, Borena Sayint covers 15,262 hectares and features a dramatic landscape with deeply incised valleys, escarpments, plateau, and cone-shaped peaks. Altitudes range from 1,900 to 4,280 meters above sea level, creating three distinct agro-climatic zones: Woina Dega (temperate), Dega (cool), and Wurch (alpine). This variation supports diverse flora, from Afromontane forests to afro-alpine vegetation. The park is home to over 354 plant species, with 63 endemic to the area, including giant lobelia and *Echinops kebericho*. It also shelters a variety of wildlife, including over 30 species of large mammals, amphibians, reptiles, and smaller mammals. Endemic mammals include the Ethiopian wolf, Gelada baboon, Stark's hare, and Menelik's bushbuck. Birdwatchers can spot over 77 recorded bird species, including the Harwood's francolin. Borena Sayint also has cultural and historical significance, with more than ten caves that once served as hiding places. The park's peaks, such as Kabu Kora and Gulas, offer natural viewpoints for tourists. The area has been recognized and protected since the 14th century, potentially marking it as the oldest conservation practice in Africa.

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