Guassa Community Conservation Area: An Ethiopian Highland Haven
Discover Ethiopia's hidden gem: Afromontane landscapes, unique wildlife, and ancient conservation traditions in the Guassa Community Conservation Area.
The Guassa Community Conservation Area, nestled in the Ethiopian Highlands, is a stunning nature preserve showcasing remarkable biodiversity and cultural heritage. As one of the oldest community-managed conservation areas in Africa, it offers breathtaking landscapes, unique wildlife encounters, and a glimpse into traditional Ethiopian life.
A brief summary to Guassa Community Conservation Area
- Bar Meda, ET
- +251946616262
- Visit website
- Monday 7:30 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 7:30 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 7:30 am-6 pm
- Thursday 7:30 am-6 pm
- Friday 7:30 am-6 pm
- Saturday 7:30 am-6 pm
- Sunday 7:30 am-6 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning for the best chance to spot wildlife and enjoy cooler temperatures.
- Bring binoculars for excellent birdwatching opportunities.
- Pack layers of clothing as the weather in the highlands can change rapidly.
- Engage with local guides to learn about the area's ecology and culture.
- Respect the local traditions and customs of the communities living in and around the conservation area.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Addis Ababa, take a bus or shared minibus to Dessie. Buses depart frequently from the main bus station in Addis Ababa. The journey takes approximately 5-6 hours and costs around 150-250 Ethiopian Birr. From Dessie, take a local taxi or shared minibus heading towards Bar Meda. The fare for this leg of the journey should be around 20-30 Birr. Inform the driver that you are going to the Guassa Community Conservation Area, and they can drop you off at the nearest point. You may need to walk the last few kilometers, so be prepared with appropriate footwear and water.
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Car
From Addis Ababa, head northeast on the A2 road. Continue for approximately 260 km until you reach the town of Tarmaber. From Tarmaber, follow the road towards Bar Meda. The Guassa Community Conservation Area is located near Bar Meda, approximately 80 km from the main highway. Be prepared for some unpaved roads as you get closer to the conservation area. It takes approximately 4 hours and 1 minute to drive from Addis Ababa to Guassa Community Conservation Area. Driving costs may range from $16-$25.
Discover more about Guassa Community Conservation Area
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Ankober Palace Lodge
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Dessie Shewa Ber Neighborhood ( ደሴ ሸዋ በር ሰፈር)
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Filwuha
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Ye minilik meskot /የምንሊክ መስኮት/
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Ankober megenteya
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Debre Birhan Silase Church | ደብረ ብርሃን ቅድስት ስላሴ ቤተክርስቲያን
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Debrebrehan
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Maybar,Lake
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Green Mesk garden | Senait Menafesha
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Essential places to dine
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Libo Siro
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Florida Café
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Selu cosmo
87.2 km
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Sancho Sport Materials
88.0 km
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You tube online
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Goldmoon Fashion
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Sualih brand fasion
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Atbiya shop
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Mahi ali yimer
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Decent Bar
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