Maze National Park

Maze National Park is a significant wildlife conservation area situated in the South Ethiopia Regional State, approximately 460 kilometers southwest of Addis Ababa and 248 kilometers from Hawassa, within the Gamo-Gofa Zone. Established in 2005 and managed by the Ethiopian Wildlife Conservation Authority, this savannah national park spans about 210 square kilometers. Its topography features elevations ranging from 1,000 to 1,200 meters above sea level, with the imposing Mount Gughe, rising to 4,200 meters, forming part of its boundary. The park derives its name from the Maze River, which flows through its entire length and eventually empties into the Omo River, contributing to the park's diverse riverine ecosystems.The park's landscape is characterized by expansive savannah grasslands interspersed with scattered deciduous broad-leaved trees and lush river basin associations along its watercourses. Prominent natural attractions include the Bilbo Hot Springs in the southern part, which are active geysers emitting hot water and steam, believed by locals to possess medicinal properties. In the northern region, the Wonja Stone Caves are natural rock formations capable of accommodating up to 300 people, historically used for community justice. Additionally, the Chosho Market hosts two ancient trees, known as “Kaouwo Welloa” or the king's tree, serving as a traditional judicial and religious site for the Gamo, Qucha, Gofa, and Omotic ethnic groups residing around the park.Maze National Park is globally recognized for its crucial role in conserving the critically endangered Swayne's Hartebeest (Alcelaphus buselaphus swaynei), being one of only three locations worldwide where a viable population of this endemic subspecies still exists, with estimates ranging from 300 to 1,000 individuals. The park is a haven for a rich array of biodiversity, recording 39 larger and medium-sized mammal species and 196 bird species. Beyond the Swayne's Hartebeest, visitors can encounter oribi, Bohor reedbuck, buffalo, warthog, bushbuck, waterbuck, greater and lesser kudu, bush pig, Anubis baboon, vervet monkey, lion, leopard, wild cats, and serval cat. The park's wetlands also support reptiles such as Nile crocodiles and monitor lizards. Birdwatching is a popular activity, with sightings of species like lilac-breasted and Abyssinian rollers, black-bellied bustard, four-banded sandgrouse, African fish eagles, Abyssinian ground hornbills, and the endemic Ethiopian oriole.Visitors to Maze National Park can engage in guided game drives, typically scheduled during the cooler hours of early morning or late afternoon, to maximize wildlife viewing opportunities across the central grassland corridor. Walking safaris and treks are also offered, providing an intimate experience with the park's natural environment and leading to sites like the Bilbo Hot Springs. The best time for wildlife viewing is generally during the dry season (November to February), when animals congregate around water sources and vegetation is less dense, offering clearer sightings.