Gambela National Park

Gambela National Park is a protected area in southwestern Ethiopia covering grasslands, wetlands, and river forests across approximately 5,000 square kilometers. The park stretches along the Akobo, Baro, and Gilo Rivers at elevations ranging from 400 to 768 meters (1,312 to 2,520 feet).

The government established this protected area in 1974 to safeguard endangered animals such as the Nile lechwe and white-eared kob antelopes in their natural habitat. This decision marked an important effort to prevent the loss of these species to hunting and habitat destruction.

The Nuer and Anuak people live within and around the park, maintaining their pastoral traditions in these lands. Their presence shapes daily life in the region and demonstrates how communities coexist with the wildlife here.

The easiest access is by charter flight from Addis Ababa to Gambela town, as overland travel involves difficult and remote roads. Visitors should plan for longer travel times and hire local guides to explore the park safely.

The park hosts one of Africa's largest animal migrations, with white-eared kob antelopes forming enormous herds during the rainy season from May to October. This annual movement is among the continent's most dramatic wildlife spectacles.