EXCURSION MENAGESHA FOREST

The Menagesha Suba Forest Park is located 55 km South-West of Addis Ababa. Established by King Zera Yacob as the crown forest in the 16th century, it is considered to be the oldest state park in Africa. The Menagesha Forest is dominated by Ethiopian Junipers (Juniperus Procera), the oldest tree is estimated to be 200 years old. Other plants in the forest are; the Podocarpus, Hagenia Abyssinica, and Palm Trees. The Menagesha forest is a sanctuary for native trees and understory vegetation and some of the trees reach 30 meters and more. The park is a shelter for different wildlife some of which are endemic to Ethiopia. The major mammals are; the endemic Menelik Bushbuck, Colobus Monkey, Olive Baboons, Warthog, Abbott’s Duiker, and Klipspringer. At nighttime, Hyenas, Leopards, Genets, and Mongooses often show up. This natural forest is a paradise for endemic forest birds: Barred Barbican, Abyssinian Lovebird, Ethiopian Oriole, Abyssinian Catbird, Abyssinian Woodpecker, Turaco, and some fascinating birds of prey. This is the perfect place to connect with nature and travelers enjoy hiking, bird watching, forest walking, camping, and picnicking in this forest. The scenic landscape and the beauty of the forest attract visitors’ attention.