Plizio Visual Lab

Sheka Forest

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Forest

Weather…

The Sheka Forest in southwestern Ethiopia is one of the last remaining large areas of pristine Afromontane rainforest and was designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 2012. The region is characterized by extreme topographical diversity, ranging from rolling hills to steep mountain ranges, and is renowned for its countless waterfalls and wetlands. The climate is defined by very high rainfall, making the forest one of the wettest places in Ethiopia and fostering an exceptional flora featuring giant bamboo and ancient towering trees. Culturally, the forest is inextricably linked to the Sheka people, who have lived in harmony with nature for centuries and protect sacred groves within the forest. These communities practice a sustainable form of forest management, focusing on the harvesting of wild coffee, spices, and honey without destroying the ecosystem. Geologically, the area is part of the southwestern highlands and features fertile soils of volcanic origin, which are crucial for the water retention of the entire region. The protection of the Sheka Forest is of critical importance for the preservation of rare bird species and mammals that find refuge in the dense thickets. For conservationists and researchers, the reserve serves as a living laboratory for studying plant adaptation to extremely moist conditions.

Location: Ethiopia
Nearby: Tepi (28 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan–Mar.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	18	19	20	19	18	17	16	16	17	17	17	17
Rain mm	31	52	96	193	292	272	239	254	231	184	112	54

📋 Practical info

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Getting there

The forest area is usually accessed via narrow dirt tracks branching off from main roads. A local guide is highly recommended to safely navigate the dense vegetation and find the best entry points.

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Best season

The dry season is typically the best time to visit, as the humidity is lower and the paths are solid. During heavy rains, the forest floor turns into deep mud, making walking extremely difficult.

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Terrain & paths

Expect a dense environment with uneven, root-covered trails that can be hard to follow. Navigating this natural woodland requires constant attention to your footing and a decent sense of direction.

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What to bring

Closed, water-resistant shoes and long, tear-resistant clothing are essential to protect against insects and thorns. Always carry strong insect repellent, reliable navigation tools, and plenty of water.

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Parking

Cars are typically left at the edge of the nearest settlement or informal clearings near the forest border. It is best to consult with locals to ensure the vehicle is parked safely without blocking paths.

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Safety

Getting lost in the dense undergrowth is a real risk, so it is highly advised to stay on visible trails. Always wear protective clothing against insect bites and inform someone of your planned route.

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Time needed

A standard visit to experience the dense ecosystem generally takes about three to five hours of walking. For a more comprehensive exploration of the woodland, plan to spend the entire day with a guide.

Geography

Coordinates

7.50000, 35.50000

Facts

Recognized as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 2012.
Annual rainfall can reach up to 2,000 mm per year.
The forest is home to over 300 different bird species.
A major site for giant bamboo forests (Arundinaria alpina).
Traditional protection through 'Sacred Forests' of the local people.
The reserve covers an area of over 230,000 hectares.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Tepi28 km · WExplore →

Teppi Coffee Estate29 km · WExplore →

Khenchela33 km · WExplore →

Hammam Essalihine38 km · WExplore →

Aïn Beïda46 km · NWExplore →

Mizan Teferi46 km · WExplore →

Oum El Bouaghi53 km · NWExplore →

Kefa Forest56 km · NExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What distinguishes the Sheka Forest?

It is one of Ethiopia's last intact primary rainforests with high biodiversity.

Are there any cultural specialties there?

The Sheka people have traditional taboos that protect the forest from deforestation.

Are the forests accessible to tourists?

Yes, but only with local guides, as there are few marked trails.

Can you go birdwatching there?

Absolutely, it is a paradise for ornithologists with many endemic bird species.

Is there a malaria risk in this area?

Due to the humidity, there is some risk; prophylaxis is recommended.

Sheka Forest: where is it located?

Sheka Forest is located in Ethiopia.

Sheka Forest: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar.

Sheka Forest: why is it worth visiting?

The Sheka Forest in southwestern Ethiopia is one of the last remaining large areas of pristine Afromontane rainforest and was designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 2012.

View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →