Trekking & Hiking to Simien Mountains, the roof of Africa – 7 Days
Tour Overview:
Embark on a breathtaking 7-day trekking expedition through the Simien Mountains National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in northern Ethiopia. Traverse dramatic escarpments, deep valleys, and alpine meadows while encountering rare wildlife like Gelada baboons, Walia ibex, and soaring Lammergeyers. This challenging yet rewarding journey culminates with a climb to Ras Dashen (4,533 m)—the highest point in Ethiopia.
Tour Highlights:
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Summit Ras Dashen (4,533 m), Ethiopia’s tallest peak
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Camp beneath the stars in remote and stunning mountain settings
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Observe Gelada baboons, Walia ibex, and endemic birdlife
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Trek through scenic villages, alpine valleys, and escarpment edges
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Enjoy spectacular viewpoints like Imet Gogo and Bwahit Pass
Day 1: Gondar – Debark – Sankaber | Begin Trekking
We depart from Gondar and drive to Debark, the gateway to the Simien Mountains National Park, to complete formalities and meet our local trekking team. From there, we travel by 4×4 to Sankaber, where we begin our adventure with an easy acclimatization hike along the dramatic escarpment.
Overnight: Camping at Sankaber
Day 2: Sankaber – Geech (6–8 hrs trek)
After packing up, we meet our muleteers and start our trek. The trail offers breathtaking views of the Geech Abyss, and we pass waterfalls and farmland before ascending to the village of Geech, where stunning panoramic views of the Simien range await.
Overnight: Camping at Geech
Day 3: Geech – Imet Gogo – Chenek (7–9 hrs trek)
We ascend to the summit of Imet Gogo (3,926 m), offering a 360° view over the escarpment and distant lowlands. The route may include Gidar Got and Saha. This area teems with Gelada baboons, and if we’re lucky, we may spot the elusive Walia ibex. We end the day at Chenek, a scenic campsite surrounded by high cliffs.
Overnight: Camping at Chenek
Day 4: Chenek – Ambiko (8–9 hrs trek)
Today’s trek takes us halfway up Bwahit Pass (4,430 m), from where we enjoy our first clear view of Ras Dashen. After admiring the scenery, we descend into the Mesheha River valley, cross the river, and climb to the village of Ambiko, located at the base of Ras Dashen.
Overnight: Camping at Ambiko
Day 5: Summit Ras Dashen (4,533 m) – Return to Ambiko (8–10 hrs)
We start early for the summit of Ras Dashen, trekking through high-altitude vegetation and giant lobelia forests. After a short scramble to the summit, enjoy breathtaking views stretching into Eritrea on a clear day. We descend carefully and return to Ambiko.
Overnight: Camping at Ambiko
Day 6: Ambiko – Drive to Gondar
After breakfast, we meet our driver and make our way back to Gondar. After six days on the trail, a hot shower and a comfortable bed await.
Overnight: Hotel in Gondar
Day 7: Fly Gondar – Addis Ababa – Departure
This morning, fly back to Addis Ababa. Depending on your departure schedule, optional sightseeing or shopping can be arranged. Evening transfer to the airport for your international flight.
Includes:
- Airport transfers and road transport by private car
- Full board, including mineral water.
- Full camping equipment including tents, mattresses and sleeping bags for camping and trekking.
- Recommended to bring your own sleeping bag.
- Fees for entrances, local guides, compulsory scouts/ security personnel for activities mentioned in the itinerary.
- All government taxes for the services included in the tour price
Excludes:
- Additional food and drinks
- Personal expenses
- Souvenirs
