Focus: Trekking, Site Seeing, Nature, Scenery, Wildlife
Destination: Simien Mountains National Park
Mode of transport: Surface + Flight + Trekking
Embark on an unforgettable adventure in the majestic Simien Mountains National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This thrilling trekking experience takes you through the park’s rugged terrain, offering breathtaking views and challenging hikes. The journey begins at Chequanit, followed by stops at Sankaber, Geech, Chenek, and Ambiko, where you’ll camp under the stars. Along the way, you’ll encounter Gelada Baboons and Walia Ibex at Geech, and Lammergeyers and Ethiopian Wolves at Chenek. The highlight of the trip is the ascent to RasDejen, the highest peak in Ethiopia, where you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. As you hike through lush meadows, misty forests, and Giant Lobelia plants, you’ll return to your campsites each day to relax and rejuvenate in the tranquility of the mountains.
Itinerary
Arrive in Gondar and meet your guide, begin your journey with a scenic drive to the Simien Mountains National Park, stopping at Debark to obtain entrance permits and meet your scouts. Continue driving to the main gate of the park, then proceed to Chequanit, the starting point of your trek. After a brief stop at Chequanit, embark on your first hike, navigating through cultivated areas and gently sloping fields. The trek will take you through the rolling hills and scenic landscapes, gradually ascending and descending, as you make your way to Sankaber, your overnight campsite.Overnight camping
On this day, venture into the Simien Mountains for a 6-7 hour trek that will take you through lush meadows, dense forests, and cultivated landscapes. Along the way, you may have the thrilling encounter with a troop of Gelada Baboons around Sankaber. Take a short detour to the edge of the abyss to catch a glimpse of the majestic Walia Ibex. Upon arriving at Geech, you'll find basic amenities, including a toilet and a nearby waterfall that's perfect for refreshing and washing away the day's sweat and dirt. Overnight camping
Descend into the valley, then ascend again, weaving through a tapestry of rolling hills and fields as you embark on a 5-6 hour trek. Along the way, take a moment to admire the breathtaking views of the lowlands below and the escarpment's edge to the west at KibranMetaya, a scenic spot just before arriving at Chenek. Upon arrival, you'll find a refreshing stream nearby and have the chance to spot Lammergeyers and Ethiopian Wolves roaming freely in this picturesque setting. Chenek is renowned as one of the best locations in the Simien Mountains for wildlife sightings, offering a unique opportunity to connect with nature's splendor.Overnight camping
Step onto atesting 7-8 hour trek that begins with a steep ascent to the summit, followed by a scenic stroll along the little-used escarpment path. The track will lead you southeast towards Ambiko, offering stunning views of the eastern escarpment as you make your way. Upon arriving at the Ambiko campsite, you'll be rewarded with a breathtaking vantage point, providing a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape. Overnight camping
As dawn breaks, you will venture up the majestic Ras Dashen, a tough 8-9 hour trek that demands physical endurance with a towering peak at 4533m. Our ascent takes us through the main valley, where Giant Lobelia plants stretch towards the sky. The trail grows steeper, offering breathtaking views around every bend. The summit's crowning glory awaits, with its stunning vistas. After absorbing the panoramic views from the top, we'll begin our descent back to Ambiko,Overnight camping
This day, you will undertake a scenic 7-8 hour trek back to Chenek, following the rugged escarpment of Bwahit Pass. As we make our way down, we'll have the opportunity to take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, with the valleys and villages unfolding beneath us like a tapestry. We'll pass through traditional villages, getting a glimpse into the daily lives of the local communities, and take in the vibrant colors and sounds of their culture. The descent will be a gentle one, allowing us to appreciate the beauty of the mountainside flora and fauna, as we make our way back to Chenek.Overnight camping
Begin the day with a return trip to Gondar, then make your way back to Addis Ababa in time for your scheduled flight. Upon arrival, take some time to rest and refresh at a hotel, where you can unwind and recharge. With a few hours to spare, feel free to explore the city, browse local shops for souvenirs, or simply take it easy. In the evening, join us for a farewell dinner at a traditional Ethiopian restaurant, where you'll be treated to a culinary journey through local flavors and culture. After dinner, we'll see you off at your final destination, marking the conclusion of your adventure.
