6 days in the Simien Mountains

6 days
T2 trails
Distance: 10 - 15 km per day
500 - 1000 m ascent per day

> Discover this World Heritage Site
> Encounter gelada baboon along the trek
> Climb to the peak of Ras Dejen

Ethiopians know it is as the roof of Africa, an awesome afro-alpine Plateau of grassy Meadows and ericaceous moorlands that rise to 4,533M at Ras Dejen. To biologists, it is the most important biodiversity hotspot in northern Ethiopia, populated by an alluring wealthy of endemic plants and animals, including the imperious Walia ibex, golden -maned gelada baboon and endearing Ethiopian wolf. Birders know it as the best place in the world to see the mighty lammergeyer, which is regularly seen soaring overhead, displaying its 2-meter wingspan.The 412 km2 Simien Mountains National Park is, no wonder, Ethiopia’s premier trekking and hiking destination.

Itinerary

Day
1

Gondar - Sankaber

An early start from Gondar takes us along a good gravel road to the park headquarters in Debark (100km, 3 hours by 4×4), where we obtain permits and meet our knowledgeable local guide and scout. We drive (1hour by 4×4) into the National Park before starting our first day introductory walk. This is an easy hike along the northern edge of the escarpment with impressive views over the foothills and plains of northern Ethiopia. You will encounter gelada baboon along this hike, and will be welcomed to Sankaber campsite (3250m) with tea and coffee, where your camp will be prepared in advance of your arrival.

Sankaber

Info
Sankaber
Day
2

Sankaber - Geech Camp

After a hearty breakfast we follow the northern escarpment eastward, before descending a little into the Kaba valley. We then climb to reach Geech Abyss and continue over a narrow ridge to a cliff, which reveals a spectacular view of the abyss and Simien foothills to the north. To the east we have striking views of a large waterfall, where the Jinbar River plunges 500m into the abyss. Two hours further on, we break for lunch on the banks of the Jinbar River. From the valley, we ascend through gelada baboon-filled fields of barley to reach the idyllic village of Geech. From Geech village it is a short walk to Geech camp (3600m), perched dramatically above the village and an excellent place to spot lammergeyer, black kite and thick-billed raven. After a relaxing afternoon (optionally punctuated by a coffee ceremony), we take a short hike to Kedadit (3760m) to enjoy the sunset and gorgeous shaded landscapes down the cliffs of the escarpment, before returning to camp for a freshly prepared dinner.

Geech Camp

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Geech Camp
Day
3

Geech Camp - Chennek

From Geech camp we pass endless fields of giant lobelia before the high pasture gives way to the towering cliffs of Imet-Gogo (3926m). (An optional extended route from Geech camp to Imet-Gogo meets the escarpment further north, at the gelada baboon-covered, 3785m-high viewpoint of Saha, before following the precipitous cliffs southwards up to Imet-Gogo.) Time spent at Imet-Gogo is rewarded by superb views over the mountain valleys below and the strikingly-shaped domes in the distance. We then descend into the Jinbar River Valley; the contrasting view of Imet-Gogo and the volcanic landscape from here gives the impression that vast chunks of the mountains have been blown-away. We climb from the valley to the summit of Inatye (4070m), a spectacularly scenic spot for lunch. After lunch we descend for about two hours along a steep trail to reach Chennek (3600m). We arrive at Chennek camp in plenty of time to appreciate the spectacular views in all directions, and to spot Walia ibex grazing close to the edge of the escarpment and sometimes skirting the edges of the campsite. The day concludes with a well-deserved dinner served in gratifyingly generous proportions!

Chennek

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Chennek
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Included

  • Transfers

    All necessary transfers (bus, taxi, private transport, etc.) as described in the itinerary are included.

  • Accommodation in tents

    During your trek, you will stay in tents. The crew will take care of setting up all camping equipment.

  • Meals

    This trek includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

  • Professional guide

    During your trek, you will at all times be accompanied by an English speaking guide.

  • Permits

    The cost of permits to enter the national park during your trek is included in the price.

  • Water

    Enough drinking water will be provided during the trip.

  • Muleteer

    A muleteer will be there to assist with transporting all the necessary equipment, luggage, food, etc.

Excluded

  • Traveling to and from

    This trip does not include costs for transportation (flights, bus travel, etc.) to your destination.

  • Tipping

    Gratuities for the guide are not covered by the trek's price. The amount to tip is at your discretion, yet if you've received excellent service from your guide, considering a generous tip is appreciated.

  • Travel Insurance

    Your international travel insurance is your own responsibility. It is important that your travel insurance also covers adventures at a high altitude. Discuss your itinerary with the insurance company before your trek.

  • Accommodation before and after the trek

    Before and after the trek you have to take care of your own accommodation.

  • Personal expenses

    Personal expenses such as souvenirs, drinks at the bar and other similar expenses are your own responsibility.

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Jan Bakker
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