Things to do in

Simien Mountains National Park

Day 01: Drive From Gonder to Sankabor, Walk 3-4hrs around Sankabor Drive from Gondar or directly from the airport (depending on your arrival time) to Sankaber about 136km away. We will go via the park head office in Debark to register and pick up trek staff such as scouts, guides and cook if required. After trekking for 3 or 4 hours we return to the Sankabor camp (3250m) and stay overnight. Accommodation: Camping at Sankaber Day 02: Explore Simien Mountains – Ginbar water fall -Gonder Trek for 2.5 hours to 500m high Jinbar waterfall. Along the way, you will observe the splendid landscape and different kinds of flowers and trees. There is also a possibility to see a klipspringer and mini bushbuck. There are leopards in the area but they are rarely seen, however maybe you’ll be one of the lucky ones! Of course, the delightful gelada baboons are always around. After lunch, by the waterfall, the 4×4 picks us up to drive back to Gondar.

Embark on a 6-day trek through the Simien Mountains. Hike to the top of Ras Dashen, the highest peak in Ethiopia, and take in the stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Day 1: Gondar to Sankaber Start your trek with a drive from Gondar to Michibiny. Stop at the Simien Mountains National Park headquarters to arrange the permit. Begin your trek with a 2-3 hour hike to Sankaber. Overnight at the campsite. Day 2: Sankaber to Gich Hike from Sankaber to Gich. Pass through highland grasslands, heather forests, and cultivated fields. Follow a spectacular escarpment with dramatic views. Encounter the friendly gelada baboons foraging in big groups. Reach the Jinbar Falls, a waterfall that plunges several hundred meters down the escarpment. Pass through the welcoming village of Gich. Overnight at the campsite. Day 3: Gich to Chennek Hike from Gich to Chennek. Pass through the Gich plateau, where the giant lobelia is abundant. Spot the majestic lammergeyer and the endemic thick-billed raven. Pass some major peaks and a deep valley. Reach Chennek, the best place to spot the endemic and endangered walia ibex. Overnight at the campsite. Day 4: Chennek to Ambiko Hike from Chennek to Ambiko. Hike up the Bwahit Pass and summit Bwahit, the second-highest peak after Ras Dashen. Reach the bottom of the valley of the Mesheha River before reaching Ambiko. Overnight at the campsite. Day 5: Ambiko to Ras Dashen Hike from Ambiko to Ras Dashen, the highest peak in Ethiopia. Take in the stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Return to Ambiko. Overnight at the campsite. Day 6: Ambiko to Gondar Hike from Ambiko to Chiro Leba. Drive back to Gondar.

Here's a 17-day itinerary for an Ethiopia tour covering Gondar, Simien Mountains, Bale Mountains, Omo Valley, Lalibela, Gondar, and the Danakil Depression: **Day 1: Arrival in Addis Ababa** - Arrive in Addis Ababa, transfer to hotel. - Explore the city's landmarks and cultural sites. **Day 2: Addis Ababa to Gondar** - Fly to Gondar, known for its medieval castles. - Visit Gondar's historical sites, including the Royal Enclosure. **Day 3-5: Simien Mountains National Park** - Drive to the Simien Mountains National Park. - Trek through stunning landscapes, spot wildlife like Gelada baboons and Walia ibex. - Camp overnight in the mountains, experiencing the unique beauty of the area. **Day 6-7: Bale Mountains National Park** - Drive to Bale Mountains National Park. - Explore the park's diverse ecosystems, including Afro-alpine moorlands and Harenna Forest. - Spot endemic wildlife like the Ethiopian wolf and Mountain Nyala. - Overnight camping or lodge accommodation in the park. **Day 8-10: Omo Valley** - Drive to the Omo Valley, known for its diverse ethnic groups and traditional cultures. - Visit villages of the Hamar, Mursi, and Karo tribes, experiencing their unique customs and ceremonies. - Explore local markets and interact with residents. - Overnight stays in traditional accommodations or campsites. **Day 11-13: Lalibela** - Fly to Lalibela, home to the famous rock-hewn churches. - Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site, marveling at the ancient churches carved into the mountains. - Visit nearby monasteries and cultural sites. - Overnight stays in Lalibela's guesthouses or hotels. **Day 14-15: Gondar** - Fly back to Gondar. - Explore any sites missed during the first visit, or take optional excursions. - Overnight stays in Gondar. **Day 16-17: Danakil Depression** - Drive to the Danakil Depression, one of the hottest and lowest places on Earth. - Visit sulfur lakes, salt flats, and active volcanic craters. - Experience the unique landscapes and geological formations of the region. - Overnight camping in the Danakil Depression. - Return to Addis Ababa for departure on the final day. This itinerary offers a comprehensive exploration of Ethiopia's diverse landscapes, cultures, and historical sites, providing an unforgettable travel experience through some of the country's most iconic destinations.

We will meet you in the morning at Gondar Airport or your hotel in Gondar. Drive from Gondar to Debark, which is the headquarter town for the national park. We will stop here to get a permission to enter the park and meet the scout. We will have tea and coffee break and visit the local market if we have time. The local market is open every day, and every Wednesday and Saturday is the big market day. From Debark town, we will drive to the park gate, which is about 16km from the town. Then, we are heading about 6km to Buit Ras, the first area of the national park. From Buit Ras, we will trek for about 3, 4 hours to Chilkuwanit which is one of the most beautiful viewpoints. This area offers stunning views over the escarpment dropping vertically. You will most certainly encounter troops of the endemic Gelada Baboons and see them up-close. You may also see common jackal, klipspringer and more. There are a lot of birds such as Thick-billed Raven, Augar Buzard, Black Kites, Lammergeyer and different plant species such as Abyssinian Rose, Erica Arboria tree, Euphorbia Species, St. Johns Worttree (Hypercumrevoltum) and so on. Our car will pick you up at Chilkuwanit and drive to Gondar

Experience the breathtaking Simien Mountains with our 2-night/3-day trek! Day 1. Begin in Gondar, where our driver or guide will warmly greet you & We'll pick you up in the morning Airport or Hotel and drive 100 km to Debark, the National Park's headquarter. After a scenic 2-hour drive, we'll stop in Debark to obtain permission to enter the park and take a refreshing tea or coffee break. If time allows, we can explore the local market, known for its vibrant atmosphere on Wednesdays and Saturdays. From Debark, we'll drive 16 km to reach the park gate, followed by another 6 km to the starting point of our trek. The starting point can be customized based on your interests and available time. As we hike, you'll be treated to stunning views of the escarpment and encounter various plant and bird species. Keep an eye out for the fascinating Gelada Baboon, as well as clipspringers, bushbucks, and other unique flora and fauna. Our trek will last approximately 4 hours until we reach Sankaber camp, located at an elevation of 3250m above sea level. Here, you can immerse yourself in the tranquil surroundings and appreciate the natural beauty. Day 2 . takes you from Sankaber to Chenek, where you'll witness the Jinbar Waterfall and summit Mt. Inatye at 4070m In the morning our adventure starts, after enjoying a delicious breakfast, we will begin our trek towards the awe-inspiring Jinbar waterfall. The trek will take approximately 2 hours, allowing you to witness the magnificence of the waterfall up close. Afterward, we will drive for 20 minutes to Aynameda before embarking on a 2-hour climb to reach Mt. Inatye 4070m absl. From there, we will trek along the scenic escarpment for 2 hours until we reach Chenek Camp, situated at an elevation of 3620m above sea level. You will spend the night at Chenek Camp, surrounded by the beauty of nature. During this day, you will have the incredible opportunity to spot the Endemic Ethiopian wolf, either around Mt. Inatye or at Chenek Camp. Keep your eyes peeled for this fascinating and rare species. Additionally, as we trek downhill, try to spot the Walia ibex, another endemic wildlife species that inhabits the area. Day 3, of Simien Mountains 3days trek... Conquer Mt. Buahit, the Park's 2nd Highest Peak at 4430m. Explore Chenek Camp, nestled at the base of this majestic peak. After a delightful breakfast, start your ascent of 800m to the peak, a 3-hour climb. Witness the diverse Afroalpine biodiversity, including Walia Ibex, Ethiopian Wolves, Gelada Monkeys, and a variety of birds. Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views from the peak and traverse the incredible trail along the ridge. Spot the distant Mt. Rasdejen across the horizon. Descend back to the camp for a packed lunch before a scenic 4-hour drive back to Gondar. Depending on your schedule, you may catch a late afternoon flight to Addis or choose to stay overnight in Gondar. Our package concludes with drop-off at your hotel or the airport."

This wonderful three-day two-centre tour lets you experience the greatest UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Ethiopia - the holy town of Lalibela and the great previous capital of Gondar. (NB An optional fourth day can visit the dramatic Simien Mountains) (NB also - this tour can be in the reverse order to what follows - Lalibela to Gondar OR Gondar to Lalibela) It starts in the mountain town of Lalibela which, many centuries ago, was the seat of power in Ethiopia, ruled over by priest/king Lalibela and where, in the late 12th century, were carved out the truly remarkable eleven rock-hewn churches. The tour then moves through wonderful countryside to Gondar, another previous capital of Ethiopia, that received many visitors from Europe at the time of its height in the 17th century, where the central Castle Compound gives evidence of great ruling power. Day one Most guests arrive by plane. This tour is flexible to your arrival, with an early lunch followed by a first visit to the unbelievable Lalibela churches. Your expert local guide will give you the finest experience possible. Later, after checking into your hotel, you'll have dinner in one of the most unusual restaurants you've ever seen, amid dramatic mountain scenery. Day two The morning is spent back in the rock-hewn churches with the same guide before an early lunch and a start to your picturesque road trip through ever-changing countryside. You'll stop for Ethiopian coffee as required and also for a short guided visit to the weaving community of Awra Amba where men and women share all essential tasks and where religious belief is at the individual's choice. After driving through more dramatic scenery, your arrival in Gondar sees a quick check in at a fine hotel before another memorable dinner with some fabulous Ethiopian dancing! Day three Today you have a full but flexible day of exploration of this historic city, with an expert local guide to show you the ancient Castle Compound and give you a vivid insight into the past glories of this 17th century stronghold. After a good lunch and some relaxation, you'll go to the most famous church in Ethiopia, Debre Birhan Selassie, whose interior is covered in ancient paintings showing the bible stories. Again you'll have a knowledgeable guide to explain everything. It's amazing! The day ends with a last cup of Ethiopian coffee and a warm farewell. Your accompanying guide will be happy to help you arrange your hotel for the night if you have not already done so. *Optional fourth day If you choose the four-day option that visits the dramatic Simien Mountains near Gondar, you will be driven through the countryside to this mountain area to see amazing scenery and unique wildlife. The endemic gelada baboons, living in large extended family groups, are easily seen and you can experience close but completely unthreatening encounters! A return to Gondar offers a third comfortable night and another fine dinner.

Day 1. starting with your arrival at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport. Our driver and guide will transfer you to your hotel, where you can rest before exploring the vibrant capital city. Visit attractions like the National Museum, Unity Park, and Adwa Museum to immerse yourself in Ethiopian history and culture. Day 2,take a morning flight to Gondar & drive to the Simien Mountains National Park.Begin a 4-hour trek to the first camp,surrounded by diverse plant & bird species & spot wildlife along the way. Day 3 The journey continues as you trek to the second camp,passing through scenic landscapes. Take a break at Jinbar River & ascend to Gich camp, situated at an altitude of 3600m.Enjoy the beauty of the Simien Mountains during the 6-hour hike. Day 4 brings more adventure as you trek from Gich to Chenek Camp,located at a higher altitude.Experience the Afroalpine moorland & hike to Mt.Imetgogo for panoramic views. Continue to Mt. Enatye,soaking in the stunning mountain vistas.The total trekking time is approximately 9 hours. Day 5 Climb to the summit of Mt. Buahit,the second-highest peak in the park,Descend to Mesha River & trek to the base camp of Mt. Rasdejen Ambiko.This challenging 10-hour trek covers around 20km. Rest well as the next day is the summit day. Day 6 begins with an early wake-up call to conquer Mt. Rasdejen, the highest peak in Ethiopia.the sunrise from the summit at 4543m above sea level. After a 5-hour ascent and 3-hour descent,savor lunch at the peak. Day 7 Descend back to Chenek Camp & drive to Gondar for a city tour.Overnight in Gondar. Day 8 Explore historical sites such as Debrebrhan Silassie Church & Fasiledes Bath,takes you a mid-day flight back to Addis Ababa & then catch a flight to Semera. Overnight in Semera. Day 9 start the Danakil trip,driving to the Danakil Depression.Visit Lake Giulietti & the salt mining activities of the Afar people.Explore unique volcanic landscapes,including Dallol & Lake Assal. Day 10 takes you to Hamedela & Erta Ale, a shield volcano with a lava lake. Observe the boiling lava & spend the night camping. Day 11 Witness the sunrise at the volcano & explore the pit craters.Return to camp,pack your gear & drive back to Semera. Catch a flight to Addis Ababa in the evening. Day 12, take a morning flight to Jinka for the Southern Omo Valley Tribal Tours.Visit the Mursi tribe known for their lip plates and explore Mago National Park. Overnight in Jinka. Day 13.Journey from Jinka to Turmi via Keyafer Experience a vibrant market & a sunset visit to a Karo village.if fortunate,a bull jumping ceremony Hamer tribe. Day 14,visit the Dasenech tribe in Omorate & cross the Omo River.Continue to Konso, renowned for its terracing. Overnight in Konso. Day 15.Drive from Konso to Arbaminch Explore Lake Chamo,the Fourty Springs,the Crocodile Ranch.Overnight in Arbaminch. Day 16 concludes the trip with a flight from Arbaminch back to Addis Ababa & your international midnight flight.

• Day one: Gondar - Debark - Sankaber  Your Ethiopian trekking adventure begins here with a two-hour drive to Debark, the entrance to Simien Mountains National Park. Get all the formalities and permits for visiting the famous Simien Mountains sorted before entering the park. Meet your personal cook and the scouts who will assist you throughout the tour, and collect your camping gear.  Continue on a one-hour drive on a rough road to Sankaber for your first hike of two to three hours to assist with acclimatization process. The first of many amazing views of the dramatic mountain range is sure to amaze you. Settle in for an overnight in the Sankaber camp.  • Day two: Sankaber - Geech Pack up your gear at Sankaber and meet your mule men before commencing the trek. Hike to Geech in five to six hours (11,800 feet, 8 miles), spotting many gelada baboons, klipspringer, and bush buck on the way. Walk along the escarpment before dropping down for impressive views. Eagles, vultures, and ravens are commonly seen here. On day two you'll also pass by Genbar Falls, an incredible 1,640-foot sheer drop of water. In the evening, climb Mount Kedadit (12,335 feet) for an unforgettable sunset. Overnight at the Geech campsite.  • Day three: Geech - Chenek - Gondar From the Geech campsite, trek back to Chenek. After lunch, drive back to Gondar to get dropped off at your hotel or any other address.

7 Days North Part of Ethiopia Tours that including Addis Ababa, Lalibela , Gondar & Bahirdar with best tour operator and Tour Guide, Rotate Ethiopia Tours #1 All inclusive 7 days lalibela and The bahirdar, gondar, From addis ababa, and Ends in addis ababa Day 01 addis ababa Visit trinity cathedral, resting place of emperor haile selassie.  tour the museum, a great introduction to ethiopian culture and history.  Make a short drive to entoto hills for a view of the city and visit maryam church. en-route, stop at Sheromeda traditional cloth market.  visit the mercato or the sholla market, two of addis ababa's main markets. overnight hotel -  new day hotel Day 02 addis ababa - bahirdar Fly to bahir dar on ethiopian airlines. take a boat tour on lake tana, the source of the blue nile, and tour ancient monasteries on the zege peninsula. We will visit two of the following monasteries: ura kidane mehiret, azwa maryam, mehal zege giorgis, and bete maryam. end the day with a sunset visit to bezawit hills overlooking the nile river. Overnight :- naky hotel Day 03 bahir dar - gondar Drive through the countryside to gondar.  Tour the royal enclosure, a unseco world heritage site featuring five castles built by a succession of Ethiopian kings beginning in the early 17th century.  Having survived several wars, including air raids during world war 2, the castles are a testament to the resilience of this once mighty empire.  Visit the church of debre birhan selassie, famous for its religious art and especially its iconic ceiling depicting angels. Overnight:- ag hotel Day 04 gondar- semien mountain national parks Morning after breakfast drive to the jagged panorama of the simien mountains national park, famed for its exclusive landscape, afro-alpine vegetation and unique wildlife, where you may spot the endemic Wallia Ibex, gelada baboon troops, bushbuck, klipspringer. then drive back to gonder. Overnight hotel:-ag hotel Day 05  gondar - lalibela Fly to lalibela on ethiopian airlines.  Tour the magnificent rock-hewn churches, a unseco world heritage site.  This group of eleven monolithic churches were carved directly into the stone mountainside at least 800 years ago.  This complex boasts the largest monolithic church in the world, a maze of passageways and tunnels, intricately carved reliefs, and fabulous examples of icon paintings. In the late afternoon, enjoy a traditional coffee ceremony and learn the process for baking injera. Overnight :- panaromic view hotel Day 06 lalibela For the morning we have : take a morning hike with mules to the 13th century rock-hewn monastery of mount asheton.  the walk provides wonderful views of lalibela and the surrounding countryside. a beautiful church continue with tour of lalibela’s churches in the afternoon.  Overnight :-panaromic view hotel Day 07 Depart to addis ababa In the morning fly back to Addis Ababa and shopping at souvenir shops. Evening fair well dinner and transfer to airport for departure.

1 Night/2 Days Tours In the beauty full Simien Mountains We provide more than just two options for the 1-night/2-day tour, each offering unique experiences and opportunities to discover the stunning national park. However, the final choice depends on the preferences of the majority in the group. While option one is commonly chosen for group tours, options two and three are more suitable for individual or private travelers who prefer to customize their experience. As experts in this region,we recommend considering options two or three as they allow for a deeper exploration of the park, including breathtaking views, climbing peaks reaching around 4000m above sea level & the chance to encounter wild animals more. To make the most of these options 2 & 3,clients need to be physically & mentally fit, as well as have enough time and budget at their disposal. By choosing options two or three, they can fully immerse themselves in the park's wonders. Option 1# On Day 1, you will drive from Gondar to Debark, the headquarters town for the national park. After signing up at the park office and meeting the park ranger and staff, you will drive 22km to the first area of the national park. From there, you will hike to Sankaber, enjoying the stunning views and observing various plant and bird species, as well as Gelada Baboons. Once you reach Sankaber, our chefs will be waiting to set up the tent, prepare snacks, and serve tea and coffee. In the evening, you will have dinner by the campfire and spend the night at Sankeber Camp. On Day 2, after a lovely breakfast with a beautiful sunrise, you will trek down to Jinbar waterfall. Along the way, you may spot wild animals such as Clip springer, Bush back, and vultures. After enjoying the magnificent Jinbar waterfall, you will trek back to where the car is waiting, have lunch, and drive back to Gondar. Option 2# On Day 1, you will drive from Gondar to Debark and stop at various interesting viewpoints along the way. You will also visit Jinbar waterfall before driving to Chenek Camp. At Chenek Camp, you will have the opportunity to spot the endemic Walia Ibex, a species found only in this national park. You will spend the night camping at Chenek Camp. Day 2, after breakfast, you will embark on a challenging climb up Mt. Buhait, reaching an elevation of 4430m. Along the way, you may encounter the Walia Ibex and Ethiopian wolf. From the peak, you will have a breathtaking view of the highest peak in Ethiopia, Mt. Ras Dejen. After trekking back to the camp, you will have lunch and then drive back to Gondar. contact us for the rest options details, tours.simien@gmail.com www.outstandingsimienmountainstours.com