Simien Mountains Trekking Tour

Duration: 7 nights and 8 days
Mode of transportation: Flight, Surface and climbing and Walking

Massive erosion over the years on the Ethiopian plateau has created one of the most spectacular landscapes in the world. The Simien Mountains are the most dramatic mountains scenery in Africa: This trek leads through landscapes covered by deep gorges, jagged plugs and striking rock towers. On route we climb some of Africa's highest peaks, spot very rare and endangered mammals and birds, walk through the afro-alpine forest and meet the remote communities live on the mountains.

• Day 01:

  Arrive in Addis and fly directly to Gondar, lunch will be in debark and process the permission and registration at the park head quarter. After wards drive to Sankaber. Overnightat the campsite of Sankaber.
  
  

• Day 02: Sankaber (3250 m) - Gich (3600 m)

  The first serious day of trekking starts from the beautiful situated campsite of Sankaber. Today's trek covers a distance of approximately 10 km and takes us around 6 hours straight walking. Right from the beginning the trek follows the spectacular escarpment. We will encounter gelada baboons, foraging in big groups, at the fields. A stunning viewpoint at the Jinbar Falls is reached after clambering a few rocks. This waterfall plunges several hundred meters down the escarpment in the abyss. At the end of the day we pass through the welcoming village of Gich where the local people prepare a well-deserved coffee. Overnight, camping at the campsite.
  
  

• Day 03: Gich - Chennek (3620 m)

  This is probably the most spectacular stage of the whole trekking, offering stunning views all the way. Today we walk for almost 8 hours to cover 12 km, including a short detour to Imet Gogo (3925 m). This summit offers the most exciting views, it is considered as one of the best scenic point Africa. The majestically lammergeyer might soar the skies in front of us and the endemic thick billed raven will be present. On our way to Chennek we pass some other major peaks (Inataye reaching 4070 meter) and a deep valley. Chennek is abundant with the giant lobelia and the best place to spot the endemic and endangered Walia Ibex. Overnight at Chennek campsite.
  
  

• Day 04: Chennek - Ambiko (3200 m)

  This day is one of the most challenging days of the tour. First hike up the Bwahit Pass (4200 m) and later will reach the bottom of the valley of the Mesheha River (2800 m) before reaching Ambiko. The 14 km distance will take at least 7 hours of walking. If there is a clear sky there will be a chance to see the glimpse of Ras Dashen (4533 m). On the way there is also a chance to spot the rare Ethiopian wolf. Overnight at Ambiko Campsite.
  
  

• Day 05: Ambiko

  This day is special as we climb up the highest point in Ethiopia. Ras Dashen (4533 m) is roughly a mere 5 hours/ 8 km away; it’s all the way up to the top. Reaching the top gives an amzing view of the remote lowland villages. Afterwards walk back to Ambiko takes about 3.5 hours. Overnight at Ambiko Campsite.
  
  

• Day 06: Ambiko – Chennek

  After the great experience a day earlier, walk back to Chennek. Try spot again the rare canid, Ethiopian Wolf. Camping at Chennek.
  
  

• Day 07: Chennek - Sankaber/ Simien Lodge/

  Meet the cars this morning and drive to Gondar for a city tour in the afternoon. Gondar was founded by Emperor Fasilides around the year 1635, and grew as an agricultural and market town. The medieval city of Gondar is registered by UNESCO as a world heritage site for its many picturesque ruins in the Royal Enclosure. In the other side of the city lies Fasiladas' Bath. Afterwards visit one of the finest churches in Ethiopia with its interior paintings Debre Berhan Selassie Church. Overnight in Hotel.
  
  

• Day 08: Gondar – Addis Ababa/ Flight/

  Morning flight to back to Addis and afternoon visit the largest open air market in Africa ‘Mercato’. Dinner will be served at a traditional restaurant with cultural dance show. The end of the tour.