The Simien Mountains Trek

14 days - from $2680

A trek into the isolated splendour of the Ethiopian highlands
The Simien is arguably the most beautiful mountain range in Africa. Vast and unique, the highland plateau is capped by a dramatic skyline of jagged volcanic plugs and split by deep gorges and gullies. The views across this landscape are breathtaking: the striking towers and formations having been described as 'the chess pieces of the Gods'. Our trek takes us to both the highland and rural lowland areas, with an ascent of Ras Dashen, the highest peak in Ethiopia at 4543m, and the fourth highest in Africa. A haven to many endemic species of wildlife and flora, including the Gelada baboon and Walia ibex, the Simien National Park has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

Itinerary:

Day 1 Start Addis Ababa; half-day tour of the capital including the Holy Trinity Cathedral and the Ethnographic Museum. 2 Fly to Gondar; tour castles and famous church of Debre Berhan Selassie. 3 Drive to Debark; start trekking to Buyit Ras Camp. 4 Trek to Geech via Jinbar Waterfall which drops 500m. 5 Day walk to Imetgogo (3900m) with fantastic views across the mountain range and valleys below. 6 Trek to Chennek via Enatyie Escarpment (4070m). 7 Trek to Ambiko with an ascent of Bwuhit (4430m). 8 Ascent of Ras Dashen (4543m). 9 Trek to Sona via village of Arkwasiye. 10 Descend to the lowlands (1000m), Ansiya Wenz River and on to Lamo Camp. 11 Continue through lowlands to Mulit Camp. 12 Short walk to Adi Arkay where the trek finishes; drive to Gondar. 13 Fly to Addis; farewell dinner. 14 End Addis Ababa.

Mode of travel: 10 days point-to-point walking with full porterage. Altitude maximum 4543m, average 3300m. Grade C.
Group size: Normally 7 to 18, plus leader and local staff.
Accommodation: 9 nights camping, 4 nights hotels.
Food: All breakfasts, 12 lunches and 11 dinners included.
Optional Single Supplement: from $140.00
Trip Reference: TYE
Reverse Itinerary: trips that run in reverse are specified with an 'R' in the dates and prices table below.
Trip Reference: TYE