The Simien Mountains are remarkable as being one of the few spots in tropical Africa where snow regularly falls. Because of their geological origins, the mountains are almost unique, with only South Africa ‘s Drakensberg range having been formed in the same manner and thus appearing similar. Notable animals in the mountains include the walia ibex, gelada, and caracal. There are a few Ethiopian wolves.

Simien Mountain – 6/7  Day Trekking & Hiking

The dramatic skyline of peaks and jagged volcanic plugs, which tower over the highland plateau of the Simien Mountains compete with rugged gorges and deep gullies to form what is, arguably, the most awe-inspiring landscape in Africa. As we trek through this distant mountain range we pass small hamlets where villagers eke out an existence from the limited arable land. We may come across large troops of Gelada baboons foraging on the escarpment; and, with luck, spot Walia ibex and Ethiopian wolves.

Day-By- Day itinerary

Day 01 – Gondar to Sankaber:
You will depart early morning from Gondar to Debark. In debark you will arrange your visit with the park office and receive a scout and guide then drive into the park to arrive at Sankaber. You can either drive all the way in to Sankaber or have the car drop you off near Buyit Ras for a short hike. If you choose to hike in you will take in beautiful views of the landscape and the endless mountain ridges, and you likely see some gelada baboons. When you arrive in Sankaber you will be met with your supplies. Sankaber will be the first campsite on your trip.

Day 02 – Sankaber to Geech Camp:
From Sankaber you will begin hiking following the ridge and look out over the foothills 800m down. From the ridge you will descend down into the valley and be able to view the Jinbar River plunging into the Geech Abyss. After some time at the waterfall you will continue on to Geech village where you will find your second campsite.

Day 03- Geech to Chennek: 
After breakfast you will start off on a 7-8 hour hike of the best views you will see in the Simien Mountains. In route you will pass through Imet Gogo. Here you will have reached an altitude of 3,926m and be able to look out at the amazing landscape from 360 degrees. At this height and view point you can see the canyon below, distant ridges, and view the seemingly never ending valleys. After Imet Gogo you will hike to the viewpoint at Innateye valley at an altitude of 4,070m. Lunch will be here and then you will descend to Chennek (3,600m) for your third campsite.

Day 04 – Chenneck to Ambiko:
After breakfast you will hike for 2 hours and summit the Buwahit pass (4,200m). From here you can look out towards your hike for tomorrow, Ras Dashen. You will follow the path down towards Meseha valley and cross a river and back up again towards Ambiko where you will camp for the night.

Day 05 – Ambiko to Ras Dashen to Ambiko:
The big trek to the peak of Ras Dashen will begin with an early morning walk through the main valley before sunrise. Then you will start ascending the mountain with a steep climb amidst the Giant Lobelia plants. The last part of the hike will likely be very challenging, but very rewarding when you are able to reach the highest point in Ethiopia. At 4,543m you will have amazing views of the immense landscape. After approximately 8-9 hours of hiking for the day you will arrive at Ambiko campsite for the night.

Day 06 -Ambiko (3200 m) – Chennek (3600 m) walking 7-8 hours.
Another long day that takes you back from Ambiko down to the Meseha River at 2,750m, before ascending again to the small village of Chiroloba , where we will have lunch then we start clamping up the buwahit pass (4430) and then walk an hour walk down to Chennek camp site stay overnight in Chennek / drive back to Gondar for overnight .

Day 07 –
Drive from Chenek to Gonder via Debark, about five hours driving.

The post Simien Mountain – 6/7  Day Trekking & Hiking appeared first on Traverse Afrika.