Day trek to Simien Mountains
ET
50% of travellers recommend this
Highlights
- Stunning views over the foothills 800m below
- Up-close encounters with endemic gelada baboons
- Spotting of rare wildlife species like the Walia ibex and Simien fox
- Witnessing the incredible 500m Jinba waterfalls
- Opportunities to observe different bird species including the Ethiopian endemic Abyssinian Catbird
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Duration 6 to 8 hours
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Professional Guide included
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Lunch provided
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Bottled water included
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Air-conditioned vehicle
Embark on a thrilling day trek to the majestic Simien Mountains, a UNESCO-listed natural wonder that will leave you in awe. This off-the-beaten-track adventure starts with a drive from Gondar to Debark, where you'll obtain permission to enter the national park and meet your guide. As you trek along the edge of the mountains, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of chasmic valleys and towering peaks. Keep your eyes peeled for rare species like the Walia ibex and Simien fox, as well as troops of gelada baboons and other wildlife. The highlight of the trek is the Jinba waterfalls, a jaw-dropping 500-meter drop where you might spot different vultures and the magnificent Lammergeyer. Immerse yourself in Ethiopia's natural heritage and book this unforgettable journey into the heart of the Simien Mountains.
At a Glance
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Free cancellation
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6 hours
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Instant Confirmation
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Available in Spanish; Castilian, German, English, Italian, French
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Mobile voucher
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Small Group tour
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Guided
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Family friendly
Featured Reviews
Experience Ethiopia's natural beauty on a guided day trek through Simien Mountains National Park, home to rare wildlife and breathtaking views.
Included
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In-vehicle air conditioning -
Lunch
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Scout fee
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Professional Guide
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All Fees and Taxes
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Bottled water
Excluded
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Services which are not listed on the inclusion
Pickup
Check if pick-up is available from your location, you will select during checkout (providers may allow other pickup locations)
What to expect
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 to 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 10km to Sankaber camp, which is the first camping site in the national park. From Sankaber camp, we will trek for about 3 hours. You will trek along the edge with stunning views over the foothills 800m below. The trail passes most vegetated area in the park through a low bush of Giant Heather, Abyssinian Rose, Oliveria, and Globe Thistle. You will most certainly encounter troops of the endemic gelada baboons and see them up-close. You may also see Klipspringer, bushbuck, rock hyrax in the steep rocky and wooded slopes. Leopards live around here and you may have a chance to spot a leopard. The highlight of the trek is Jinba waterfalls, an incredible 500m sheer drop, the longest fall in Ethiopia. From the viewpoint opposite, you will see the different voltures such as Griffen Volture, Hooded Volture, Whitebacked Volture, Lappet-faced vulture and Lammergeyer along the cliff. Lammergeyer is one of the biggest bird prey in the world and feeds bone marrow. This area is the best place for lammergeyer to break the bone. This area is also good to see different small birds such as one of the Ethiopian endemic bird- Abyssinian Catbird. After the sightseeing, we get back to the main road (the place called Kavamesk) where the car stops to drive us to Gondar or Axum.
360 minutes
Admission Included
The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.
Additional Information
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Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap -
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
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Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
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Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
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Public transportation options are available nearby
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Service animals allowed
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Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
What our experts say
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Visit the local market on Wednesdays -
Bring sturdy hiking shoes for the trek
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Don't miss the breathtaking Jinba waterfalls
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Watch for endemic gelada baboons!
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Consider staying in Gondar for more sights
More About this Experience
Introduction
Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Ethiopia's Simien Mountains National Park with a day trek that will take you to the heart of this UNESCO-listed natural wonder. The Simien Mountains, with their dramatic valleys and towering peaks, are a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, providing a unique opportunity to encounter rare species such as the Walia ibex and Simien fox. As you explore this off-the-beaten-track destination, you'll be captivated by the park's rich biodiversity and stunning vistas, offering a true escape into Ethiopia's natural heritage.
What to expect?
During this day trek, you can expect to embark on a 360 to 480-minute adventure through the Simien Mountains National Park. The itinerary begins with a meet-up at either Gondar Airport or your hotel in Gondar. From there, you'll drive to Debark, the headquarters for the national park, to obtain the necessary permissions and meet your scout. Take a moment to explore the local market if time permits. The journey continues to the park gate, followed by a trek to the Sankaber camp, the first camping site in the park. Along the way, you'll encounter diverse vegetation, including Giant Heather, Abyssinian Rose, Oliveria, and Globe Thistle. Keep an eye out for the park's endemic gelada baboons, as well as other wildlife such as Klipspringer and rock hyrax. The highlight of the trek is the awe-inspiring Jinba waterfalls, offering a mesmerizing 500-meter sheer drop. From the viewpoint, you'll also have the chance to spot various vultures and small birds. After the sightseeing, the journey concludes with a drive back to Gondar or Axum.
Who is this for?
This day trek to the Simien Mountains National Park is perfect for nature enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and wildlife lovers of all ages. Whether you're a solo traveler looking to immerse yourself in the beauty of Africa's landscapes or a family seeking an unforgettable experience in the great outdoors, this trek offers something for everyone. The Simien Mountains' diverse flora and fauna, combined with its stunning natural scenery, make it a must-visit destination for those seeking an authentic and off-the-beaten-path experience in Ethiopia.
Why book this?
Embarking on this day trek is an incredible opportunity to discover the hidden gems of Ethiopia's Simien Mountains National Park. Unlike more popular tourist destinations, the park remains relatively untouched, allowing for a truly immersive and authentic experience. With its UNESCO World Heritage status, the Simien Mountains offer a unique chance to witness rare species like the Walia ibex and Simien fox in their natural habitat. The trek takes you along the breathtaking cliff edges, offering stunning panoramic views of the valleys below. Spotting gelada baboons, Klipspringer, and rock hyrax adds an element of excitement to the journey. The highlight of the trek, the Jinba waterfalls, will leave you awe-struck with its sheer drop and the opportunity to observe various vulture species up close. This day trek is an extraordinary adventure for those seeking to explore nature's wonders and create lasting memories in Ethiopia.
Good to know
It is essential to arrive at either Gondar Airport or your hotel in Gondar in the morning for a seamless start to the trek. Make sure to wear comfortable and sturdy footwear, as the terrain can be challenging at times. Carrying essential supplies such as water, sunscreen, and a hat is recommended. The trek duration ranges from 360 to 480 minutes, ensuring ample time to fully immerse yourself in the park's beauty. Don't forget to bring your camera to capture the breathtaking landscapes and wildlife encounters along the way. Lastly, remember to respect and preserve the natural environment by adhering to the park's rules and regulations.
Reviews
Feedback from previous trekkers highlights the mesmerizing beauty and unique wildlife sightings during the day trek to the Simien Mountains National Park. Travelers express their awe at the stunning views and the sense of tranquility the park offers. Many are amazed by the close encounters with gelada baboons and the opportunity to observe various vulture species up close. The Jinba waterfalls leave a lasting impression, with its sheer drop captivating trekkers. Overall, those who have embarked on this day trek describe it as an unforgettable and enriching experience that showcases the remarkable natural beauty of Ethiopia's Simien Mountains National Park.
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