6-DAY SIMIEN MOUNTAINS NATIONAL PARK TREKKING EXPEDITION

Gondar – Debark – Sankaber – Gich (3,600 m)

Trekking Time: Approximately 5–6 hours.

Depart early from Gondar and drive approximately 100 km to Debark, the gateway to Simien Mountains National Park. At the park headquarters, complete the necessary registration and entrance formalities and meet your compulsory park scout.

Continue by vehicle to Sankaber, where the trek begins. Follow the spectacular escarpment trail toward Gich, enjoying expansive views of mountain ranges, deep valleys, and dramatic cliffs.

Along the way, visit the viewpoint overlooking the Jinbar waterfall, which plunges into a deep gorge. Enjoy a picnic lunch at a suitable spot along the trail before continuing through the highland landscape toward Gich village.

If time permits, visit a traditional home to experience an Ethiopian coffee ceremony and learn about the daily life of the local community.

Arrive at Gich campsite in the afternoon, settle in, and enjoy dinner prepared by your trekking cook.

Overnight: Gich campsite (approximately 3,600 m).

Gich – Imet Gogo – Chenek (approximately 3,600 m)

Trekking Time: Approximately 7–8 hours.

After breakfast, begin trekking through open Afro-alpine meadows filled with giant lobelias and other high-altitude vegetation. The trail leads to the spectacular viewpoint of Imet Gogo (approximately 3,926 m), one of the finest panoramic viewpoints in the Simien Mountains.

Pause to admire the extraordinary mountain formations, sheer cliffs, and deep valleys stretching into the distance. Continue along the escarpment toward the Jinbahir River valley, where the rugged terrain reveals the dramatic geological history of the mountains.

Climb to a high viewpoint of approximately 4,070 m, where you can enjoy a well-earned lunch while taking in the scenery. After lunch, descend along the mountain trail toward Chenek.

Chenek is an excellent area for wildlife observation. Look for the endemic Walia ibex on rocky slopes and Ethiopian geladas moving in groups across the grasslands. Birdwatchers may also spot highland species such as the thick-billed raven and bearded vulture.

Arrive at camp in the afternoon and enjoy the mountain scenery before dinner.

Overnight: Chenek campsite (approximately 3,600 m).

Chenek – Mount Bwahit (4,430 m) – Sona (approximately 3,100 m)

Trekking Time: Approximately 6–7 hours, depending on the route and conditions.

Start early after breakfast for a challenging trek toward Mount Bwahit, one of the highest peaks in the Simien Mountains. The ascent passes through rugged highland terrain and rocky slopes, with magnificent views of the surrounding peaks and valleys.

At higher elevations, look for Walia ibex and other wildlife adapted to the harsh mountain environment. Weather permitting, enjoy impressive views from the upper slopes of Mount Bwahit before beginning the descent.

Continue along the mountain trail toward Sona, passing through rocky landscapes, steep slopes, and remote highland scenery. The descent offers changing perspectives of the dramatic escarpments and distinctive mountain formations around Imet Gogo.

Arrive at Sona campsite near the local community and school. Relax after the day's demanding trek and enjoy a freshly prepared dinner.

Overnight: Sona campsite (approximately 3,100 m).

Note: The Mount Bwahit summit route is strenuous and may require additional time. Confirm the route with your local guide and park scout.

Sona – Insia River – Mekarebia (approximately 2,200 m)

Trekking Time: Approximately 6–7 hours.

After breakfast, leave Sona and descend through rural settlements and beautiful mountain slopes toward the lower valleys. As you lose elevation, the landscape gradually changes from cool Afro-alpine vegetation to warmer, greener terrain.

Follow the trail downhill for several hours until you reach the Insia River area. This is a pleasant place to rest, enjoy the natural surroundings, and, when water levels and conditions are safe, take a refreshing swim.

If available, meet local residents and enjoy a traditional coffee ceremony. You may also have time to relax by the river and wash a few lightweight clothes before continuing.

After lunch and a rest, continue along the trail toward Mekarebia. The route passes through bushland, small valleys, and attractive rocky formations, offering a different perspective on the Simien Mountains.

Reach the campsite in the late afternoon and enjoy dinner in the peaceful surroundings.

Overnight: Mekarebia campsite (approximately 2,200 m).

Mekarebia – Derek Wonz – Awasza – Mulit (approximately 1,800 m)

Trekking Time: Approximately 6–7 hours.

Today, continue through the warmer lowland landscapes toward Mulit. The trail follows the river system, with several river crossings that make the journey adventurous and rewarding.

Enjoy the diversity of birdlife along the riverbanks and look out for local plants and wildlife. Stop at Derek Wonz, a natural swimming pool, where conditions permit swimming and resting. Enjoy a picnic lunch and take time to appreciate the tranquil surroundings.

In the afternoon, continue toward Awasza village, followed by a final walk across grassy terrain to Mulit campsite.

After arriving, settle into camp and celebrate the final trekking evening with your guide, cook, scout, and trekking crew. If appropriate and welcomed by the local community, enjoy traditional Ethiopian music and eskista dancing around a campfire, subject to local rules and fire safety conditions.

Overnight: Mulit campsite (approximately 1,800 m).

Mulit – Adi Arkay – Gondar

Walking Time: Approximately 2 hours.

Driving Time: Allow a substantial part of the day.

Enjoy breakfast at camp before beginning the final walk from Mulit toward Adi Arkay, where your vehicle will meet you. The walk usually takes around two hours, depending on the trail and pace.

After meeting your driver, begin the return journey to Gondar. Along the way, admire the green hills, forested slopes, and winding mountain roads. Depending on the route and time available, you may pass through the scenic Limalimo road area near Debark.

Arrive in Gondar in the afternoon or evening, depending on road conditions and the exact pickup arrangements.

End of the six-day Simien Mountains trekking expedition.

TOUR PRICE AND INCLUSIONS

Tour Price: US$1,205

Please confirm whether this price is per person or per group before publishing.

Included in the Price

Transportation arrangements for the trekking route, including the return transfer from Adi Arkay to Gondar.

Food and drinking water during the trek, including freshly prepared meals.

Professional English-speaking trekking guide.

Cook to prepare fresh meals throughout the trek.

Compulsory park scout or ranger services.

Simien Mountains National Park entrance and camping fees.

Mules and muleteers to transport camping equipment and luggage between camps.

Camping arrangements for five nights on the trekking route.

Items to Confirm

Transportation from Gondar to Sankaber on Day 1.

Any domestic flights or transfers to and from Axum, if applicable.

Personal sleeping bag, sleeping mat, and other camping equipment.

Tips, personal expenses, alcoholic beverages, and emergency evacuation costs.

RECOMMENDED TREKKING EQUIPMENT

Waterproof hiking boots with good ankle support.

Warm fleece, thermal layers, and a down jacket.

Waterproof jacket and trousers.

Sun hat, warm hat, gloves, and sunglasses.

Sunscreen and personal toiletries.

Reusable water bottles or a hydration system.

Daypack and waterproof pack cover.

Headlamp, spare batteries, and power bank.

Personal medication and a basic first-aid kit.

Sleeping bag suitable for cold mountain nights.

Trekking poles, especially for long descents.

Binoculars and a camera for wildlife and landscape photography.