Trekking The Simien Mountains: an Overview

Once described as the 'chess pieces of the Gods', the towering spires, volcanic pinnacles, huge gorges and gullies and vast rock formations of the Simien Mountains in Ethiopia's northern highlands form part of one of Africa's most beautiful mountain ranges.

Amelia and Ra are here to help give you the inside track.

Why we think you’ll love it

One of the main draws to trekking in the Simien Mountains is the fact that it is still comparatively underdeveloped, meaning fewer fellow trekkers and very little to distract you from the breathtaking scenery all around.

The area is also known for its wildlife, from the thousands of Gelada Baboons which roam the park, to the elusive Ethiopian Wolf and the Lammergeyers which soar on the mountain thermals among hundreds of other bird species.

Trekking in the Simien Mountains

Treks can last anything from two hours to two weeks and range from gentle hikes to more strenuous mountain ascents and everything and anything in between. For the hardiest hikers, summiting the highest peak, Ras Dashen, takes the best part of a week. The team at Original Travel will ensure that the route you choose will get you to the best possible view points in the time you have and be suited to your level of fitness.

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Simien Mountains: the Detail

If trekking and camping isn't your cup of tea but you'd still like to see this beautiful part of the country, fear not, there is comfortable accommodation in the lovely Simien Mountain Lodge inside the park, and a new 4x4 track through parts of the park means more of it is accessible on day trips. The park is just a three hour drive from Gondar and a couple of days in the mountains are a great way to break up the cultural sites of the Northern Circuit.

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Original Highlight

If you have the time and the stamina on your trek, make sure you go to the peak of Imet Gogo as it offers one of the most incredible view points.

Ra, Original Traveller

A note on price

A two week tour of Northern Ethiopia costs from £3,505 per person based on two travelling. It includes international and domestic flights, transport, accommodation in four star hotels, a local guide and full board throughout. Learn more about our pricing