ETHIOPIA - HIGH ALTITUDES

Simien Mountains Trek – Castles & Peaks

Summary of the Trip

Venture into the wild highlands of northern Ethiopia, where dramatic escarpments meet medieval castles and rare wildlife roams free. This journey blends the cultural riches of Gondar’s ancient churches and castles with the natural wonders of the UNESCO-listed Simien Mountains. Trek through breathtaking scenery, spot iconic Gelada baboons and Walia ibex, and camp beneath star-filled skies. Each day offers a fusion of adventure, history, and authentic Ethiopian hospitality. For lovers of epic landscapes, cultural immersion, and off-the-beaten-path experiences, this trek reveals Ethiopia’s wild, high-altitude heart in unforgettable style.

The Experience

Begin in Gondar, exploring the legendary castles of Emperor Fasilidas and the beautifully painted Debre Berhan Selassie Church. Then journey into the Simien Mountains, where rugged escarpments, deep valleys, and sweeping vistas await. Trek with expert guides along dramatic ridges, encountering herds of Gelada baboons and searching for the elusive Walia ibex. Marvel at the thunderous Genbar Waterfalls and spend nights camping beneath the stars or relaxing in Africa’s highest lodge. Each day is a blend of natural wonder and cultural discovery, with opportunities for wildlife encounters, panoramic views, and warm Ethiopian hospitality.

HIGHLIGHTS

MOUNTAIN TREKKING, EPIC LANDSCAPES, ENDEMIC WILDLIFE, ANCIENT CASTLES AND CHURCHES, CULTURAL IMMERSION, OFF-THE-BEATEN-PATH ADVENTURE, STARRY NIGHTS AND CAMPING IN NATURE

WHAT’S INCLUDED

  • All accommodations & meals 
  • All domestic flights per itinerary
  • 4×4 transportation with driver and fuel
  • All entrance, park, and guide fees
  • Airport transfers at start and end of tour

DAY BY DAY

Itinerary is subject to change

Days 1–2

Castles, Culture & Into the Highlands

Arrive in Addis Ababa and fly to Gondar, Ethiopia’s “Camelot.” Explore Emperor Fasilidas’s castles and the vibrant Debre Berhan Selassie Church. After a restful night, drive to Debark and meet your trekking team. Begin your Simien adventure, hiking through dramatic escarpments, spotting Gelada baboons, and camping under a canopy of stars in the heart of the mountains.
Day 3

Waterfalls, Wildlife & Africa’s Highest Lodge

Set out along breathtaking ridges, hiking toward the spectacular Genbar Waterfalls. Along the way, watch for Lammergeiers soaring overhead and Gelada baboons grazing on the cliffs. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the wild, then transfer to Simien Lodge—the highest lodge in Africa—for a well-deserved evening of comfort, relaxation, and panoramic mountain views.
Day 4

Sunrise Trails & Return to Gondar

Wake early for a sunrise hike around the lodge, taking in sweeping views and searching for endemic wildlife. After a hearty breakfast and time to soak up the scenery, check out and drive back to Gondar. Conclude your journey with a traditional Ethiopian dinner and live music before your onward transfer to the airport or hotel.

FAST FACTS

Beyond the Safari Jeep

Extra hiking days in the Simien Mountains
Day trip to the Blue Nile Falls from Gondar
Pair with our “Exploration of the Senses” Ethiopian itinerary
Explore the unique landscapes of the Danakil Depression

Why we love it

“The Simien Mountains rank among our top trekking experiences – this journey combines pure adventure, ancient history, and wild encounters rolled into one unforgettable expedition.” – The Nomad Africa Team

When to travel

Best from October to early May for clear skies and comfortable trekking conditions. The landscape is lush and green from September to January, just after the rains, making this an especially scenic time for hiking. Avoid June to September, when heavy rains make trails muddy and some routes impassable.

Related Experiences

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Book your trip with Nomad today, you will get everything in the itinerary listed above and much more. Our goal is to make your trip dreams come alive.

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