Introduction
Experience the historic treasures of northern Ethiopia and the spectacular landscapes of the Simien Mountains on this six-day adventure. Begin with a day exploring Bahir Dar before traveling to Gondar to discover its remarkable royal heritage, historic castles and churches. Continue into the Simien Mountains National Park for three days of trekking and camping among dramatic escarpments, deep valleys and spectacular highland scenery.
Trek through Sankaber, Geech and Chenék, visit the famous Imet Gogo viewpoint, and look out for endemic Gelada baboons and other highland wildlife. This combination of history, culture, trekking, camping and wildlife offers an unforgettable experience in northern Ethiopia.
Tour Highlights
- Explore Bahir Dar and the beautiful Lake Tana area
- Discover the historic city of Gondar
- Visit the Royal Enclosure and Fasilides' Bath
- Visit Debre Birhan Selassie Church
- Travel through Simien Mountains National Park
- Trek through Sankaber and Geech
- Visit the Jinbar Waterfall area
- Hike to the famous Imet Gogo viewpoint
- Explore Chenék and its dramatic mountain landscapes
- Wildlife viewing, including endemic Gelada baboons
- Three nights of mountain camping
- Professional trekking guide and local support crew
- Experience the spectacular escarpments and highlands of northern Ethiopia
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Take a domestic flight from Addis Ababa to Bahir Dar in the morning. Upon arrival, meet your local guide and begin a full-day tour of Bahir Dar and its surroundings. Explore the city and experience the beautiful Lake Tana area, with time to discover local culture and important attractions according to your flight schedule and available time. Overnight in Bahir Dar.
After breakfast, drive from Bahir Dar to Gondar through the scenic highlands of northern Ethiopia. Upon arrival, begin a historical and cultural tour of Gondar. Visit the Royal Enclosure, Fasilides' Bath and Debre Birhan Selassie Church, along with other important historical sites according to available time. Overnight in Gondar.
After breakfast, drive from Gondar to Debark, the gateway to Simien Mountains National Park. Complete the park entrance formalities and continue into the mountains. Begin your first trek around Sankaber, enjoying spectacular views over the escarpments, valleys and surrounding highlands. Look out for Gelada baboons and other wildlife. Camp at Sankaber.
Continue trekking from Sankaber toward Geech through beautiful Simien highland landscapes. Walk along dramatic escarpments and valleys while enjoying panoramic mountain views. Visit the Jinbar Waterfall area and continue to Geech, where you will set up camp. Camp at Geech.
Trek from Geech through some of the most spectacular landscapes in the Simien Mountains. Visit the famous Imet Gogo viewpoint and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the escarpments and deep valleys. Continue toward Chenék, one of the most scenic areas of the park, with excellent opportunities for viewing endemic Gelada baboons and other wildlife. Camp at Chenék.
Begin the morning with an early walk around Chenék and enjoy a final opportunity for wildlife viewing and photography. After breakfast, drive back through the Simien highlands toward Gondar. Transfer to Gondar Airport for your domestic flight back to Addis Ababa, concluding the tour.
What's Included
- Domestic flight from Addis Ababa to Bahir Dar
- Domestic flight from Gondar to Addis Ababa
- Airport pickup and drop-off in Bahir Dar
- Airport pickup and drop-off in Gondar
- Private transportation throughout the tour
- Professional English-speaking local guide
- Professional Simien Mountains trekking guide
- Simien Mountains National Park entrance fees
- Local scout/ranger fees
- One night hotel accommodation in Bahir Dar
- One night hotel accommodation in Gondar
- Three nights mountain camping
- Camping fees and camping equipment
- Breakfast during hotel stays
- Full-board meals during trekking and camping
- Professional cook and trekking support staff
- Drinking water during trekking
- All listed sightseeing and activities
- Applicable government taxes and service charges
What's Not Included
- International flights
- Lunch and dinner in Bahir Dar and Gondar
- Personal expenses
- Alcoholic and soft drinks
- Tips and gratuities for guides, drivers and trekking staff
- Travel and medical insurance
- Personal trekking equipment
- Additional activities not mentioned in the itinerary
- Any services not specifically mentioned as included
What to Bring
- Comfortable hiking shoes
- Warm jacket and fleece
- Rain jacket or waterproof clothing
- Warm sleeping clothes
- Hat and sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Reusable water bottle
- Small backpack for trekking
- Personal medications
- Headlamp or flashlight
- Camera and extra batteries or power bank
- Personal toiletries
- Comfortable warm clothing for high-altitude areas
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation & Refund Policy
We understand that travel plans can change. Our cancellation policy is as follows:
- More than 7 days before departure: Refund of the refundable amount, minus any non-recoverable costs such as flights, hotels, permits, entrance fees, and prepaid services.
- 3–7 days before departure: Up to 50% refund of the refundable amount, minus non-recoverable costs.
- Within 72 hours of departure: No refund or travel credit.
- After the tour has started: Used or prepaid services are generally non-refundable.
- Non-refundable services: Flights, accommodation, permits, entrance fees, activities, and third-party services are subject to the supplier's cancellation policies and may not be refundable once booked and paid.
- If Mesob Ethiopia Tours cancels or reschedules a tour due to safety concerns or unforeseen circumstances, guests may choose rescheduling or a refund of refundable amounts, subject to non-recoverable costs.
Important: The final refund depends on the actual costs incurred and the cancellation policies of the suppliers involved. For full details, please visit the Cancellation & Refund Policy page on the Mesob Ethiopia Tours website.
Best For / Good to Know
This tour is ideal for travelers who want to combine Ethiopian history and culture with mountain trekking, camping and wildlife viewing.
The Simien Mountains are a high-altitude environment, and trekking conditions can vary depending on weather and local conditions. The itinerary may be adjusted by the guide when necessary for safety, weather, trail conditions or park regulations.
Trekking experience is helpful but not essential for travelers who are comfortable with several hours of walking in mountainous terrain.