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Simien Mountans National
Park & Gondar - 6 nights
The vast Simien Mountains
National Park is majestically situated in one of Africa's largest
ranges. Ras Dashen is Africa's 4th highest peak (4543m). Mule
trekking is the mode of transport to view the Simien National Park
as terrain is very challenging. The views over the valleys and
mountains from are awe-inspiring. Starting at the Sankabar campsite,
the mule trek covers the most impressive part of the trip in terms
of scenery. Three of Ethiopia's endemic large mammals are resident
in the Simien Mountains National Park. The Gelada baboon is the most
common of these, with an estimated population of 7000. The rare
Ethiopian wolf, also found here has a small population of about 50
animals. The Walia ibex was poached close to extinction in the late
1960s and there are about 1000 animals left. Hikers quite often see
Walia ibex from the trail running along between Geech and Chenek.
Visitors should be prepared for extreme temperatures. Maximum day
time temperatures are approximately °C and evenings drop down to °C.
October, November and December are the coldest months with
temperatures below freezing. The rainy season is June to September
where several rivers flood. The best time for trekking is January
till May and October till December.
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Itinerary: 6 nights
DAY 1: Addis Ababa
Arrive in Addis Ababa, the Ethiopian capital. Our agents will meet
you at the Bole International airport and transfer you to your
hotel. Overnight stay at the Ghion Hotel. (Dinner)
DAY 2: Addis Ababa – Gondar – Geech campsite
Transfer to the airport your check in for your flight to Gondar, a
remarkable town founded in 1632 by the great Emperor Fasilidas.A 3 ½
hour drive from the Gondar to the outback town of Debark, the access
town for the Simien Mountains National Park. In Debark the mules,
permits, supplies and guides are organised. Drive a further ½ hour
to Sankabar ascending gradually. A three hour hike brings you to the
Geech campsite (3660 m) on the precipitous Simien escarpment, where
there are wonderful views of the mountains and gorges. At Geech
Abyss there is a waterfall and great sightings of Egyptian Vultures
and Lammergeyers soaring effortlessly over the gorge. The trek
passes through cultivated areas and into true Afro-alpine
vegetation, where Giant Lobelias stand like sentinels presiding over
the eerie landscape. This is the place to hopefully see the Gelada
Baboons, famous for their leonine manes and “bleeding heart”
patches. For birders you may get the chance to tick off Rueppell's
Griffons, Rockchats and Choughs. Organised camping at Geech campsite
(full board).
DAY 3: Geech – Imet Gogo – Geech
More mule trekking from Geech camp to Imet Gogo (3990 m). This is
where you may well see the rare Walia Ibex who browse the
inaccessible cliff faces. Breathtaking views from Gidgergot and two
other peaks Kadadit (hole in the rock) and Saaha. Organised camping
at Geech campsite (full board).
DAY 4: Geech – Chenek campsite
Hike along the escarpment to Inatye, a viewpoint with breathtaking
views. Then resume walking along the trail to Chenek campsite
(3700m), passing Giant Heath (trees) along the way. Although this
route is more strenuous it is very scenic. Chenek campsite has a
small hut providing shelter for cooking and a deck with spectacular
views. Organised camping at Chenek campsite (full board).
DAY 5: Chenek campsite – Gondar
Transfer by vehicle and drive to Gondar (5 hours). Visit the Royal
Compound in the afternoon. Gondar was the royal capital of Ethiopia.
Explore the castles and Emperor Fasilidas bathing pool. From here it
is a short walk to the Debre Birhan Selassie church, possibly the
most famous church in Ethiopia with breathtaking murals on the
ceiling. Overnight Goha hotel. (Full board).
Goha Hotel ***
This 64 room hotel is built on top of a hill with great views over
the city. A very basic hotel with a restaurant. Please note that hot
water is not always available. Goha Hotel is also part of the Ghion
Hotel chain. Large veranda great for sundowners.
DAY 6: Gondar – Addis Ababa
Transfer to the airport and fly to Addis Ababa. Balance of the day
spent souvenir-shopping, visiting the colourful and vast Merkato
market. Overnight stay at the Ghion Hotel. (Full Board)
DAY 7: Flight out
Transfer to the airport and fly out.
Prices include:
International flight ex Johannesburg and internal flights with
Ethiopian airlines, hotel accommodation and meals as indicated,
organised camping with all equipment, airport-hotel transfers, all
excursions to sites of interest as per itinerary, English speaking
guides for all places, cook and mule and scouts.
Not included:
Visa fees, drinks, tips, personal expenses, travel insurance and
airport taxes
Please note:
Porters or pack animals carry most of the gear and camp supplies. No
technical climbing is required. You should be equipped with a spirit
of adventure and a willingness to undergo the potential hardship of
outdoor living and long days on the trail.
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Below is an approximate price per person sharing (October 2007):
ex Johannesburg: US$ 3122Euro 2404
ex Addis Ababa US$ 2548 Euro 1962
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