Duration
10-Day
Simien Mountains National Park, Ethiopia
10-Day Highlands of Ethiopia Simien & Bale Mountains Tour
Overview
This unforgettable 10-day journey combines Ethiopia's rich history with its most dramatic highland landscapes. From the historical capital of Addis Ababa to the breathtaking escarpments of the Simien Mountains and the pristine alpine wilderness of the Bale Mountains, the trip offers a perfect balance of culture, wildlife, trekking, and adventure.
Plan snapshot
Quick Facts
Route
Addis Ababa to Addis Ababa
Via Simien Mountains NP, Gondar (City), Bale Mountains NP
Country & park
Ethiopia / Simien Mountains National Park
Style
Safari
Group size
1-12 travelers
Starts
Any day if available
Minimum age
10 years
Activities
Getting around: normal 4x4 vehicle & air transfer
Accommodation
Sun View Addis Hotel - Mid-range hotel in Addis Ababa (City) – All Meals Included
Meals
All Meals Included
Pickup
Airport transfer included
Booking
Request quote
Currency
USD
Rates
Rates Per Person
USD
Start datesSingle2+ people
Jan 1, 2026 - Dec 31, 2026
$2,970 USD
$2,750 USD
Jan 1, 2027 - Dec 31, 2027
$2,970 USD
$2,750 USD
Before booking
Important To Know
Rates are per person and exclude the international flight from/to your home country.
This tour is offered in US dollars (USD).
This tour accepts children who are 10 years and older. Children under 11 receive a discount.
Rates include a fixed budget for flights during this tour. Flights may cost more, depending on travel dates. If so, your quote will reflect this.
Quote flow
Request Guidance
We advise requesting quotes from 3 operators ()
Requests are sent directly to the tour operator
If preferred, you can contact the tour operator directly
Route
country
Ethiopia
Start
Addis Ababa (Day 1)
Day 2-4
Simien Mountains NP
Day 5
Gondar (City)
Day 6-9
Bale Mountains NP
End
Addis Ababa (Day 10)
Tour Features
Budget tour
This budget tour includes camping and hotels.
Private tour
This tour will be organized exclusively for you and won't be shared with others.
Can start any day
If availability permits, this tour can start on any day.
Can be customized
You can request minor changes to the accommodations and destinations of this tour.
Suitable for solo travelers
Solo travelers can book this private tour.
10
Minimum age of 10 years
The minimum age for this tour is 10 years.
Activities & Transportation
Getting around: normal 4x4 vehicle & air transfer
Book your own international flights when using this operator
A transfer from and back to the airport is included
Accommodation & Meals
Day 1
Sun View Addis Hotel
Mid-range hotel in Addis Ababa (City) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 2-3
Budget camping Inside Simien Mountains NP – All Meals Included
Inside Simien Mountains NP – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 4
AG Hotel Mid-range hotel 2-3hr drive from Simien Mountains NP – All Meals Included +3 Photos
Mid-range hotel 2-3hr drive from Simien Mountains NP – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 5
Sun View Addis Hotel
Mid-range hotel in Addis Ababa (City) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 6-8
Budget camping Inside Bale Mountains NP – All Meals Included
Inside Bale Mountains NP – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 9
Wabe Shebelle Hotel Goba Budget hotel less than 1hr drive from Bale Mountains NP – All Meals Included
Budget hotel less than 1hr drive from Bale Mountains NP – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 10
End of tour
(No accommodation)
All Meals Included
Day By Day
Tour step
Arrival
You'll be collected from the airport. Accommodation before the tour starts can be arranged for an extra cost.
Day 1
Arrival in Addis Ababa
Upon arrival at Bole International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our professional team and transferred to your hotel. Depending on your arrival time, you may begin exploring Addis Ababa, Ethiopia’s vibrant capital. Optional visits include the Ethnological Museum, Holy Trinity Cathedral, or a drive through the bustling Mercato, Africa’s largest open-air market. Overnight: Addis Ababa. Mid-range hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) All meals included Drinks not included
Destination: Addis Ababa (City) Stay: Sun View Addis Hotel Mid-range hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) Meals: All meals included Drinks not included
Day 2
Fly to Gondar – Drive to Simien Mountains
After breakfast, take a scenic domestic flight to Gondar, the former imperial capital of Ethiopia. Upon arrival, drive north into the Simien Mountains National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its dramatic cliffs and deep valleys. As you enter the park, enjoy your first views of the spectacular escarpments and spot endemic wildlife such as Gelada baboons and Walia ibex. Overnight: Camping (Simien Mountains). Inside Simien Mountains NP All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Simien Mountains National Park Stay: Budget camping Inside Simien Mountains NP Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 3
Exploration of Simien Mountains
Spend the entire day exploring the Simien Mountains. This is one of the best areas in Ethiopia to observe endemic species, including Gelada baboons, Ethiopian wolves (with luck), and various bird species. The day is spent at a relaxed pace to enjoy the scenery, photography, and nature immersion. Overnight: Camping (Simien Mountains). Inside Simien Mountains NP All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Simien Mountains National Park Stay: Budget camping Inside Simien Mountains NP Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 4
Morning Visit & Drive Back to Gondar
Morning Visit & Drive Back to Gondar Enjoy a final morning in the Simien Mountains before driving back to Gondar. The drive offers more scenic views of the highlands and rural villages. Arrive in Gondar in the afternoon and relax at your hotel after the mountain adventure. Overnight: Gondar. Mid-range hotel located 2-3hr drive from Simien Mountains NP All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Simien Mountains National Park Stay: AG Hotel Mid-range hotel located 2-3hr drive from Simien Mountains NP Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 5
Explore Gondar – Fly Back to Addis Ababa
Explore Gondar – Fly Back to Addis Ababa After breakfast, explore Gondar’s historical highlights, including the Royal Enclosure (Fasil Ghebbi) and the beautifully painted Debre Berhan Selassie Church, famous for its angel-covered ceiling. In the afternoon, fly back to Addis Ababa and transfer to your hotel. Overnight: Addis Ababa. Mid-range hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Gondar (City) Stay: Sun View Addis Hotel Mid-range hotel located in Addis Ababa (City) Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 6
Drive to Bale Mountains
Drive to Bale Mountains Depart Addis Ababa early and drive south toward the spectacular Bale Mountains National Park, passing through changing landscapes, farmland, and highland plateaus. Arrive in the Bale Mountains area in the afternoon and settle into camp, surrounded by pristine Afro-alpine scenery. Overnight: Camping (Bale Mountains). Inside Bale Mountains NP All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Bale Mountains National Park Stay: Budget camping Inside Bale Mountains NP Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 7
Sodota
Trek to Sodota Begin your adventure in the Bale Mountains with a scenic to Sodota. The trail crosses alpine meadows, giant lobelia plants, and open grasslands. This area is home to unique wildlife and offers stunning views of the Bale massif. Overnight: Camping (Sodota). Inside Bale Mountains NP All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Bale Mountains National Park Stay: Budget camping Inside Bale Mountains NP Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 8
Trek from Sodota to Wasama
Trek from Sodota to Wasama Continue trekking deeper into the Bale Mountains, moving from Sodota to Wasama. The route offers varied landscapes, quiet wilderness, and excellent opportunities for birdwatching. This is a peaceful and immersive trekking day, ideal for nature lovers. Overnight: Camping (Wasama). Inside Bale Mountains NP All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Bale Mountains National Park Stay: Budget camping Inside Bale Mountains NP Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 9
Drive Back to Addis Ababa
Drive Back to Addis Ababa At the morning after breakfast, Enjoy a final morning before descending from the highlands. Enjoy the views of the beautiful landscape. After the hike, drive to the town of Bale Goba, where you can relax after the multi-day experience. Overnight: Bale Goba. Budget hotel located less than 1hr drive from Bale Mountains NP All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Bale Mountains National Park Stay: Wabe Shebelle Hotel Goba Budget hotel located less than 1hr drive from Bale Mountains NP Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 10
Drive Back to Addis Ababa
Drive Back to Addis Ababa After breakfast, start driving back to Addis Ababa, passing scenic countryside along the way. You can stop at the view points and have your lunch in the local restaurants. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel or onward departure arrangements. Overnight: Addis Ababa. All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: No major destination visited Stay: No accommodation (End of tour) Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Tour step
End of tour
Additional accommodation can be arranged for an extra cost. You'll be dropped off at the airport.
Included
Park fees (For non-residents)
All activities (Unless labeled as optional)
All accommodation (Unless listed as upgrade)
Camping equipment
A professional driver/guide
All transportation (Unless labeled as optional)
All flights during the tour
All Taxes/VAT
Roundtrip airport transfer
Meals (As specified in the day-by-day section)
Drinks (As specified in the day-by-day section)
Sleeping bag
Bath towels
Excluded
International flights (From/to home)
Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
Tips (Tipping guideline US$10.00 pp per day)
Personal items (Souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)
Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees
Getting There
This tour starts and ends in Addis Ababa
Book your own international flights when using this operator
Fly to/from Addis Ababa Bole International Airport (ADD - Check price)
A transfer from and back to the airport is included
Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour can be arranged for an extra cost
Offered by
Essence Ethiopia Tours
5.0 operator rating
80 reviews
We always offer you an itinerary that is personally tailored to your needs at competitive prices. We are passionate about creating exciting and unique trips with our customers at the heart. Our specially crafted itineraries include historic routes, cultural tours, short holiday stays, business trips, one-day excursions, trekking and wildlife expeditions – according to your needs and budget.
Office In
Ethiopia
Size
10-20 employees (Founded in 2018)
Tour Types
Custom budget & mid-range tours that can start every day
Destinations
Ethiopia
Traveler feedback
Reviews
Overall
5.0/5Communication
5.0/5Accuracy
5.0/5Value
5.0/5Safety clarity
5.0/5Cultural value
5.0/5He is very helpful
Overall, my trip with this company was excellent. All the activities and sites listed were fully covered during the journey, and most importantly, they were very flexible with the traveler’s wishes—whether you want to change something or cancel an activity. They have excellent tour guides who speak fluent English, and the prices are suitable for all budgets. In the end, I highly recommend this company. Thank you.
Abdelaziz · United Arab Emirates
Exceptional
This is a great tour company! Tsahaynew knows so much and shares it easily with his guests. He is extremely friendly and accommodating. You won't regret using him for your tour!
Don · United States
Tension Free Travel
Essence Ethiopia and Mr Tsechay referred by one of my friend ,But from the first WhatsApp Message to End other tour he did a greate coordination and Tension free travel. He was really concerned about the small things that could be missed from our side. Even reminder of early flights and time lines.i Strongly recommend this team if any of you planning to Visit Ethiopia. All the best Essence Ethiopia
Sanu Sivashankar · Qatar
Well-organized tour
The tour was well organized. Big pros: When any issues arose, the organizer immediately intervened and rectified the situation. Points: 3-star hotels. All were clean, with showers, breakfast included. Transfers: I was met and seen off everywhere, and they helped with our luggage. There was a slight hitch when we arrived in Ethiopia at the airport. I expected to be met at the arrivals exit (this is usually the case). It turned out I had to exit the airport and walk to the parking lot, which I should have mentioned in advance. Transportation: I had private tours around Addis Ababa. The vehicle was clean and good. Around the salt lake, we traveled in a large Land Cruiser, with a driver and three tourists. No problems at all. Guides: Guides with good English. Both the guides and drivers were friendly, helpful, informative, and answered questions. No tips were required. Everything was fine. Additionally: In the area of the volcano and salt lake, you have to sleep outside. I even liked it – the view of the star is stunning. Cons: no shower or proper toilet.
Evgeny · Russia
Practical answers
Tour FAQs
Are rates charged per person?
Rates are per person and exclude the international flight from/to your home country.
Which currency is this tour priced in?
This tour is offered in US dollars (USD).
Can children join this tour?
This tour accepts children who are 10 years and older. Children under 11 receive a discount.
Can this tour start on my preferred date?
If availability permits, this tour can start on any day.
Can the itinerary be customized?
You can request minor changes to the accommodations and destinations of this tour.
Where do travelers stay during this tour?
Sun View Addis Hotel - Mid-range hotel in Addis Ababa (City) – All Meals Included. Meals: All Meals Included
Where does this tour start and end?
This tour starts and ends in Addis Ababa
Are airport transfers included?
A transfer from and back to the airport is included
Operator policy
Terms and Conditions
Disclaimer
This tour is offered by Essence Ethiopia Tours, not SafariBookings.
This operator reserves the right to change rates advertised on SafariBookings.
If you request changes to this tour, the advertised rates will likely change.
Rates include a fixed budget for flights during this tour. If flights cost more, your quote will reflect this.
The exact order, contents and rates of this tour are subject to availability.
If an accommodation is fully booked, the operator will suggest a comparable alternative.
This tour is subject to the terms & conditions of Essence Ethiopia Tours.
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