Duration
8-Day
Simien Mountains National Park, Ethiopia
8-Day Simien Mountains National Park Trekking
Overview
Simien Mountains National Park is one of the most stunning natural landscapes in Ethiopia and is also a UNESCO World Heritage site. Located in the northern part of the country, the park is known for its dramatic scenery, including jagged mountain peaks, deep valleys, and sheer cliffs that drop as much as 1,500 meters. The park is home to several endemic species, including the Ethiopian wolf, the Walia ibex, and the Gelada baboon.
Plan snapshot
Quick Facts
Route
Gondar to Gondar (City)
Via Simien Mountains NP
Country & park
Ethiopia / Simien Mountains National Park
Style
Shared safari
Group size
1-12 travelers
Starts
Any day if available
Minimum age
2 years
Activities
walking safaris (with an armed guide) & nature hikes/walks
Accommodation
Simien Lodge - Mid-range lodge inside Simien Mountains NP – Lunch & Dinner Included
Meals
Lunch & Dinner Included; All Meals Included
Pickup
Airport transfer included
Booking
Request quote
Currency
USD
Solo travelers
Can join this group tour
Rates
Rates Per Person
USD
Start datesSingle2+ people
Jan 1, 2026 - Dec 31, 2026
$2,640 USD
$1,760 USD
Jan 1, 2027 - Dec 31, 2027
$2,640 USD
$1,760 USD
Before booking
Important To Know
Rates are per person and exclude the international flight from/to your home country.
A travel party of 1 or 2 people can join this group tour, but it requires a minimum of 5 people to run.
This tour is offered in US dollars (USD).
This tour accepts children who are 2 years and older.
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
Gondar (Day 1)
Day 1-7
Simien Mountains NP
End
Gondar (City) (Day 8)
Tour Features
Budget tour
This budget tour includes camping and lodges.
Shared tour
On this shared tour, you will join a group of other travelers. Max 10 people per group.
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 single travelers
Single travelers can join this group tour, but it requires a minimum of 5 people to run.
2
Minimum age of 2 years
The minimum age for this tour is 2 years.
Activities & Transportation
Activities: walking safaris (with an armed guide) & nature hikes/walks
Getting around: minivan, normal 4x4 vehicle, hiking/walking & air transfer
This operator can select your international flights, but you'll have to book them yourself
A transfer from and back to the airport is included
Accommodation & Meals
Day 1
Simien Lodge
Mid-range lodge inside Simien Mountains NP – Lunch & Dinner Included
Lunch & Dinner Included
Day 2
Budget camping Outside Simien Mountains NP – All Meals Included
Outside Simien Mountains NP – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 3-7
Budget camping Inside Simien Mountains NP – Day 1-4: All Meals Included – Day 5-6: Lunch & Dinner Included – Day 7: All Meals Included
Inside Simien Mountains NP
Day 1-4: All Meals Included; Day 5-6: Lunch & Dinner Included; Day 7: All Meals Included
Day 8
End of tour
(No accommodation)
Breakfast & Lunch 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 Gondar and Transfer to Debark
Day 1: Arrival in Gondar & Transfer to Debark - Morning: Arrive in Gondar. Explore the historical town, including the castles and churches. This an opportunity for visitors to visit this ancient town on their way to Simien National Park - Afternoon: Transfer to Debark, the gateway to Simien Mountains National Park. Mid-range lodge located inside Simien Mountains NP Lunch & dinner (Breakfast not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Simien Mountains National Park Stay: Simien Lodge Mid-range lodge located inside Simien Mountains NP Meals: Lunch & dinner (Breakfast not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 2
Drive from Debark to Sankaber
Sankaber is one of the main campsites located in the Simien Mountains National Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in northern Ethiopia. It is renowned for its dramatic highland landscapes, deep valleys, and jagged peaks. Sankaber is typically the starting point for trekking tours in the Simien Mountains, offering stunning views of the surrounding escarpments and wildlife sightings. Trekkers in Sankaber often encounter gelada baboons, a species unique to the Ethiopian highlands, as well as various bird species like the lammergeyer, a large bearded vulture. Other wildlife includes the rare Ethiopian wolf and walia ibex. Sankaber serves as a major trailhead for multi-day trekking routes in the Simien Mountains. Popular treks typically start from Debark and head to Sankaber before continuing toward Geech, Imet Gogo, and Ras Dashen, the highest peak in Ethiopia. Sankaber is ideal for nature lovers and trekkers seeking to explore Ethiopia's remarkable highland ecosystem. Outside Simien Mountains NP All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Simien Mountains National Park Stay: Budget camping Outside Simien Mountains NP Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 3
Trek from Sankaber to Geech Camp
- Morning: Trek along the escarpment with panoramic views of the mountains. - Afternoon: Pass through waterfalls and spot wildlife like the Walia ibex. Geech is another key campsite in the Simien Mountains National Park, located further along the trekking route from Sankaber. It is known for its incredible views and proximity to some of the most iconic landmarks in the Simien Mountains. Geech is often the second campsite for trekkers on multi-day hikes through the park and offers a more remote and scenic environment. The landscape around Geech is open and grassy, with sweeping views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The area is dotted with giant lobelia plants, which are characteristic of Ethiopia's highland ecosystem. The plateau offers panoramic views, especially during sunset, making it one of the most picturesque spots in the park. 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
Ascend to Imet Gogo
- Morning: Ascend to Imet Gogo (3,926m) for breathtaking views of the mountain ridges and valleys. - Afternoon: Return to Geech camp for relaxation. One of the highlights near Geech is Imet Gogo, a stunning viewpoint located about 2-3 hours of hiking from the campsite. From Imet Gogo, trekkers can enjoy breathtaking views of the sheer cliffs, deep valleys, and vast plains stretching out below. It’s one of the most famous viewpoints in the entire Simien Mountains. Inside Simien Mountains NP All meals included Drinks not included
Destination: Simien Mountains National Park Stay: Budget camping Inside Simien Mountains NP Meals: All meals included Drinks not included
Day 5
Trek to Chenek
- Morning: Trek to Chenek, passing through rugged terrain with chances of spotting the Ethiopian wolf. - Afternoon: Enjoy the dramatic scenery and camp near the Walia ibex habitats. Chenek is another key campsite and trekking destination in the Simien Mountains National Park in northern Ethiopia. It is often considered one of the most beautiful and exciting stops along the trekking route, offering spectacular views and opportunities for wildlife spotting. The landscapes around Chenek are stunning, with steep cliffs, deep valleys, and towering mountain peaks. The views from Chenek are considered some of the most breathtaking in the entire Simien Mountains. The escarpments and rugged terrain make it a perfect spot for photography and enjoying the dramatic natural beauty. Inside Simien Mountains NP Lunch & dinner (Breakfast not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Simien Mountains National Park Stay: Budget camping Inside Simien Mountains NP Meals: Lunch & dinner (Breakfast not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 6
Descend from Chenek to Ambiko
- Morning: Begin the descent towards the Ambiko campsite, located near the base of Ras Dashen. - Afternoon: Prepare for the climb to Ras Dashen. Ambiko is a notable campsite in the Simien Mountains National Park, primarily serving as the base camp for trekkers attempting to summit Ras Dashen, the highest peak in Ethiopia. Ambiko is located further along the trekking route after Chenek and offers a more remote and rugged experience for adventurers seeking to explore the highest parts of the Simien Mountains. Ambiko is situated at around 3,200 meters (10,498 feet) above sea level. It sits lower than some of the earlier campsites like Geech and Chenek, as it lies in a valley between towering peaks, including Ras Dashen. Ambiko’s main significance is its proximity to Ras Dashen, Ethiopia’s highest peak at 4,550 meters (14,928 feet). Trekkers often stay at Ambiko overnight before making the final push to the summit early the next morning. Inside Simien Mountains NP Lunch & dinner (Breakfast not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Simien Mountains National Park Stay: Budget camping Inside Simien Mountains NP Meals: Lunch & dinner (Breakfast not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 7
Ascend from Ambiko to Ras Dashen
- Morning: Ascend to Ras Dashen, the highest peak in the Simien Mountains and the fourth highest in Africa. - Afternoon: Descend back to Ambiko camp. Ras Dashen (also spelled Ras Dejen) is the highest mountain in Ethiopia and the tenth-highest in Africa, standing at an impressive 4,550 meters above sea level. It is located in the Simien Mountains National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, in northern Ethiopia. Ras Dashen is a prime destination for trekkers and adventurers, offering a challenging climb with breathtaking landscapes and sweeping views. Most trekkers approach Ras Dashen from the Ambiko campsite, located at around 3,200 meters. The ascent typically starts early in the morning and takes about 4-6 hours to reach the summit, depending on the pace. The trek to Ras Dashen is considered challenging due to its high altitude, steep climbs, and long distances. Hikers should be well-acclimatized before attempting the summit. 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 8
Trek back from Ambiko to Chenek and drive to Gondar for departure
- Morning: Trek back to Chenek, then drive back to Gondar for departure or further exploration. - Accommodation is not included in the itinerary (optional stay Gondar hotels). Breakfast & lunch (Dinner not included) Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Gondar (City) Stay: No accommodation (End of tour) Meals: Breakfast & lunch (Dinner not 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
Excluded
International flights (From/to home)
Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
Bath towels
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
Some meals (As specified in the day-by-day section)
Getting There
This tour starts and ends in Gondar
This operator can select your international flights, but you'll have to book them yourself
Fly to/from Gondar Airport (GDQ - 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
Pioneer Ethiopia tours
4.8 operator rating
Pioneer Ethiopia Tours & Travel is a premier private local tour company founded in 2023 in the historic city of Harar, Eastern Ethiopia. We specialize in providing customizable and tailor-made tour packages for groups, families, and individual travelers from around the world. Our tours are designed to cater to the interests, budget, and travel purposes of clients ensuring a unique and personalized experience.
Office In
Ethiopia
Size
5-10 employees (Founded in 2023)
Tour Types
Small & medium group tours (Budget & mid-range)
Destinations
Ethiopia
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 2 years and older.
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?
Simien Lodge - Mid-range lodge inside Simien Mountains NP – Lunch & Dinner Included. Meals: Lunch & Dinner Included
Where does this tour start and end?
This tour starts and ends in Gondar
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 Pioneer 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.
This group tour requires a minimum of 5 people to run.
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 Pioneer Ethiopia tours.
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