This twelve-day itinerary through Northern Ethiopia combines a challenging trek through the Simien Mountains with a cultural exploration of Lalibela’s renowned rock-hewn churches. Starting and ending in Gondar, the journey includes encounters with unique wildlife, breathtaking landscapes, and significant historical sites, providing a comprehensive and memorable experience.
Day 1: Arrival in Gondar
Activities Arrival, rest, and preparation for the trek. Optional city tour to visit Fasil Ghebbi, Fasilides’ Bath, and Debre Berhan Selassie Church.
- Accommodation: http://gondarhillsresort.com/
Day 2: Gondar to Sankaber Camp
Transport Drive from Gondar to Debark (100 km, 3 hours), then drive to Simien Mountains National Park entrance.
Trek : Debark to Sankaber (2-3 hours)
Highlights : First encounter with Gelada baboons, stunning views of the escarpment.
- Accommodation : Camping at Sankaber
Day 3: Sankaber to Geech Camp
Trek: 5-6 hours
Highlights : Jinbar Waterfall, chance to see various birds and wildlife, crossing the Jinbar River.
- Accommodation: Camping at Geech
Day 4: Geech to Imet Gogo and back to Geech
Trek: 6-7 hours round trip
- Accommodation: Camping at Geech Highlights Imet Gogo viewpoint offers breathtaking panoramic views, possible sighting of Walia ibex and Ethiopian wolves.
Day 5: Geech to Chenek Camp
Trek: 7-8 hours
Highlights: Crossing valleys, seeing more Gelada baboons
- Accommodation : Camping at Chenek
Day 6: Chenek to Ambiko
Trek: 7-8 hours
Highlights: Spectacular views, diverse flora and fauna, preparing for the summit attempt.
- Accommodation: Camping at Chenek
Day 7: Ambiko to Ras Dashen and back to Ambiko
Trek: 8-10 hours round trip.
Highlights: Summit of Ras Dashen, the highest peak in Ethiopia at 4,550 meters, incredible views from the top.
- Accommodation: Camping at Ambiko
Day 8: Ambiko to Chenek
Trek: 7-8 hours.
Highlights: Leisurely trek back, enjoying the scenery.
- Accommodation: Camping at Chenek
Day 9: Chenek to Debark and back to Gondar
Trek: Chenek to Debark (6-7 hours)
Transport: Drive back to Gondar
Highlights: Reflect on the trek, optional farewell dinner in Gondar.
- Accommodation http://gondarhillsresort.com/ or similar
Day 10: Gondar to Lalibela
Transport: Fly from Gondar to Lalibela (1-hour flight).
Activities: Arrival and rest. Optional visit to the local market or a short hike around the area.
- Accommodation: https://soralodgelalibela.com or similar
Day 11: Explore Lalibela Rock-Hewn Churches
Activities: Full-day guided tour of the UNESCO World Heritage site.
Visit the famous churches including Bet Giyorgis (St. George), Bet Medhane Ale & et Maryam, and others
- Accommodation: https://soralodgelalibela.com or similar
Day 12: Lalibela and Departure
Activities: Optional morning visit to the remaining churches or other local attractions. Transfer to the airport for departure.
- Accommodation: Not provided (depends on departure plans)
Permits and Guides: Entry into the Simien Mountains National Park requires a permit. It is also mandatory to hire a guide and scout. These can be arranged in Debark.
Packing Essentials: Warm clothing (temperatures can drop significantly at night), trekking boots, a good sleeping bag, a tent (if not provided by the tour operator), water purification tah’ots, and snacks.
