Visit the Semien Mountains
The Simien Mountain massif dominates and divides the Ethiopian country into distinctly contrasting highland and lowland regions.
With over twenty peaks exceeding heights above 4000 meters this massif can rightfully lay claim as the “Roof Of Africa” even though its highest peak, Ras Dashen at 4542 meters, is only the fourth highest peak in Africa. This UNESCO World Heritage National Park is characterized by gentle highland ridges, which end suddenly at 1000- 2000 meters deep escarpments.
The precipitous cliffs and deep canyon style gorges provide a feast for the eyes and the natural lookout points allow vistas of up to 100 kms over the lowland valleys!
The trekking part of this trip is unusual in many ways. The tour will be fully supported by a team including guides, armed soldiers, helpers and a cook, whilst mules and their handlers provide porter services. Further, the trek takes place in a National Park that provides a habitat for some of Ethiopia’s rare wildlife and birdlife species.
Whilst touring it is not unusual to walk among groups of Gelada monkeys, to see Walia ibex on the rocky edges of cliffs and to sight or hear Ethiopia’s many endemic birds and, if very lucky, the highly endangered Ethiopian wolf.
Combined with this is the interaction with the small villages and the insight gained into their way of life as they try to survive with little natural resources.
As you follow the paths trodden over the ages by the highland people, you will often be joined by young herd boys as they take care of their cattle and sheep. Add to this the incredible mountain scenery of the World Heritage listed Simien Mountains and you have an unbelievable and unusual trekking adventure.
The tour requires a good level of fitness as the paths enter mountainsides, climb over passes and drop down through river valleys.
The ‘up-and-down’ nature of this trek commonly results in gains and losses of hundreds of meters of height in the same day. This trekking adventure will ensure you leave with incredible memories of the outstanding beauty of Ethiopia and of its culture. Book your tour in the Simien Mountains today with The Simien Mountains Experts for the experience of a lifetime!
