Day trek to Simien Mountain
Active
6h - 8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
This program offers tough but immensely rewarding trekking along the ridge that falls sheer to the plains far below. It’s not just the scenery (and altitude) that will leave you speechless, but also the excitement of sitting among a group of gelada monkeys, or watching magnificent walia ibex joust on rock ledges.
Available options
Day trek to Simien Mountain
Pickup included
What's included
All Fees and Taxes
Bottled water
Security and Scout
Lunch
Air-conditioned vehicle
Professional Guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
We will meet you in the morning at Gondar Airport or your hotel in Gondar. Drive from Gondar to Debark, which is the headquarter town for the national park. We will stop here to get a permission to enter the park and meet the scout. We will have tea and coffee break and visit the local market if we have time. The local market is open every day, and every Wednesday and Saturday is the big market day. From Debark town, we will drive to the park gate, which is about 16km from the town. Then, we are heading about 6km to Buit Ras, the first area of the national park. From Buit Ras, we will trek for about 3, 4 hours to Chilkuwanit which is one of the most beautiful viewpoints. This area offers stunning views over the escarpment dropping vertically. You will most certainly encounter troops of the endemic Gelada Baboons and see them up-close. You may also see common jackal, klipspringer and more. There are a lot of birds such as Thick-billed Raven, Augar Buzard, Black Kites, Lammergeyer and different plant species such as Abyssinian Rose, Erica Arboria tree, Euphorbia Species, St. Johns Worttree(Hypercumrevoltum) and so on. Our car will pick you up at Chilkuwanit and drive to Gondar
What's not included
Services which are not mentioned on the above section
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.0
2 reviews
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Tripadvisor
5.0
4 reviews
5★
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Important information
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
About Gondar
Gondar, known as the 'Camelot of Africa,' is a historic city in Ethiopia renowned for its medieval castles and palaces. It served as the capital of the Ethiopian Empire in the 17th and 18th centuries and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.
Top Attractions
Fasiledes Castle
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Fasiledes Castle is a complex of buildings that served as the royal palace during the 17th and 18th centuries. It is known for its unique architectural style and historical significance.
Historical
2-3 hours
Moderate (Entry fee around 250 ETB)
Debre Berhan Selassie Church
This beautifully painted church is famous for its intricate ceiling murals depicting angels and biblical scenes. It is one of the most iconic religious sites in Ethiopia.
Religious
1-2 hours
Moderate (Entry fee around 100 ETB)
Qwara Mountains
The Qwara Mountains offer stunning landscapes and hiking opportunities. The area is known for its unique rock formations and scenic views.
Nature
Half-day to full-day
Free to moderate (Guided tours available)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Doro Wat
A spicy chicken stew made with berbere spice, onions, and garlic, typically served with injera.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains meat and spicy ingredients.
Injera
A sourdough flatbread made from teff flour, used as both a plate and utensil in Ethiopian cuisine.
Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
Vegan and gluten-free options available.
Tibs
Sautéed meat, usually beef or lamb, cooked with spices and vegetables.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains meat and may include spicy ingredients.
Popular Activities
Hiking in the Qwara Mountains
Trekking in Simien Mountains
Boat tours on Lake Tana
Visiting local spas
Attending traditional coffee ceremonies
Exploring historic sites
Participating in the Timket festival
Visiting the ancient monasteries on Lake Tana
Best Time to Visit
October to February
This period offers pleasant weather with mild temperatures and minimal rainfall, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
15°C to 25°C
59°F to 77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Amharic
- Widely spoken: English, Tigrinya
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas
Currency
Ethiopian Birr (ETB)
Time Zone
GMT+3
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Gondar is generally safe for travelers, but standard precautions should be taken to avoid petty crime and scams.
Important Precautions:
- • Avoid walking alone at night
- • Use reputable tour operators
- • Keep valuables secure
Getting there
By air
- Atse Tewodros Airport • 5 km from city center
By bus
Gondar Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the primary mode of public transport in Gondar. They are affordable but can be crowded.
Taxis
Available • Apps:
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
City Center
Azezo
Day trips
Lake Tana
30 km • Half-day to full-day
Lake Tana is the largest lake in Ethiopia and is known for its beautiful landscapes, monasteries, and birdlife.
Simien Mountains National Park
120 km • Full-day to overnight
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Simien Mountains offer stunning landscapes, hiking trails, and unique wildlife.
Festivals
Timket • January 19th
Gondar Cultural Festival • Annual (Date varies)
Pro tips
- Hire a local guide for a more informative and enriching experience
- Visit the historic sites early in the morning to avoid crowds
- Try traditional Ethiopian coffee at a local coffee ceremony
- Bargain politely when shopping at local markets
- Carry small denominations of Ethiopian Birr for local purchases
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
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