Ethiopia Simien Mountains Hiking
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
On this thrilling Ethiopian adventure, discover "the cradle of humanity" and its spectacular wonders carved by nature, history and time-tested tradition. Marvel at the fossilized remains of early hominids in Addis Ababa and trek the rugged ranges of Simien Mountains National Park, spotting unique wildlife along the way such as the Gelada baboon and Simien fox. Take in the majestic castles of Gondar, the former royal capital of Ethiopian Empire, dive deep into medieval past on a tour of Lalibela's magnificent rock-hewn churches hidden away in grottos, and partake in traditional coffee ceremonies that Ethiopia is famed for.
- Trek lodge to lodge in astonishing Simien Mountains National Park, spotting endemic wildlife
- Take in the museum highlights of Addis Ababa, including "Lucy," the world-famous early human
- Explore the wondrous rock-hewn churches of Lalibela and Yemrehanna Kristos, hidden in a grotto
Internal Airfare: $800
Minimum Age: 15
- Adventure and Active
- Educational and Learning
- Safari, Animals, and Wildlife
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September 26, 2023
October 05, 2023 ID: 7575101
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November 21, 2023
November 30, 2023 ID: 7575102
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December 20, 2023
December 29, 2023 ID: 7575103
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November 01, 2024
November 10, 2024 ID: 8032091
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ID: 7575101
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ID: 7575102
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ID: 7575103
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ID: 8032091
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Day: 1, duration: 2
Hyatt Regency Addis Ababa
Centrally located in Meskel Square, the Hyatt Regency Addis Ababa is the perfect upscale spot to unwind after a long flight. Head over to the infinity pool and spa to relax before adventuring into the heart of Ethiopia. Each room offers complimentary Wi-Fi, coffee/tea maker, hair dryer and flat screen TV.
Day: 3, duration: 2Simien Lodge
This gorgeous mountain lodge sits right on the doorstep of Simien Mountains National Park, with majestic vistas in every direction. Comfortable rooms inside circular huts come with floor heating and traditional Ethiopian decor. The restaurant with a circular fireplace serves international favorites and Ethiopian fare, while the cozy bar claims to be the highest place to get a drink in Africa.
Day: 5, duration: 2Limalimo Lodge
Perched dramatically on the edge of a cliff in Simien Mountains National Park, this gorgeous boutique lodge features 12 en-suite rooms in wooden buildings strewn around the grounds. The bar and restaurant atop a hill showcase remarkable views of the lowlands. Lounge in one of the hammocks between acacia trees and come evening, curl up around the fire pit.
Day: 7, duration: 1Gondar Hills Resort
The Gondar Hills Resort is an eco-lodge situated on the top of a mountain overlooking the lush valley below. Designed using traditional stonework to mimic the architecture of the surrounding medieval castles, each room's French windows open up to picturesque views of mountains or rivers with a private garden.
Day: 8, duration: 2Mezena Lodge
This upscale lodge has an unbeatable location for visiting the churches of Lalibela. The well-appointed rooms are housed inside individual huts strewn across a scenic garden with outstanding mountain views. The all-day restaurant and bar, an outdoor swimming pool and a sauna round out the stellar facilities.
Elias Alemayehu
Elias has over 15 years of guiding experience and possesses a degree in tourism from the University of Gondar. He is passionate about sustainable tourism, and has a deep level of knowledge for Ethiopian culture, geology, ethnography, and history. Elias is very personable, and takes great pride in attending to the needs and questions of guests while leading a fun and informative travel experience.

Girum Wondim
Girum is a knowledgeable guide and also holds a degree in tourism from the University of Gondar. He has excellent communication skills and has worked locally in the region since 2005. He enjoys sharing perspectives of Ethiopian history and culture with MT Sobek travelers from around the world. Girum is kind and mindful, and looks forward to sharing an immersive travel experience on this Ethiopian adventure.

Inclusions
Expertise and services of our experienced adventure guides
All accommodations as noted in the itinerary
All breakfasts, almost all lunches and dinners as noted in the itinerary
Snacks and water between meals
Additional regional guides and experts on many trips
Comprehensive Trip Planner with detailed pre-trip information
Private guided tours at historic sites, museums, wineries and other select attractions as noted in the itinerary
Special events and other select attractions as mentioned in the itinerary
All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
Equipment and experienced guides for activities as described in the itinerary
Park and other entry fees (unless otherwise noted)
Fares for trains, ferries and other modes of travel as listed in the itinerary
Select transfers as mentioned in the itinerary
Baggage transfers and porterage
Exclusions
International airfare, airport taxes, and excess baggage fees
Alcoholic beverages (MT Sobek provides wine at select events)
Gratuities for MT Sobek guides and guide-drivers
Travel Protection Program
Personal expenses
Reason #01
MT Sobek's history is deeply rooted in Ethiopia. Join us in experiencing the magic of this enigmatic and exciting destination!
Reason #02We trek further and farther off the beaten path of the Simien Mountains, accessing areas few visitors get to experience.
Reason #03While Ethiopia remains relatively undeveloped, we've expertly designed the logistics and details of this tour to combine the best hikes, cultural experiences, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
ActivitiesStrenuous hiking on diverse terrain and in varied altitudes, guided city tours and visits to rock-hewn churches.
LodgingAn upscale city hotel and boutique lodges in stunning natural surrounds.
ClimateMild, sunny climate year around with average temperatures from 59°F-80°F. The dry season prevails Oct-May; the wet season is Jun-Sep.
Are hikes at high altitude?We spend most of our adventure at altitudes between 5,000 and 8,000ft. Our excursion into the Simiens will take us to around 10,000ft.
Is malaria present in Ethiopia?While there is malaria in Ethiopia, it is not present in Addis Ababa or at elevations over 8,200 feet, where we will be traveling for the majority of the tour. Review the CDC recommendations carefully and always consult your travel doctor well before your travel dates.
Do I need a visa to enter Ethiopia?Yes and you can obtain an e-visa in advance or on arrival.
What are meals like?Traditionally, you eat food by using your right hand, so you should wash your hands ahead of time. Typically, a jug of water and a bar of soap are brought to you for that purpose. The country's staple is injera, a flat sourdough pancake made of grain, which is served with meat or vegetable sauces and used to scoop up the sauce.
What is the religion in Ethiopia?The two predominant religions in Ethiopia are Christianity - Ethiopian Orthodox, and Islam. Christianity is more common in the northern and central parts of Ethiopia.
What is Meskel Festival?Our September departure features the Meskel festival, which is an Ethiopian Orthodox holiday that has been celebrated for over 1600 years and is one of the most important events in the country. It commemorates the discovery of the cross on which Jesus Christ was crucified by St. Helena, mother of Constantine the Great. The event features feasting, dancing, bonfires, and general celebrating.
Day: 1, duration: 2
Hyatt Regency Addis Ababa
Centrally located in Meskel Square, the Hyatt Regency Addis Ababa is the perfect upscale spot to unwind after a long flight. Head over to the infinity pool and spa to relax before adventuring into the heart of Ethiopia. Each room offers complimentary Wi-Fi, coffee/tea maker, hair dryer and flat screen TV.
Day: 3, duration: 2Simien Lodge
This gorgeous mountain lodge sits right on the doorstep of Simien Mountains National Park, with majestic vistas in every direction. Comfortable rooms inside circular huts come with floor heating and traditional Ethiopian decor. The restaurant with a circular fireplace serves international favorites and Ethiopian fare, while the cozy bar claims to be the highest place to get a drink in Africa.
Day: 5, duration: 2Limalimo Lodge
Perched dramatically on the edge of a cliff in Simien Mountains National Park, this gorgeous boutique lodge features 12 en-suite rooms in wooden buildings strewn around the grounds. The bar and restaurant atop a hill showcase remarkable views of the lowlands. Lounge in one of the hammocks between acacia trees and come evening, curl up around the fire pit.
Day: 7, duration: 1Gondar Hills Resort
The Gondar Hills Resort is an eco-lodge situated on the top of a mountain overlooking the lush valley below. Designed using traditional stonework to mimic the architecture of the surrounding medieval castles, each room's French windows open up to picturesque views of mountains or rivers with a private garden.
Day: 8, duration: 2Mezena Lodge
This upscale lodge has an unbeatable location for visiting the churches of Lalibela. The well-appointed rooms are housed inside individual huts strewn across a scenic garden with outstanding mountain views. The all-day restaurant and bar, an outdoor swimming pool and a sauna round out the stellar facilities.
Elias Alemayehu
Elias has over 15 years of guiding experience and possesses a degree in tourism from the University of Gondar. He is passionate about sustainable tourism, and has a deep level of knowledge for Ethiopian culture, geology, ethnography, and history. Elias is very personable, and takes great pride in attending to the needs and questions of guests while leading a fun and informative travel experience.

Girum Wondim
Girum is a knowledgeable guide and also holds a degree in tourism from the University of Gondar. He has excellent communication skills and has worked locally in the region since 2005. He enjoys sharing perspectives of Ethiopian history and culture with MT Sobek travelers from around the world. Girum is kind and mindful, and looks forward to sharing an immersive travel experience on this Ethiopian adventure.

Inclusions
Expertise and services of our experienced adventure guides
All accommodations as noted in the itinerary
All breakfasts, almost all lunches and dinners as noted in the itinerary
Snacks and water between meals
Additional regional guides and experts on many trips
Comprehensive Trip Planner with detailed pre-trip information
Private guided tours at historic sites, museums, wineries and other select attractions as noted in the itinerary
Special events and other select attractions as mentioned in the itinerary
All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
Equipment and experienced guides for activities as described in the itinerary
Park and other entry fees (unless otherwise noted)
Fares for trains, ferries and other modes of travel as listed in the itinerary
Select transfers as mentioned in the itinerary
Baggage transfers and porterage
Exclusions
International airfare, airport taxes, and excess baggage fees
Alcoholic beverages (MT Sobek provides wine at select events)
Gratuities for MT Sobek guides and guide-drivers
Travel Protection Program
Personal expenses
Reason #01
MT Sobek's history is deeply rooted in Ethiopia. Join us in experiencing the magic of this enigmatic and exciting destination!
Reason #02We trek further and farther off the beaten path of the Simien Mountains, accessing areas few visitors get to experience.
Reason #03While Ethiopia remains relatively undeveloped, we've expertly designed the logistics and details of this tour to combine the best hikes, cultural experiences, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
ActivitiesStrenuous hiking on diverse terrain and in varied altitudes, guided city tours and visits to rock-hewn churches.
LodgingAn upscale city hotel and boutique lodges in stunning natural surrounds.
ClimateMild, sunny climate year around with average temperatures from 59°F-80°F. The dry season prevails Oct-May; the wet season is Jun-Sep.
Are hikes at high altitude?We spend most of our adventure at altitudes between 5,000 and 8,000ft. Our excursion into the Simiens will take us to around 10,000ft.
Is malaria present in Ethiopia?While there is malaria in Ethiopia, it is not present in Addis Ababa or at elevations over 8,200 feet, where we will be traveling for the majority of the tour. Review the CDC recommendations carefully and always consult your travel doctor well before your travel dates.
Do I need a visa to enter Ethiopia?Yes and you can obtain an e-visa in advance or on arrival.
What are meals like?Traditionally, you eat food by using your right hand, so you should wash your hands ahead of time. Typically, a jug of water and a bar of soap are brought to you for that purpose. The country's staple is injera, a flat sourdough pancake made of grain, which is served with meat or vegetable sauces and used to scoop up the sauce.
What is the religion in Ethiopia?The two predominant religions in Ethiopia are Christianity - Ethiopian Orthodox, and Islam. Christianity is more common in the northern and central parts of Ethiopia.
What is Meskel Festival?Our September departure features the Meskel festival, which is an Ethiopian Orthodox holiday that has been celebrated for over 1600 years and is one of the most important events in the country. It commemorates the discovery of the cross on which Jesus Christ was crucified by St. Helena, mother of Constantine the Great. The event features feasting, dancing, bonfires, and general celebrating.
About MT Sobek

To feed your spirit of adventure, Mountain Travel Sobek offers a wide range of unique and perfectly paced itineraries led by incredible local guides. We keep groups small, usually fewer than 10 people, and seek out great food and characterful accommodations everywhere we go.
Beyond the seamless logistics and careful attention to detail, our aim is to create a space for truly special moments in unforgettable places.
We are the Adventure Company—come explore with us.
About MT Sobek

To feed your spirit of adventure, Mountain Travel Sobek offers a wide range of unique and perfectly paced itineraries led by incredible local guides. We keep groups small, usually fewer than 10 people, and seek out great food and characterful accommodations everywhere we go.
Beyond the seamless logistics and careful attention to detail, our aim is to create a space for truly special moments in unforgettable places.
We are the Adventure Company—come explore with us.