Simien Mountains National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site of eroded basalt plateaus, pinnacles and gorges, reaching 4,550 m at Ras Dashen, Ethiopia’s highest peak. The escarpment edge drops sheer for more than a kilometre, and the views are among the most dramatic in Africa.
The park is best known for its huge troops of gelada, grass-eating primates found only in Ethiopia, which allow visitors to sit among them as they graze. The endemic walia ibex, the Ethiopian wolf and the lammergeier (bearded vulture) are also found here. Trekking routes range from day hikes to week-long expeditions, with mules carrying equipment and scouts accompanying every group.
Highlights
- Sitting among gelada troops
- Escarpment views at Imet Gogo
- Walia ibex at Chenek
- Trekking with mules and scouts
Wildlife & what you'll see
- Gelada
- Walia ibex
- Ethiopian wolf
- Lammergeier
Things to do
- Trekking
- Wildlife viewing
- Village visits
- Camping
Best time to visit
October to March for clear views and dry trails; September for wildflowers after the rains.
Getting there
Drive from Gondar to Debark, the park headquarters, and on into the park.
Experiences in Simien Mountains
FAQs about Simien Mountains
Do I need to be very fit to trek in the Simiens?
Day walks are suitable for most people. Multi-day treks involve 5–7 hours of walking at altitude, so good fitness helps. We can adapt routes to your level.
