Simien Mountains: trekking the roof of Africa

A safety note first

The park lies in northern Amhara, where conflict since 2023 has led several governments to advise against all or all but essential travel. Check your government's current advice, and confirm with the park and any tour operator that the area is open, before you commit.

Wildlife you will see

The gelada, sometimes called the bleeding heart monkey for the red patch on its chest, is the star. Large troops spend the day grazing on grass along the cliff edge, and you can sit quietly among them. The walia ibex, a wild goat found only here, clings to the cliffs near Chennek. Ethiopian wolves, the rarest canid in Africa, are sometimes seen on the high plateau, and lammergeier vultures soar overhead.

The main trekking route

Most treks start at the park headquarters at Debark and follow the escarpment east. A typical route stops at Sankaber, Geech and Chennek, with side trips to viewpoints such as Imet Gogo, where the cliffs fall away beneath you, and Bwahit. Strong walkers can continue to Ras Dashen, the highest mountain in Ethiopia, which adds several days. Shorter visits are possible by vehicle, with day walks between camps.

Scouts, guides and permits

Every group must take an armed park scout, which is a park rule, and most also take a licensed guide, cook and mules for luggage. Park entry and scout fees are paid at Debark, and you can check current fees with the park or your operator. Most visitors book through a tour company in Gondar or Debark that arranges everything, which is simpler and safer than doing it alone.

Altitude and weather

Much of the trek is above 3,000 metres, and nights can drop below freezing, especially from November to January. Bring a warm sleeping bag, layers, a waterproof jacket, a hat and sunscreen, since the sun is strong at this height. Walk slowly, drink water and tell your guide if you have a headache or feel unwell. The rainy season from June to September brings mud, clouds and green landscapes, and the best trekking is from October to March.

Where to sleep

Camping at the official campsites is the classic way, with tents and meals provided by your operator. Simien Lodge near Buyit Ras is one of the highest lodges in Africa, and Limalimo Lodge, near the park edge, is a design-led eco lodge with spectacular views. Debark has simple hotels.

Respecting the park

Stay with your scout and on the trails, keep a respectful distance from geladas and never feed them. Take all rubbish out with you. Villages lie inside the park, and children may ask for pens or sweets: a smile and a greeting are better than handouts, and buying from community projects helps more.

Combining it with the rest of the north

The Simien Mountains pair naturally with Gondar, and many itineraries continue on to Lalibela or Aksum. Use our free trip planner to build a realistic route around flights and current advice.

What to pack

Bring good walking boots, warm layers, a hat and gloves, a head torch, water purification, snacks and a small first aid kit. Tour companies usually supply tents and cooking gear.