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The vast Simien Mountains National Park is majestically situated in one of Africa's largest ranges. Ras Dashen is Africa's 4th highest peak (4543m). Mule trekking is the mode of transport to view the Simien National Park as terrain is very challenging. The views over the valleys and mountains from are awe-inspiring. Starting at the Sankabar campsite, the mule trek covers the most impressive part of the trip in terms of scenery. Three of Ethiopia's endemic large mammals are resident in the Simien Mountains National Park. The Gelada baboon is the most common of these, with an estimated population of 7000. The rare Ethiopian wolf, also found here has a small population of about 50 animals. The Walia ibex was poached close to extinction in the late 1960s and there are about 1000 animals left. Hikers quite often see Walia ibex from the trail running along between Geech and Chenek. Visitors should be prepared for extreme temperatures. Maximum day time temperatures are approximately 15°C and evenings drop down to 3°C. October, November and December are the coldest months with temperatures below freezing. The rainy season is June to September where several rivers flood. The best time for trekking is January till May and October till December.

Itinerary: 6 nights

• DAY 1: Addis Ababa
  Arrive in Addis Ababa, the Ethiopian capital. Our agents will meet you at the Bole International airport and transfer you to your hotel. Overnight stay at the Ghion Hotel (Dinner).
• DAY 2: Addis Ababa - Gondar - Geech campsite
  Transfer to the airport your check in for your flight to Gondar, a remarkable town founded in 1632 by the great Emperor Fasilidas. A 3½ hour drive from the Gondar to the outback town of Debark, the access town for the Simien Mountains National Park. In Debark the mules, permits, supplies and guides are organised. Drive a further ½ hour to Sankabar ascending gradually. A three hour hike brings you to the Geech campsite (3660 m) on the precipitous Simien escarpment, where there are wonderful views of the mountains and gorges. At Geech Abyss there is a waterfall and great sightings of Egyptian Vultures and Lammergeyers soaring effortlessly over the gorge. The trek passes through cultivated areas and into true Afro-alpine vegetation, where Giant Lobelias stand like sentinels presiding over the eerie landscape. This is the place to hopefully see the Gelada Baboons, famous for their leonine manes and "bleeding heart" patches. For birders you may get the chance to tick off Rueppell's Griffons, rockchats and choughs. Organised camping at Geech campsite (full board).
• DAY 3: Geech - Imet Gogo - Geech
  More mule trekking from Geech camp to Imet Gogo (3990 m). This is where you may well see the rare Walia Ibex who browse the inaccessible cliff faces. Breathtaking views from Gidgergot and two other peaks Kadadit (hole in the rock) and Saaha. Organised camping at Geech campsite (Full board).
• DAY 4: Geech - Chenek campsite
  Hike along the escarpment to Inatye, a viewpoint with breathtaking views. Then resume walking along the trail to Chenek campsite (3700m), passing Giant Heath (trees) along the way. Although this route is more strenuous it is very scenic. Chenek campsite has a small hut providing shelter for cooking and a deck with spectacular views. Organised camping at Chenek campsite (Full board).
• DAY 5: Chenek campsite- Gondar
  Transfer by vehicle and drive to Gondar (5 hours). Visit the Royal Compound in the afternoon. Gondar was the royal capital of Ethiopia. Explore the castles and Emperor Fasilidas bathing pool. From here it is a short walk to the Debre Birhan Selassie church, possibly the most famous church in Ethiopia with breathtaking murals on the ceiling. Overnight Goha hotel (Full board).

Goha Hotel ***

• DAY 6: Gondar- Addis Ababa
  Transfer to the airport and fly to Addis Ababa. Balance of the day spent souvenir-shopping, visiting the colourful and vast Merkato market. Overnight stay at the Ghion Hotel. (Full Board)
• DAY 7: Flight out
  Transfer to the airport and fly out.

International flight ex Johannesburg and internal flights with Ethiopian airlines, hotel accommodation and meals as indicated, organised camping with all equipment, airport-hotel transfers, all excursions to sites of interest as per itinerary, English speaking guides for all places, cook and mule and scouts.

Not included:

Visa fees, drinks, tips, personal expenses, travel insurance and airport taxes

Please note:

Porters or pack animals carry most of the gear and camp supplies. No technical climbing is required. You should be equipped with a spirit of adventure and a willingness to undergo the potential hardship of outdoor living and long days on the trail.

Below is an approximate price per person sharing (October 2008):

• ex Johannesburg: USD 3048; EUR 2066, ZAR 20 916
  
• ex Addis Ababa USD 2496; EUR 1692
  

Links:

 International based travel agents, tour operators and residents click here for an accurate online quote.

 South African based agents, operators and residents, please click here for online quoting in Rand.

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