Day 1: Addis–Gondar

A short morning flight takes you to Gondar and a warm welcome to the old mountain capital of Gondar. Transfer to your hotel. Gondar has a rich history with its beautiful and strategic mountain setting — the 17th-century capital was once the crossroads of several major caravan routes and was also occupied by the Italians during World War II. The Art Deco buildings surrounding the Royal Enclosure with its medieval castles and churches are a reminder of this heritage. In the afternoon, explore Gondar’s castles and the Church of Debre Berhan Selassie with its iconic ceiling of painted angels.

Day 2: Gondar–Sankaber (3250 m)

Drive from Gondar early in the morning to Debark, where the park headquarters are located. Spend about an hour arranging entrance fees, picking up a scout, and enjoying tea or coffee before heading to the mountains. Continue driving to Michibiny and start the introductory walk to the first campsite, Sankaber, for about 3–4 hours along the plateau, far from the edge of the mountain. Overnight at Sankaber. You will encounter Gelada baboons along this hike.

Day 3: Sankaber–Gich (3600 m), 5–6 hrs

Follow the northern escarpment eastward before descending into the Kaba Valley. Continue over a narrow ridge to a cliff with a spectacular view of the Abyss toward the Simien foothills. The Jinbahir River plunges 500 m into the Abyss here. After lunch by the river, walk to Gich camp, a great area to look for Lammergeyer and Thick-billed ravens.

Day 4: Gich (3600 m), 5–6 hrs

Walk to the three marvelous viewpoints: Imet-Gogo (3926 m), Seha (3785 m), and Kedadit (3765 m). Imet-Gogo offers one of the most spectacular views in the Simien Mountains — a must-see highlight. After spending time there, walk back to camp via Seha and have lunch. In the late afternoon, visit Kedadit for its beautiful sunset before returning to camp for dinner.

Day 5: Gich–Chennek (3600 m), 6–7 hrs

Start with a downhill walk to the Jin Bahir Valley, followed by an uphill trail through Erica Arboria forest and fields of Giant Lobelia. The path across the plateau is grassy and comfortable, dominated by these two plant species.

Day 6: Chennek–Buwahit–Chennek, 5–6 hrs

This day involves more uphill and downhill trekking. The climb up Mt. Buwahit (4430 m) is rewarding, offering views of Ethiopia’s highest peak, Ras-Dejen (4543 m), and magnificent scenery. The trek takes around 5–6 hours round trip, with a second night at Chennek.

Day 7: Chennek–Gondar

The final trekking day. Relax in the morning before the jeep arrives to take you back to Gondar (approx. 5 hours). Overnight in Gondar.

Note: The trek is flexible and includes the best scenic parts of the Simien Mountains. A riding horse accompanies you for safety throughout the trek.

Day 8: Gondar–Lalibela

Fly to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Lalibela — often called the Jerusalem of Ethiopia and Africa’s own ‘Petra’. Explore the red-hued rock-hewn churches carved into the rock. Your guide will lead you through tunnels and crevices linking the ancient structures, many of which are still active places of worship today.

Day 9: Lalibela

Visit the eastern group of rock-hewn churches — smaller in size but equally impressive, with intricate carvings and dark tunnels. Continue to the Nakutelab rock-hewn church built in a natural cave. In the afternoon, visit a private home for a traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony.

Day 10: Lalibela–Addis

Fly back to Addis Ababa, marking the end of your incredible Simien and Historical adventure.