8 Days Trip to the Simien Mountains
Day 1: Gondar–Sankaber (3250 m), 3–4 hrs
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 into the mountains. Continue driving to Michibiny, then start an introductory 6 km walk to Sankaber campsite along the escarpment (3–4 hrs). You will encounter Gelada baboons along this hike.
Day 2: Sankaber–Gich (3600 m), 5–6 hrs
Follow the northern escarpment eastward before descending slightly into the Kaba Valley. Continue over a narrow ridge to a cliff with a spectacular view of the Abyss and the Simien foothills. Here, the Jinbahir River plunges 500 m into the Abyss. After lunch by the river, proceed to Gich camp, where you can spot Lammergeyer and Thick-billed ravens.
Day 3: Gich, 4–5 hrs
Spend an extra day at Gich to acclimatize and enjoy the stunning viewpoints. Walk to Imet-Gogo (3926 m), Seha (3785 m), and Kedadit (3765 m). Imet-Gogo offers the most spectacular views of the Simien Mountains. After lunch at camp, visit Kedadit for a magnificent sunset view before returning for dinner.
Day 4: Gich–Chenek (3600 m), 7–8 hrs
Start through the Giant Lobelia fields before descending into the Jinbahir River valley. The trail follows the escarpment edge with dramatic cliffs. Climb to 4070 m for lunch, then descend for two hours along a steep trail to Chennek camp. Enjoy panoramic views and look out for Walia Ibex in the late afternoon or early morning.
Day 5: Chennek–Sona (3100 m), 6–7 hrs
Hike up to Buwahit peak (4430 m), one of the highest in the Simiens, where you may encounter Walia Ibex. Descend along rocky trails to 4200 m, then continue for another two hours to reach Sona camp, located opposite Imet-Gogo and offering magnificent window views.
Day 6: Sona–Mekarebia (2200 m), 6–7 hrs
Walk through Sona village, descending for about 3.5 hours to the Insia River, where you can swim and experience a local coffee ceremony. Spend time relaxing or washing clothes, then continue for 1.5 hours to Mekarebia camp, surrounded by small valleys and evening shadows.
Day 7: Mekarebia–Mulit (1800 m), 6–7 hrs
Cross the same river several times and visit the Derek-Wonz natural pool for a refreshing swim and lunch. Continue uphill to Awasza village, then reach the grassy plateau of Mulit camp. Enjoy a farewell evening with campfire and traditional “Eskista” shoulder dancing.
Day 8: Mulit–Gondar
Take a short 2-hour walk to Adiarkay, where your jeep awaits. Optionally enjoy tea or coffee before starting the 6-hour drive back to Gondar through scenic, forested hills and zigzag roads, including the historic Italian-built Limalimo road.
✅ Included Services
- 🚗 4W Drive Vehicle: with driver and fuel included
- 🎟️ All Entrance Fees: access to all attractions mentioned in the itinerary
- 💧 Bottled Water: stay hydrated during your tours
- ☕ Cultural Coffee: experience traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremonies
- 🗣️ English Speaking Guides: expert guidance throughout your journey
- 🍽️ All meals Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner: enjoy delicious meals at selected locations
- 🏨 Hotel Accommodation: any unlisted or personal stays
- 👨🏫 Professional Guide Service: personalized assistance and local insights
📸 Camera & Video Charges: personal photography or filming with special fees
❌ Excluded Services
- 🍷 Alcoholic Drinks: not included in the package
- ✈️ Any Flight: international or extra flights are excluded
- 🛡️ Personal Insurance: travel or medical insurance not included
- 💰 Personal Tips & Gratitude: for guides, drivers, or staff
- 🛍️ Shopping Items: souvenirs or personal purchases
📝 SMT Tour – Cancellation Policy
🙋♂️ Cancellation by You (the Traveler)
- 📅 More than 30 days before the tour: Full refund minus a 10% administrative fee.
- 📅 15–30 days before the tour: 50% refund of the total booking amount.
- 📅 Less than 15 days before the tour: No refund.
🏛️ Cancellation by SMT Tour
In rare cases, if SMT Tour must cancel a tour, you will receive a full refund. Whenever possible, we will also offer alternative dates or similar tour options.
🔄 Changes to Your Booking
Changes such as dates or number of travelers are subject to availability and may incur additional charges. Please contact us as early as possible to make adjustments.
🌪️ Force Majeure
SMT Tour is not responsible for cancellations due to events beyond our control, including natural disasters, political unrest, or pandemics. We will assist with rescheduling or providing credit for future tours.
💳 Refund Process
Refunds are processed to the original payment method within 7–14 business days after cancellation confirmation.
💡 Travel Tip
We recommend purchasing travel insurance to cover unexpected situations that may affect your travel plans.