2-Day Simien Mountains Trekking Adventure
Overview
Experience one of Africa’s most spectacular mountain landscapes on this unforgettable two-day trekking adventure through the breathtaking Simien Mountains National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Renowned for its dramatic escarpments, deep valleys, towering peaks and endemic wildlife, the Simien Mountains offer an exceptional trekking experience for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
This carefully designed trek follows one of the park’s most scenic routes, leading to the beautiful Sankaber campsite while offering excellent opportunities to encounter Gelada baboons, endemic bird species and stunning panoramic viewpoints.
Highlights
- Trek through the UNESCO-listed Simien Mountains National Park
- Camp overnight at the scenic Sankaber Camp
- Observe endemic Gelada baboons in their natural habitat
- Visit the spectacular Jinbar Waterfall viewpoint
- Enjoy breathtaking mountain panoramas and dramatic escarpments
- Experience authentic wilderness camping under Africa’s star-filled skies
What To Expect
After an early breakfast, depart from Gondar and drive north to Debark, the gateway to Simien Mountains National Park. Upon arrival, complete the park entrance formalities before meeting your official park scout, local guide and mule handlers who will accompany you throughout the trek. Continue by vehicle to the trekking starting point at Buyit Ras (approximately 3,000 metres above sea level), where your adventure begins.
Enjoy a scenic trek through rolling highland grasslands, dramatic cliffs and breathtaking viewpoints overlooking the vast escarpments of the Simien Mountains. Along the trail, observe large troops of endemic Gelada baboons grazing peacefully across the plateau, while keeping an eye out for Klipspringers, soaring Lammergeyers (Bearded Vultures), Augur Buzzards and numerous endemic bird species. The hike continues to the spectacular Jinbar Waterfall viewpoint, where the waterfall plunges hundreds of metres into a deep canyon.
Continue trekking to Sankaber Camp (approximately 3,250 metres), where your tents will already be prepared by the support team. Enjoy a freshly prepared dinner before relaxing beneath one of Africa's clearest night skies.
Driving: ~120 km (3–4 hrs) • Trekking: 12 km (4–6 hrs) • Max elevation ~3,250 m • Meals: Lunch & Dinner • Overnight: Camping at Sankaber Camp
Wake up to the crisp mountain air and enjoy breakfast while watching the sunrise illuminate the dramatic cliffs and valleys of the Simien Mountains. Begin a leisurely morning hike around Sankaber, offering additional opportunities to observe Gelada baboons, endemic wildlife and magnificent mountain scenery before returning to Buyit Ras.
After completing the trek, meet your vehicle and drive back through Debark to Gondar, arriving in the afternoon and marking the end of your memorable Simien Mountains adventure.
Trekking: 8 km (3–4 hrs) • Driving: ~120 km (3–4 hrs) • Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
What's included
- Private transportation in a 4WD or comfortable tourist vehicle (depending on group size)
- Professional English-speaking tour guide
- Licensed Simien Mountains National Park local guide
- Mandatory armed park scout
- Simien Mountains National Park entrance fees
- Camping permit and campsite fees
- Mule and mule handler for camping equipment
- High-quality camping tent
- Camping cook and cooking equipment
- Full board meals throughout the tour
- Bottled drinking water during the trek
- Tea and coffee during camping
- Government taxes and service charges
What's not included
- International and domestic flights
- Personal trekking equipment
- Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks
- Tips and gratuities for guides, scout, cook, mule handlers and driver
- Any services not specifically mentioned under “Tour Includes”
Packing Essentials
- Comfortable, broken-in hiking boots
- Warm fleece or insulated jacket (nights are cold at altitude)
- Waterproof rain jacket
- Hat, sunglasses, sunscreen and lip balm
- Reusable water bottle
- Headlamp or flashlight with spare batteries
- Personal toiletries and any personal medications
- Camera and binoculars
- Small daypack for the trail
Frequently Asked Questions
How fit do I need to be for the 2-day Simien trek?
A moderate to good level of fitness is recommended. You will trek roughly 4–6 hours on day one and 3–4 hours on day two at altitudes around 3,000–3,250 m, on well-established trails. Mules carry the camping equipment, so you only need to carry a light daypack.
Where do we sleep on this tour?
You camp one night at Sankaber Camp (approximately 3,250 m) in high-quality tents set up in advance by the support crew, with a cook preparing full-board meals.
What wildlife might I see?
The Simien Mountains are famous for large troops of endemic Gelada baboons. You may also spot Klipspringers, Lammergeyers (Bearded Vultures), Augur Buzzards and many endemic highland bird species.
When is the best time to trek the Simien Mountains?
The main dry season from October to March offers the clearest views and most comfortable trekking conditions. Treks run year-round, though July and August can be wet.
Proudly Community-Owned
The communities visitable in this area are warm and friendly. If you would like to support them directly, small donations are highly appreciated:
- Pens and school supplies
- Books
- Used clothes
- Children's items
- Any useful materials you feel may benefit the local community
