Trekking
5-Day Simien Mountains Trekking
Sankaber, Gich, the Inatye escarpment and Chenek: the finest walking in the Simien.
- Duration
- 5 Days
- Season
- September to June
- Group Size
- 1 to 12 guests
- Starting from
- $1,200
The Journey
4 nights, designed around the hours that matter
Five days on foot through the Roof of Africa. Trek from Sankaber to Gich, cross the high Inatye escarpment to Chenek, then spend a full day walking around Chenek, where walia ibex, gelada and, with luck, the Ethiopian wolf share some of the most spectacular cliff scenery on the continent.
Day by Day
Detailed Day-by-Day Itinerary
This itinerary is carefully planned, but minor adjustments may be made due to weather, local festivals, road conditions or your personal interests to ensure the best possible experience.
Day 1
Addis Ababa – Fly to Gondar – Simien National Park
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your Ethiopian Airlines flight to Gondar. Upon arrival, meet your driver and continue to Sankaber, the starting point of your Simien Mountains trek. Located at the edge of the national park, Sankaber offers sweeping views of jagged cliffs and deep valleys. Meet your trekking team, including local guides, scouts, and pack animals. Begin a short warm-up hike and settle into your first campsite in the wilderness.
Day 2
Trek from Sankaber to Gich
Your first full trekking day begins with a scenic 5 to 7-hour hike to Gich Camp. Along the way, pass the spectacular Jinnbar Falls and cross the Jinnbar River before climbing steadily to Gich. Keep an eye out for large troops of Gelada baboons, often seen grazing along the cliffs. The changing landscapes and open meadows provide excellent photo opportunities throughout the day.
Day 3
Trek from Gich to Chenek via Inatye Escarpment
Today’s trek is one of the most beautiful sections of the Simien Mountains. Follow the dramatic Inatye Escarpment, reaching elevations above 4,000 meters and offering sweeping views over the valleys below. Descend to Chenek Camp, where sightings of Walia ibex, endemic to the Simien Mountains, are common, along with more Gelada baboons and highland bird species. This is a challenging but rewarding day.
Day 4
Day Trekking Around Chenek
Spend a full day exploring the Chenek area, home to rugged peaks, deep gorges, and abundant wildlife. Optional hikes lead to spectacular viewpoints or higher elevations, including an ascent toward Bwahit Pass (4,200m), one of the highest points in Ethiopia. Alternatively, enjoy a more relaxed walk through the surrounding landscapes, taking in the serenity and raw beauty of the Simien wilderness.
Day 5
Return to Gondar – Fly to Addis Ababa – Departure
After breakfast, drive back to Gondar and board your return flight to Addis Ababa. In the evening, enjoy a farewell cultural dinner featuring traditional Ethiopian cuisine, live music, and folk dances from various ethnic groups. Conclude your experience with a traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony. Later, transfer to Bole International Airport for your departure or onward journey.
What Is Included
- Meet-and-assist at Bole International Airport and all transfers
- Domestic flights as shown in the itinerary
- Private air-conditioned vehicle with a professional driver
- Licensed English-speaking guide (other languages on request)
- 4 nights of accommodation: Camping
- Full board: breakfast, lunch and dinner
- National park fees, armed scout and local guides
- Camping equipment, cook and pack mules or porters
Not Included
- International flights and Ethiopian visa
- Travel insurance (strongly recommended)
- Personal trekking gear and sleeping bag
- Drinks, tips and personal expenses
Before You Book
Questions about this journey
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Guest reviews
What our guests say
Rated 5.0 on Tripadvisor and Google, and 4.9 on SafariBookings.
“My tour operator was very communicative even before the trip began and very responsive on WhatsApp. He booked all my domestic flights and arranged all my airport pick-ups and drop-offs. He had professional guides in all the regions I visited, the itinerary was clear, and he was flexible with any changes. There were no extra costs. He is reliable, communicative and well experienced. I will be back with the same company.”
Sarah · Kenya · August 2026
Read more reviews on SafariBookings“Excellent services provided by Maereg and his team. The local guides and the drivers – Geta (my fave) – were all great. They were patient, professional, knowledgeable and took great care of us. Everything was seamlessly coordinated and they were always on time for pickups and made sure we were briefed in advance of the itinerary and any changes. One of my top travel destinations in Africa, with some of the kindest and warmest people. Maereg went above and beyond! First-class service, always with a smile!”
D Thomas · Google review · May 2026
Read more reviews on GoogleEnquire
Make 5-Day Simien Mountains Trekking yours
Send us your dates and we will confirm availability, quote precisely, and suggest the two or three changes we would make if it were our own trip.
Runs September to June · 1 to 12 guests · starting from $1,200 per person
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