The Semien Mountain group dominates and divides the Ethiopian country into distinctly contrasting highland and lowland regions. With over twenty peaks towering to heights above 4000 meters this massif can rightfully be called the “Roof Of Africa” even though its highest peak, Ras Dashen at 4542 meters, is only the fourth highest mountain in Africa. This UNESCO World Heritage National Park is characterized by gentle highland ridges, which end abruptly at 1000- 2000 meters deep escarpments.
The precipitous cliffs and deep canyon style gorges provide a feast for the eyes and the natural viewpoints allow views of up to 100 kms over the lowland valleys!
The trekking component of this trip is unusual in many ways.
The trek will be fully supported by a team including guides, armed soldiers, camp assistants and a cook, whilst horses and their handlers provide porter services. Further, the trek takes place in a National Park that provides a habitat for some of Ethiopia’s rare wildlife and birdlife species.
Whilst trekking it is not unusual to walk among groups of Gelada baboons, to see Walia mountain goats on the rocky edges of cliffs and to see or hear Ethiopia’s many endemic birds and, if very fortunate, the highly endangered Ethiopian wolf.
Added to this is the interaction with the small villages and the insight gained into their lives as they struggle to survive with little natural resources.
As you follow the paths being walked on over the ages by the highland people, you will often be joined by young herd boys as they take care of their cattle and goats.
Add to this the incredible mountain scenery of the World Heritage listed Simien Mountains and you have an unbelievable and unusual trekking tour.
The trek requires a good level of fitness as the paths traverse mountainsides, climb over passes and descend through river valleys. The ‘up-and-down’ nature of this tour commonly results in gains and losses of hundreds of meters of altitude in the same day. This trekking adventure will ensure you leave with incredible memories of the outstanding beauty of Ethiopia and of its culture. Order your trip in the Semien Mountains now with The Simien Mountains Experts for the experience of a lifetime!