Ras Dejen (4,550m) is the highest point on Simien Mountains, and 10th highest on the African continent. Simien Mountains National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the Amhara region (Northern Ethiopia). The mountains have endless views of high peaks amidst vast green valleys that stretch as far as the eye can see. Home to the very rare Walia Ibex (endangered, with only approximately 500 left), and the Gelada baboons (species of Old World monkey only found in the Ethiopian Highlands). Lucky travellers may also spot the Ethiopian wolf/Simien fox, whose beautiful red fur is a sight to behold. Unfortunately, there are very few left in the wild, but can be spotted while exploring the plateaus of the Simien Mountains. The jagged mountain landscape also has a huge profile of flowers, trees, and plants that are unique to the Ethiopian Highlands, often referred to as “the Roof of Africa”.
Trails wind through the park to camps at Sankaber, Geech and Chenek. The central Gidir Got and Imet Gogo summit lookouts have panoramic views of sheer cliff drops, waterfalls and the lush lowlands below. This special landscape has been kept free of development and human intrusion for over 5 decades. The remote location has also kept tourist numbers low, allowing travelers to enjoy being off the beaten track, and truly in the wild.
The mountain can easily be conquered in 4 days, and we highly recommend this addition to your bucket list! You should not miss this adventure so definitely ensure it is part of your Ethiopian travel itinerary!
Besides the majestic mountain range, Ethiopia, has a lot of raw beauty to offer. Its traditions are still alive and is a cultural hotbed of encounters and should not be missed. Important experiences:
- Enjoy the vibrancy of the capital city – Addis Ababa, visit the museums, enjoy the local cuisine, beers
- Lalibela with its rock-cut Christian churches from the 12-13 century,
- Hike up the active volcano, Erta Ale
- Visit one of the lowest points on the planet – Danakil Depression in Dalol, where the temperature heats up to 55 degrees Celsius.
- Visit the monasteries at Lake Tana
- Immerse yourself in royalty at the Gondar Castle
- Enjoy the coffee ceremony before indulging in the rich brew
- Drink some Tej (Ethiopian honey wine)
- Meet the locals down south in the Omo Valley
Feel free to reach out for booking and any queries for an unforgettable trip through Ethiopia now here!
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