6-Day Simien Mountains, Gondar & Bahir Dar

• A transfer from the airport can be arranged for an extra cost.
• Accommodation before the tour starts can be arranged for an extra cost.

Arrival in Gondar – Gateway to the Highlands

Arrive in Gondar, often called the “Camelot of Africa,” a city steeped in history and perched in the Ethiopian highlands. Your first day includes a visit to the impressive Royal Enclosure (Fasil Ghebbi), a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring castles, palaces, and ancient walls built during the 17th and 18th centuries. Explore Fasilides’ Bath, famous for its Timkat festival, and the beautifully adorned Debre Berhan Selassie Church, renowned for its stunning ceiling frescoes of angels. Immerse yourself in Gondar’s rich royal past as you prepare for your journey ahead.

Main Destination:

Gondar (City)

Accommodation:

Haile Resort Gondar

• Mid-range hotel located in Gondar (City)

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Meals & Drinks:

• Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included)
• Drinks not included

Gondar to Simien Mountains National Park

Depart from Gondar and drive north into the spectacular Simien Mountains National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its jagged peaks, deep valleys, and dramatic escarpments. Upon arrival, begin your adventure with a short hike to Sankaber, a scenic spot offering breathtaking views over the mountain ridges and cliffs. Along the way, encounter Gelada baboons, an endemic species unique to Ethiopia, often seen in large troops grazing on the highland plateaus. Enjoy panoramic views, waterfalls, and alpine flora as you soak in the park's natural beauty.

Main Destination:

Simien Mountains National Park

Best Time To Visit September to December (Beautiful scenery)

High Season October to April (Lodges are busy)

Best Weather October to April

Wildlife in Simien Mountains NP

Gelada Monkey Abundant

Walia Ibex Occasional

Ethiopian Wolf Rare

Klipspringer Rare

Bushbuck Rare

Show more

Golden Jackal Rare

Hyena Rare

Accommodation:

Limalimo Lodge

• Mid-range lodge located just outside Simien Mountains NP

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Meals & Drinks:

• Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included)
• Drinks not included

Full Day Trekking in the Simien Mountains

Spend a full day trekking through the awe-inspiring landscapes of the Simien Mountains, often referred to as the "Roof of Africa." Hike along dramatic escarpments and high-altitude trails while enjoying panoramic views of rugged cliffs, deep valleys, and alpine meadows. Keep your eyes open for endemic wildlife such as the Walia ibex, Gelada baboons, and — if you’re lucky — the elusive Ethiopian wolf. Stop for a scenic picnic lunch on the trail before continuing your trek. In the late afternoon, return to your lodge or campsite for a well-deserved dinner and rest under the highland stars.

Main Destination:

Simien Mountains National Park

Accommodation:

Limalimo Lodge

• Mid-range lodge located just outside Simien Mountains NP

Meals & Drinks:

• Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included)
• Drinks not included

Simien Mountains to Gondar – Return and Relax

After breakfast, depart the highlands and enjoy a scenic drive back to Gondar, passing through picturesque landscapes and rural villages. Arrive in the early afternoon and enjoy some time at leisure — relax at your hotel or choose an optional cultural excursion to visit local markets, traditional weavers, or community projects that offer insight into Gondar’s vibrant daily life. This slower-paced day provides a chance to unwind and reflect on your Simien trekking adventure.

Main Destination:

Gondar (City)

Accommodation:

Gondar Hills Resort

• Mid-range resort located in Gondar (City)

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Meals & Drinks:

• Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included)
• Drinks not included

Gondar to Bahir Dar – Blue Nile & Lake Tana Exploration

After breakfast, drive from Gondar to Bahir Dar, a scenic journey through lush highland countryside and traditional Amhara villages. In the afternoon, enjoy a boat excursion on Lake Tana, Ethiopia’s largest lake, to explore ancient island monasteries such as Ura Kidane Mehret, famous for its vivid frescoes and sacred relics. Later, head to Bezawit Hill for a stunning sunset view over the Blue Nile River and Lake Tana’s shimmering waters.

Main Destination:

Bahir Dar (City)

Accommodation:

Delano Hotel

• Mid-range hotel located in Bahir Dar (City)

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Meals & Drinks:

• Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included)
• Drinks not included

Visit Blue Nile Falls & Return to Addis Ababa

Begin your day with a short drive and hike to the spectacular Blue Nile Falls (Tis Issat), known locally as “The Smoking Water.” Enjoy views of the thundering cascade, lush greenery, and local wildlife as you cross a 17th-century Portuguese bridge and interact with villagers along the trail. After your visit, return to Bahir Dar for lunch and transfer to the airport for your flight back to Addis Ababa. Upon arrival, conclude your tour or enjoy an optional traditional dinner before departure.
End of Tour.

Main Destination:

Addis Ababa (City)

Accommodation:

No accommodation (End of tour)

Meals & Drinks:

• Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included)
• Drinks not included

• Additional accommodation can be arranged for an extra cost.
• A transfer back to the airport can be arranged for an extra cost.