Photo of our staff during annual training session
SimienEcoTours
- Office In:
- Size:
- 10-20 employees (Founded in 2014)
- Tour Types:
- Custom mid-range tours that can start every day
- Destinations:
- Price Range:
- $80 to $350 per person per day (USD, excl. int'l flights)
for a custom tour
Your request will be sent directly to the operator
If preferred, you can contact the operator directly
Reviews
CL
Email Victotia | 20-35 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
100% recommended company
Everything about this tour and company was great, from the planning process (they always reply fast and they will adjust everything to your needs) to the tour itself. My guide, Enisha, was really really nice and professional, I always felt comfortable and happy with her. I was travelling on my own on an unknown country, but she and all drivers always made me feel safe and confident. All hotels were good and clean (obviously some are better than other because of the remoteness), they all had good food, the cars were comfortable, and all the sights were great. I would definetly recommend SimienEcoTours.
DE
Email Matthias R. Koch | 65+ years of age | Experience level: first safari
Three fascinating weeks of nature and culture
Back from a three-week solo trip through Ethiopia, filled with fantastic memories...
Although planned relatively last minute (just under three weeks from the initial idea to departure), Franziska from Simien Eco Tours managed to perfectly blend nature, culture, and my main requirement of "no stress" into the tour plan. She even accommodated a slight change of plans because the hippos weren't where they were supposed to be...
So, after arriving in Addis Ababa early in the morning, I didn't immediately catch the next flight – even though Addis isn't exactly the place for relaxing. I took a stroll, lazed around a bit, and then, refreshed, traveled to Lalibela the next day. The unforgettable experience of Orthodox Easter, including participating in the age-old ceremonies, wrapped in a white robe, among thousands of worshippers, was probably my most memorable moment.
So, after arriving in Addis Ababa early in the morning, I didn't immediately catch the next flight – even though Addis isn't exactly known for its tranquility. On the journey to the Simien Mountains, the air became noticeably thin (lodge at 3300m) and cool. A morning hike led to a close encounter with a large troop of baboons (my guide: "No problem, you can go slowly closer" - why was the local guide armed again? Oh yes, potential leopards...) and a fantastic view of the mountains.
We continued by car to Lake Tana - an extensive boat trip, just the right prelude for me, a native of Lake Constance, to an impressive visit to one of the many monasteries on the islands.
The strenuous drive to Tis Abaye was more than compensated for by the hike to the Blue Nile Falls. Here, too, it became clear that the common practice in Ethiopia of hiring a local guide at every location makes for interesting stories. Here, too, the guide seemed to know everyone we met and always had a friendly word for us.
The drive through the Great Rift Valley to Hawassa and a hike along the rift rim to the hot springs really brought home just how ancient this land is...
Arba Minch then became my "no-stress" base for several days of interesting excursions on Lake Abaya and to the Dorze and Konso villages. Thanks to the local guides, the experience was relaxed, fun, and full of warmth – and in the afternoons, I enjoyed a few laps in the decadent tourist pool ;) ...
Yes, I thoroughly enjoyed the trip, never felt unsafe, and always felt well taken care of. Throughout the entire journey, I had an exceptionally attentive ("you have to drink more!!"), knowledgeable, and friendly guide. Even the significant impact of the Iranian crisis was handled well thanks to the perfect organization by Simien Eco Tours. Even bringing binoculars (think carefully about whether you really want them) was made possible through the patient efforts of Marco at customs and my guide on every single domestic flight.
Yes, I thoroughly enjoyed the trip, never felt unsafe, and always felt well looked after. My sincere thanks to the whole team and here's the sixth star "*", because I could only give five.
(automatic translation from German)
Email Thomas | 65+ years of age | Experience level: first safari
Excellent Organization for my mountain bike tour through Ethiopians Southern Mountains
I, Thomas (70, German speaking
from Namibia) did the
“MTB CYCLE TOUR THROUGH THE SOUTHERN MOUNTAINS OF ETHIOPIA - 12 DAYS”
with
SimienEco Tours Organization in Feb.26
We have been only 4 participants and I was the only rider with an E-MTB Scott Strike fully mountain bike, which I rented from the companies fleet of brand new Scott, hard tail & e-bikes.
Chewy, our local guide, was absolutely amazing, his knowledge about his home country Ethiopia, the culture, social structures, political history, all our questions have been answered in a very comprehensive way. His knowledge of the routing, pointing out the difficulty grade of the various descents and uphills.
The 2 local drivers, fully english speaking too, have been an excellent support for us.
Not only driving the two comfortable Land Cruiser vehicles- helping loading and off-loading the bikes and handling the luggage.
All accomodation, 3 meals a la cart and bottled water has been included in the tour price.
Accomodation was ranking within from 2-5 star grading.
Coming from an African country, I was very surprised of the kindness of the people of Ethiopian - alway a smile on their faces, I will never forget.
Many mountains had to be climbed, followed by rewarding downhills.
In the Bale Mountain National Park, we have been lucky to watch the Ethiopian Wolf on a very close distance.
After climbing the 2nd highest point in Ethiopia, the summit of the 4400m high Mount Tullu Dimtu, a spectacular downhill of 2200mh/40km was waiting for us.
It was the highlight at the end of our fantastic Cycling Ethiopia Tour.
380km & 4000hm have been done!
I can recommend these tour for any age group, our eldest participant 83 years of age, managed the tour with a normal “bio fuel bike”!
A healthy & physical good condition is necessary. There are no special skills required. No jumps, no single tracks!
I’m looking forward to return to Ethiopia soon!
An authentic, tailored 10-day Ethiopia experience beyond our expecations
I honestly cannot remember the last time I experienced so much in just 10 days (Lalibela, Omo Valley, Addis, Danakil, Tigray)! Among numerous providers, I came across SimienEcoTours through my own research. From the initial contact to travel planning, preparation, and execution, everything was 100% perfect. As a frequent traveler, this has been my best experience with a travel agency so far.
But let me start from the beginning:
My travel buddy and I only had 10 days but wanted to see as much as possible within that time. We had very little idea of what would actually be feasible. Franziska worked closely with us to design our (rather ambitious) tailor-made itinerary. We especially appreciated the transparent and friendly communication, the efficiency, and the excellent availability (via email as well as phone).
What happened after we booked is ultimately the main reason why we recommend this agency so highly. In the past, once a trip was booked, we usually had little to no contact with the agency until departure. Simien Ecotours, however, prepared us step by step for the journey. The word “attentive” describes the agency very well. From general information about the host country, entry requirements (visa), and a packing list, to setting up a WhatsApp group that included Franziska, Marco (the managing director), our guide, our drivers in the different destinations, and the team members working behind the scenes on logistics — everything was thoughtfully organized.
Perfectly prepared, we traveled to Ethiopia, where we were warmly welcomed at the airport. I was especially grateful for the seamless support with importing my drone. This would not have been possible without the agency (and after the trip, I can confidently say I would have missed my drone very much if I hadn’t been able to bring it).
Our guide, Hailu, accompanied us throughout the entire journey, including domestic flights, so we never had to worry about airport transfers, check-in procedures, or logistics. Hailu is an open-minded and thoughtful person who truly loves his work and his country. We always felt comfortable with and around him. Spontaneous requests or adjustments to the program were never a problem. His English was excellent. What impressed us most was his knowledge — especially about his homeland, but also far beyond that. We learned so much from him and took away countless insights.
You know a guide is exceptional when a certain sense of melancholy sets in while saying goodbye at the airport at the end of the trip.
It is also very important to mention our drivers. In the different regions, we had different local drivers. Most importantly: every single driver drove safely, carefully, and at an appropriate speed. At no point did we feel unsafe. The drivers were always courteous and ultimately much more than “just” drivers.
Overall, the trip was perfectly organized from A to Z. There were not even minor waiting times or issues anywhere. It was a perfect, authentic travel experience far away from tourist crowds.
We would love to end with some constructive criticism - but quite honestly, we simply cannot think of anything. Thanks for everything to the entire team!
Sven and Zoran
CA
Email Greg | 50-65 years of age | Experience level: first safari
A++
SET did an excellent job of organizing a trip catered to what I was looking for, plus they added a few of their suggestions. I can't say enough good things about my guide, Philimon. At every moment, he was on top of what we were doing and had everything in order. He was extremely knowledgeable about culture, history, animals, and geology, and he spoke perfect English. I strongly recommend SimienEcoTours!
CA
Email Aimee | 50-65 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Very professional
We spent 4 nights in the Simon mountains and felt like we were in the hands of a professional company. The food was excellent, plentiful and varied. Our guide was passionate about the mountain and was even a great photographer so we have lots of family photos from the trip. He also had a kean eye for spotting wildlife. Nice extra touches like warm soapy water in the morning and after a day of hiking. Tents were good quality and for camping, the mattresses were comfortable. Highly recommend SimienEcoTours
IT
Email Federica | 35-50 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Reliable, well-organized, and supported by an outstanding local guide.
An amazing and intense trip to Ethiopia, with a perfectly balanced itinerary combining culture and nature: Addis Ababa, Gondar, Lalibela, the Simien Mountains and the Danakil Depression. Each stop was different and impressive, from the extraordinary rock-hewn churches of Lalibela to the breathtaking landscapes of the Simien Mountains and the unique experience in Danakil.
The organization was flawless, with great attention to detail throughout the trip. A real highlight was our local guide, Girum – without a doubt the best guide we’ve ever had: extremely knowledgeable, always available, and always ready with a plan B when unexpected situations arose.
The local agency was reliable and professional. An authentic and unforgettable journey that we highly recommend.
FR
Email YVES | 50-65 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Highly professional, perfect planning, organization, and timing.
Regarding communication, service, value for money, reliability and the trip, everything was perfect... My first trip to Ethiopia was a 10-day journey that exceeded my expectations! First, I encountered a very smiling and welcoming population, which allowed me, from the very first day, to let myself go and enjoy the visits and encounters... Parks: the Simien Mountains, Lakes Abijatta and Shalla National Park... Magnificent and very varied landscapes depending on the region and altitude: mountains, cliffs, forests, fields, crops... Hot springs at 93°C, very practical for cooking eggs, salt and freshwater lakes: Lake Tana (the largest lake in the country, where the Blue Nile originates...), Lake Langano, the Rift Valley, Lakes Shala and Abijatta... Animals: baboons, ostriches, warthogs, jackals, gazelles, birds, more than 450 species... Not forgetting Gondar Castle, the churches and monasteries, the 11 unique churches of Lalibela carved from a single block of volcanic rock, and its painted masterpieces. Sculptures... markets bursting with color and fragrance, the unique falls of the Blue Nile, boat cruises, very comfortable and varied hotels...And I will finish with its traditional dish, injera, with or without meat, but especially with a variety of delicious vegetables: tomatoes, cabbage, chickpeas, lentils, beets, potatoes, kidney beans, onions, chilies... Of course, this delicious meal cannot end without a pure, traditional Arabica coffee served during the 'traditional and ritualized coffee ceremony (Buna)', with incense... I also had the chance to attend the exceptional Orthodox mass (3 hours) on Sunday, November 30th in Lalibela with its chants, dances, music, costumes, and colors... Ethiopia, the only non-colonized country in Africa, is a country with a unique history that deserves to be known, completely different from other African countries... Of course, my stay would not have been so wonderful and successful without 'my' guide, Hailu, a man of exceptional human and intellectual qualities, a great lover of his country, with immense knowledge of Ethiopia, of Africa, Europe, and the world have allowed me to better understand the history and culture of this exceptional country... My stay ended with a meal and a dance party in Addis Ababa, in an exceptional and unique multicultural venue...
DE
Email Monika | 50-65 years of age | Experience level: over 5 safaris
Very nice team taking care about each individual, you can really trust and relax!
I felt very comfortable from the beginning, the whole team was very friendly, took care of everything, was experienced and gave the impression to really work as a team! The tents were very good, the driver prudent, the cook was excellent and our guide really perfect, friendly, he knew everything, had a careful eye on the whole group and team and really likes to work with people.
The team also handled problems very flexible and in a very smooth way. The tour itself was full of different, beautiful aspects of south ethiopia, from the mountains, Coffee, agriculture and animals to salt lake and Hippos, seeing nature and meeting people. Two weeks full of beautiful impressions and experiences! Thanks you!!!
IT
Email Loredana | 50-65 years of age | Experience level: over 5 safaris
fantastic
I wanted to go to Ethiopia with my dog, and the agency's professionalism allowed me to make my dream come true. It was a wonderful experience: I saw beautiful places, met fantastic people, and above all, I had 24-hour assistance from my guide, Girum. The hotels were all excellent, obviously compared to Ethiopian standards. The food was excellent, and for car transfers, the drivers were always excellent, especially Gigi.