7-Day Simien Mountains , Gondar Castelel and Bahir Dar
Offered by vowland Ethiopia Tour and Travel
Once-in-a-lifetime Experience
This safari includes exclusive access to private conservancies and top-rated guides.
Fully Inclusive
Accommodation, meals, transport, and park fees are all included in the price.
About this safari
<h2>Discover Ethiopia's Imperial Heartland and Mountain Wilderness</h2><p>Experience the raw majesty of <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" class="text-green-700 underline font-medium" href="https://safarifind.com/destinations/simien-mountains">Simien Mountains</a>, the architectural splendor of Ethiopia's ancient capitals, and the spiritual richness of the Blue Nile region. This seven-day journey weaves together dramatic highland peaks, UNESCO-listed castles, and timeless cultural landscapes into an unforgettable African adventure.</p><h2>The Experience</h2><p>Begin in <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" class="text-green-700 underline font-medium" href="https://safarifind.com/destinations/addis-ababa">Addis Ababa</a>, Ethiopia's vibrant capital, before ascending into the <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" class="text-green-700 underline font-medium" href="https://safarifind.com/destinations/simien-mountains">Simien Mountains</a>—a UNESCO World Heritage Site where jagged escarpments rise above 4,000 meters. Here, you'll trek through alpine meadows, encounter endemic wildlife including the elusive Walia ibex, and witness sunrises that paint the landscape in shades of gold and crimson. The mountains feel like stepping into another world, where time moves differently and nature commands your full attention.</p><p>From the peaks, descend to <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" class="text-green-700 underline font-medium" href="https://safarifind.com/destinations/gondar">Gondar</a>, the 17th-century royal capital, where remarkable stone castles and churches showcase Ethiopia's imperial past. Walk through the Fasil Ghebbi compound, explore ornate palaces, and visit ancient churches adorned with religious art and history. <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" class="text-green-700 underline font-medium" href="https://safarifind.com/destinations/gondar">Gondar</a> offers a tangible connection to Ethiopia's golden age of power and culture.</p><p>The journey concludes at <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" class="text-green-700 underline font-medium" href="https://safarifind.com/destinations/bahir-dar">Bahir Dar</a>, where the Blue Nile begins its legendary journey to Egypt. Explore the region's ancient monasteries on nearby islands, witness the thunderous Blue Nile Falls, and experience the laid-back charm of a lakeside town steeped in spiritual significance.</p><h2>Why This Journey</h2><p>This package combines three distinct Ethiopian experiences—mountain wilderness, imperial heritage, and sacred waters—into one seamless narrative. Unlike typical African safaris, this trip emphasizes cultural immersion, historical exploration, and high-altitude adventure in a mid-range-luxury setting. You'll experience Ethiopia as few travelers do: trekking through some of Africa's most dramatic landscapes while uncovering the stories of emperors, saints, and mountain peoples who have shaped this ancient nation.</p><h2>Frequently Asked Questions</h2><ul><li><p><strong>What is the best time to visit?</strong> October to November and February to March offer ideal conditions—cool temperatures in the mountains, clear skies, and dry trekking paths.</p></li><li><p><strong>Is this trip physically demanding?</strong> The <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" class="text-green-700 underline font-medium" href="https://safarifind.com/destinations/simien-mountains">Simien Mountains</a> trekking involves high altitude and moderate hiking; the trip suits travelers with reasonable fitness levels. Guides will adjust pace to your ability.</p></li><li><p><strong>What wildlife might we encounter?</strong> Watch for Walia ibex, gelada baboons, lammergeiers, and other endemic species in the mountains. The trip is not a traditional big-game safari.</p></li><li><p><strong>How much cultural interaction is included?</strong> This journey emphasizes authentic engagement—from monastery visits to interactions with local communities, with experienced guides providing cultural context throughout.</p></li></ul><p></p>
Day-by-day Itinerary
D1Fly from Addis to Gondar Drive to Sankaber
Gondar • Simien Lodge
Fly from Addis to Gondar Drive to Sankaber
Gondar • Simien Lodge
<p>From Addis Ababa, you'll go to Gondar. You'll drive to Michibiny with a brief stop at the Simien Mountains National Park headquarters to arrange the permit. You'll start the trekking easily with a 2-3-hour hike to Sankaber, a good way to acclimatize and get used to the altitude</p>
D2Hike Sankaber to Gich (3600 m)
Simien Mountains National Park • Simien Lodge
Hike Sankaber to Gich (3600 m)
Simien Mountains National Park • Simien Lodge
<p>Today's trek covers a distance of approximately 12 km and takes around 5-6 hours. The hike goes through highland grasslands, heather forests, and cultivated fields, and follows a spectacular escarpment with dramatic views.<br><br>You will encounter the friendly Gelada baboons, foraging in big groups. A stunning viewpoint at the Jinbar Falls is reached after clambering up a few rocks. This waterfall plunges several hundred meters down the escarpment into the abyss.<br><br>At the end of the day, you'll pass through the welcoming village of Gich, where the local people are happy to prepare a well-deserved coffee. The coffee ceremony is an important social event in Ethiopian culture. The camp for the night is not far from the village</p>
D3Hike Gich to Chennek (3620 m)
Simien Mountains National Park
Hike Gich to Chennek (3620 m)
Simien Mountains National Park
<p>This is a long but probably the most spectacular stage of the trek, offering stunning views all the way.<br><br>Today you'll hike 7-8 hours to cover 12 km, including a short detour to Imet Gogo (3925 m). This summit offers the most exciting views. The giant lobelia is abundant on the Gich plateau. The majestic lammergeyer might soar the skies in front of you, and the endemic thick-billed raven will be present.<br><br>On your way to Chennek, you'll pass some other major peaks (Inataye reaching 4070 meters) and a deep valley. Chennek is the best place to spot the endemic and endangered Walia Ibex. They do not often walk into the camp</p>
D4Hike Chennek to Ras Bwahit (4430 m) Drive (4 hrs) to Gondar
Gondar • Haile Resort Gondar
Hike Chennek to Ras Bwahit (4430 m) Drive (4 hrs) to Gondar
Gondar • Haile Resort Gondar
<p>The last day in the Simien Mountains takes us up to the Bwahit Pass (4200 m). If you've got the energy, you can hike all the way to Ras Bwahit, the second-highest peak of Ethiopia after Ras Dashen. Total hike is 10 km, 5-6 hrs. Not only will you likely spot the Walia Ibex, but you might even spot the endemic and extremely rare Ethiopian Wolf. In the late afternoon, you'll drive back to Gondar</p>
D5Gonder Castel City Tour
Gondar
Gonder Castel City Tour
Gondar
<p>Morning: You'll start at Fasil Ghebbi, the royal enclosure with 17th-century castles.<br><br>Midday: You'll visit Debre Birhan Selassie Church, famous for its angelic ceiling paintings.<br><br>Afternoon: You will explore Fasilides Bath, a historic site used for Timkat celebrations.<br><br>Evening: You'll stroll through the city, experiencing local culture before the tour ends.<br><br>A perfect blend of history, architecture, and culture in Ethiopia’s royal city! Later, you'll go back to your hotel and stay overnight.</p>
D6Gondar Drive To Bahir Dar
Bahir Dar • Blue Nile Resort Hotels
Gondar Drive To Bahir Dar
Bahir Dar • Blue Nile Resort Hotels
<p>Early Morning: You'll enjoy breakfast and drive to Bahir Dar, a scenic journey with beautiful landscapes.<br><br>Upon Arrival: You'll check in and take a refreshing break before starting the tour.<br><br>Afternoon: You will explore Bahir Dar’s highlights, including a city tour and a visit to its vibrant markets.<br><br>Evening: You'll take a boat trip on Lake Tana to visit ancient island monasteries, rich in history and religious art.<br><br>Late Evening: You'll return to the city and relax at your hotel.</p>
D7Visit Bule Nile and Fly To Addis Ababa
Addis Ababa
Visit Bule Nile and Fly To Addis Ababa
Addis Ababa
<p>Morning: You'll visit the stunning Blue Nile Falls, enjoying the breathtaking scenery and a short hike. Blue Nile Falls (Tis Abay) – Known as "Tis Abay" or "The Smoking Water," the Blue Nile Falls is one of Ethiopia’s most breathtaking natural attractions. Located near Bahir Dar, the falls cascade from a height of about 45 meters, creating a misty spectacle surrounded by lush greenery. A short hike offers stunning viewpoints, while a boat ride across the river adds to the adventure. A must-visit for nature lovers and photographers!<br><br>Evening: Upon arrival, you'll take a short break before heading to Yod Abyssinia Cultural Restaurant for a memorable farewell dinner with traditional Ethiopian music and dance.</p>
What's Included
You won't be charged yet
Operators are thoroughly vetted and must maintain active licenses from their country of operations.