How to Plan Your 12-Day Trekking Tour in Simien Mountain & Around Lalibela

Are you someone who loves adventure and nature? Then the 12-day trekking tour in Simien Mountain and around Lalibela might be perfect for you. This incredible tour is offered by Walk In Ethiopia Tour and Travel, and it is designed to provide a breathtaking experience. The tour covers 12 days of trekking and exploring the beauty of nature in Ethiopia. Here is a complete guide on how to plan your trip:

Overview

The 12-day trekking tour in Simien Mountain and around Lalibela is an amazing adventure that starts and ends in Addis Ababa. The tour takes you through the magnificent Simien Mountains where you can spot the Ethiopian wolf and Gelada baboons among other unique wildlife species. You also get to visit various monasteries and churches in Lalibela, the “New Jerusalem” of Ethiopia.

What’s Included

The tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle, all entry admission fees, a professional guide, and personal interests. However, alcoholic drinks, camera and photography fees are not included.

Meeting and Pickup

Upon arriving in Addis Ababa, you can head directly to the meeting point in Bole or request pickup at the Bole Airport. The tour operator offers pickup services from any place convenient for you. The tour starts at 06:00 AM and ends back at the meeting point.

What to Expect

The trekking tour in Simien Mountain covers approximately 85 kilometers and reaches an altitude of 4,550 meters. It is recommended for travelers who have a strong physical fitness level. You can expect to see the stunning views of the Simien Mountains, home to unique fauna and vegetation. The tour also includes visits to different churches and monasteries in Lalibela, where you can see the rock-hewn churches that are over 800 years old.

Additional Info

Before booking the tour, please note that it is not recommended for pregnant travelers and is not wheelchair accessible. The tour operator offers a full refund if you cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience. Also, take note that this tour has a maximum of 20 travelers, and it is operated by Walk In Ethiopia Tour and Travel.

Itinerary

Here is a brief summary of the itinerary for the 12-day trekking tour in Simien Mountain and around Lalibela:

Day 1: Arrival in Addis Ababa
Day 2: Drive to Debark and Simien Mountains National Park
Day 3-7: Trekking in Simien Mountains National Park
Day 8-9: Visit Gondar and drive to Lalibela
Day 10-12: Visit the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela

What to Pack

To fully enjoy the tour, you need to pack appropriately. Here are some of the essentials to include:

– Comfortable hiking boots
– Warm clothing, including a raincoat and gloves
– Sunscreen and a hat for sun protection
– Insect repellent
– Personal hygiene items
– Medication, including altitude sickness medication

Cost and Booking

The cost of the 12-day trekking tour in Simien Mountain and around Lalibela varies depending on the time of year you choose to travel. You can book the tour online through Viator, using the following link: book the tour here. This link takes you directly to the booking page where you provide your details and make your payment.

Conclusion

Planning your 12-day trekking tour in Simien Mountain and around Lalibela should now be a breeze. With this guide, you have a better understanding of what the tour entails, what to expect, what to pack, and how to book it. Take a trip to Ethiopia and experience nature at its finest!

An Insider’s Guide to Lalibela, Ethiopia

Located in the Amhara region of Ethiopia, Lalibela is a small town that is rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. It is home to the famous rock-hewn churches, a UNESCO World Heritage site that attracts thousands of tourists every year. This insider’s guide will help you plan your visit to Lalibela and explore the town’s many attractions and hidden gems.

Historical and Cultural Attractions

The rock-hewn churches of Lalibela are the main attraction for many visitors to the town. Carved out of solid rock in the 12th century, these 11 churches are a testament to the architectural and engineering prowess of the ancient Ethiopian civilization. The churches are still actively used for worship today and are a unique and awe-inspiring sight.

In addition to the churches, Lalibela is home to several other historical and cultural attractions. The Lalibela Museum is a great place to learn about the history of the town and the ancient Ethiopian civilization. The Yemrehanna Kristos Church, located about 45 minutes from Lalibela, is another must-visit attraction. This 11th-century church is built into a cave and features unique architectural elements and stunning frescoes.

Dining and Nightlife

Lalibela may be a small town, but it has a vibrant food and nightlife scene. There are several restaurants in town that serve authentic Ethiopian cuisine, including the popular Ben Abeba restaurant. This restaurant offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside and serves traditional Ethiopian dishes with a modern twist.

For nightlife, there are several bars and music venues in Lalibela that offer a fun and lively atmosphere. The Torpido Club is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, with live music and dancing every night.

Natural Beauty and Outdoor Activities

Lalibela is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, with the nearby Simien Mountains offering some of the best trekking opportunities in Ethiopia. A 12-day trekking tour of the Simien Mountains is a great way to experience the beauty of this region and get some exercise at the same time.

For a more leisurely outdoor activity, head to the Asheton Maryam Monastery. This stunning monastery is perched on a hilltop overlooking Lalibela and offers stunning views of the town and surrounding countryside.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For an off-the-beaten-path experience in Lalibela, head to the nearby town of Bilbala. This small town is home to some of the best coffee in Ethiopia, and a visit to a local coffee farm is a great way to learn about the coffee-making process and try some delicious Ethiopian coffee.

Another hidden gem in Lalibela is the Tukul Village. This traditional village is home to several families who still live a traditional way of life, and a visit to the village is a great way to learn about Ethiopian culture and customs.

Conclusion

Lalibela is a truly special place, with rich historical and cultural attractions, stunning natural beauty, and a lively food and nightlife scene. Whether you are interested in history, culture, or outdoor activities, there is something for everyone in this town. We hope this insider’s guide has helped you plan your visit to Lalibela and discover all the amazing things this town has to offer.