How to Plan Your Ethiopian Holiday: 15 Days Trekking to Simen Mountains

Ethiopia is famous for being one of the only African countries never to have been colonized, its unique culture, and stunning landscapes. If you are a lover of nature and adventure, the Simen Mountains is the perfect destination for you. Trekking through these mountains is a great way to unwind as you enjoy breathtaking views of waterfalls and landscapes, the Simen Mountains National Park being a UNESCO world heritage site, preserving endemic animals and plants.

Here’s a guide on how to plan your Ethiopian holiday, 15 days trekking to the Simen Mountains.

Day 1: Arrival in Addis Ababa

Your Ethiopian holiday begins. Upon arrival, you will be met by a tour representative and transferred to your hotel to rest before the tour starts the next day.

Day 2: Addis Ababa City Tour and Flight to Bahir Dar

You’ll start by exploring the fascinating museums, landmarks, and other attractions that Ethiopia’s capital city has to offer. After lunch, you will fly to Bahir Dar, known for Lake Tana and the Blue Nile Falls.

Days 3 to 6: Bahir Dar, Lake Tana, and Gondar

Explore Lake Tana, the source of the Blue Nile, and visit the medieval castles in the city of Gondar. Also, visit and view the wildlife in the Simen Mountains National Park as you trek.

Days 7 to 11: Trekking in the Simen Mountains National Park

The treks during these three days will be approximately 6-9 hours daily. You will take picturesque routes through the mountains, which are home to Gelada monkeys and Walia Ibex. You will camp close to national park service staff who will be assisting and guiding you during the trek.

Days 11 to 12: Axum

Axum was a capital city with historical sites dating back to the Axumite kingdom, and is considered one of the most important historic attractions in Africa.

Days 13 to 15: Lalibela

In Lalibela, the place where the world-famous rock-hewn churches are located, you will get to explore the world heritage sites of the Rose churches.

What’s included:

• 14 nights hotel accommodation
• Domestic flights
• All activities fees
• Trekking gear and camping equipment
• Transportation on an air-conditioned vehicle
• Airport pickup and drop-off
• All entrance fees
• National park fees
• Tour guide services

Meeting and Pickup

• Pickup points: From any place travelers prefer (hotels or guesthouses)
• Start time: 1:00 PM

Cancellation Policy

• You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
• For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
• If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
• Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.

What to Expect

• Confirmation will be received at the time of booking
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Near public transportation
• No serious medical conditions
• Strong physical fitness level required
• Must be physically fit for challenging trekking to the mountains and in very cold weather

Book the Tour Here

If you’re ready to embark on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure and experience Ethiopia’s magic, you can book this amazing 15-day trekking tour at this link. Don’t miss the chance to enjoy nature’s beauty and experience Ethiopia’s rich culture.

Conclusion

Embarking on a journey to the Simen Mountains in Ethiopia is an ideal way to connect with nature, unwind, and discover a unique culture. Plan your trip well in advance by following the given guide and enjoy the natural beauty of the Simen Mountains National Park and other historic sites to create unforgettable memories that will last for generations to come.

Most Frequently Asked Questions About Addis Ababa

Addis Ababa, also known as the “New Flower,” is the capital and largest city of Ethiopia. With a population of over 3 million people, Addis Ababa is one of Africa’s fastest-growing cities. It is located in the mountainous region of Ethiopia and is considered the political and cultural center of the country. If you are planning a trip to Addis Ababa, you might have some questions about the city. In this blog post, we will answer the most frequently asked questions about Addis Ababa.

1. What is the best time to visit Addis Ababa?

The best time to visit Addis Ababa is during the dry season, which is from October to May. During this time, the weather is mild, and you can enjoy sightseeing and outdoor activities without any disruptions. However, if you want to experience the cultural festivities of Ethiopia, visit during the months of January and February. This is when the Timket (Epiphany) and Meskel (Finding of the True Cross) celebrations take place.

2. What is the currency used in Addis Ababa?

The currency used in Addis Ababa is the Ethiopian birr (ETB). As of 2021, one US dollar is equivalent to 41.14 Ethiopian birr. You can exchange your money at banks, exchange bureaus, and hotels. ATMs are also widely available in the city.

3. Is it safe to visit Addis Ababa?

Addis Ababa is a relatively safe city for tourists, but it’s always important to exercise caution, especially at night. Avoid walking alone in poorly lit areas and keep your valuables in a safe place. Be mindful of pickpockets when in crowded places like markets.

4. What are the top tourist attractions in Addis Ababa?

Addis Ababa has a lot of tourist attractions to offer. Here are some of the top attractions you should visit:

• National Museum of Ethiopia

The National Museum of Ethiopia is a world-class museum that houses some of the world’s most significant historical artifacts. Here you can see the remains of “Lucy,” a 3.2 million-year-old hominid, and other fascinating exhibits.

• Holy Trinity Cathedral

The Holy Trinity Cathedral is the most important Orthodox Cathedral in Addis Ababa. It was designed to commemorate Ethiopia’s liberation from Italian occupation and is the final resting place of Emperor Haile Selassie and his wife Empress Menen.

• Mount Entoto

Mount Entoto is the highest peak overlooking Addis Ababa, with an elevation of 3,200 meters. It offers a panoramic view of the city and is a popular spot for hiking and picnicking.

• Addis Mercato

Addis Mercato is a bustling open-air market located in the center of the city. Here you can find everything from traditional Ethiopian clothing to spices and souvenirs.

5. What is the food like in Addis Ababa?

The food in Addis Ababa is a reflection of Ethiopia’s history, culture, and geography. Ethiopian cuisine is characterized by its unique spices, flavorful stews, and injera, a sourdough flatbread used to scoop up food. Some popular Ethiopian dishes include doro wat, a spicy chicken stew, and injera with various vegetables and meats. Vegetarians and vegans will also find many options as Ethiopian cuisine typically includes many vegetable-based dishes.

6. What is the best way to get around Addis Ababa?

The best way to get around Addis Ababa is by taxi. Taxis are abundant and relatively cheap. Be sure to negotiate the price before getting in the taxi; locals pay much less than tourists. If you want to experience the city like a local, take one of the blue mini-buses, but be prepared for a cramped and potentially uncomfortable ride.

Conclusion

Addis Ababa is an exciting and vibrant city that is definitely worth a visit. From its fascinating history to its delicious food and unique culture, there is something for everyone in Addis Ababa. Just remember to pack for the weather, keep your valuables safe, and take advantage of the city’s excellent transportation options. We hope this blog post has helped answer your most pressing questions about Addis Ababa.