Ethiopia · Trekking

6-Day Simien Mountains Trekking Adventure from Gondar with Walia Ibex

6 Days Round trip from North Gondar Debark Moderate pace

The journey

Trip highlights

01 Trek to Gich camp along the northern escarpment via the 530m Jinbar Waterfall
02 Take in spectacular mountain and volcanic views from Imet Gogo cliff
03 Ascend Buwahit Peak with chances to spot endemic Walia Ibex
04 Enjoy a traditional coffee ceremony by the River Insia
05 Swim in the natural pool Derek-Wonz before reaching Mulit camp

Trek through the dramatic Simien Mountains from Gondar, following escarpments, waterfalls, river valleys, and high mountain summits. This 6-day route takes you from Sankaber and Gich to Chennek, Sona, Mekarebia, and Mulit, with opportunities to spot endemic wildlife such as the Walia Ibex. Along the way, experience Giant Lobelia fields, village landscapes, natural swimming spots, and a traditional coffee ceremony before returning to Gondar via scenic mountain roads.

Trek through the dramatic Simien Mountains from Gondar, following escarpments, waterfalls, river valleys, and high mountain summits.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 6 Days

Tour type Shared

Activity level Moderate

Accommodation Included · Standard

Transport Included

Wheelchair access Not applicable

Cities Addis Ababa, Gondar, Simien Mountains National Park, Debarq

Languages Arabic, English, French, German, Spanish

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Gondar, Debarq and Trek to Gich Camp

Drive early from Gondar to Debarq (100 km) to arrange park permits and meet your scout.
Continue to Sankaber for the first short walk, then trek along the northern escarpment to Gich camp.
Enjoy views including the 530m Jinbar Waterfall, with lunch by the river before a 30-minute walk to camp.
Overnight at Gich.

Day 02

Gich to Chennek via Imet Gogo

Trek past Giant Lobelia fields toward Imet Gogo cliff (3,926m) for spectacular mountain and volcanic views.
Descend into Jinbar River Valley, then climb to the 4,070m summit for lunch.
Descend steeply to Chennek camp with panoramic views and possible Walia Ibex sightings.
Overnight at Chennek.

Day 03

Chennek to Sona via Buwahit Peak

Ascend toward Buwahit Peak (4,430m) with scenery and wildlife, including Walia Ibex.
Descend rocky trails along the escarpment to reach Sona village near Imet Gogo with magnificent views.

Overnight at Sona.

Day 04

Sona to Mekarebia through River Valleys

Descend steeply through Sona village toward the River Insia for a refreshing swim.
Enjoy a traditional coffee ceremony by the river.
Continue through lush valleys to Mekarebia camp.

Overnight at Mekarebia.

Day 05

Mekarebia to Mulit with Derek-Wonz

Cross the river multiple times, enjoying birdlife and the natural swimming pool Derek-Wonz.
After lunch and a possible swim, trek to Awasza village and then to Mulit camp on a wide plateau.
Celebrate the last night with a campfire and traditional shoulder dance (Eskista).

Overnight at Mulit.

Day 06

Mulit to Adiarkay and Return to Gondar

Take a short 2-hour walk to Adiarkay town where a jeep awaits.
Option for tea or coffee before the 6-hour scenic drive back to Gondar, passing historic sites like the Italian-built Limalimo road.
Fly back to Addis Ababa, marking the end of the tour.

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from North Gondar Debark 4 cities · 6 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

Transportation throughout the tour
Accommodation (room and meals)
Park entrance fees
Professional guiding services

What's Not Included

Any items or services not mentioned in the inclusions
Personal expenses (souvenirs, laundry, etc.)
Travel insurance
Tips for guides, scouts, and drivers

What to bring

What to Bring for Simien Mountains Trekking:

Warm clothing (nights can be very cold)
Waterproof jacket and pants
Comfortable trekking boots
Sleeping bag (suitable for cold weather)
Gloves, hat, and scarf
Reusable water bottle and water purification tablets
Headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries
Sunscreen, sunglasses, and lip balm
Personal first-aid kit and medications
Snacks or energy bars
Camera or binoculars for wildlife and scenery
Trekking poles (optional but recommended)

Know before you go

Know Before You Go - Simien Mountains Trekking

High altitudes (up to 4,543m) may cause altitude sickness, so acclimatize and pace yourself.
Nights are cold year-round, so pack warm layers.
Trails can be steep and rocky; good fitness and sturdy boots are essential.
Mobile network is limited, so expect minimal connectivity.
All treks require a park scout for safety.
Weather can change quickly, so carry rain gear.

Logistics